Traveling by train in India is an experience in itself—sometimes exciting, sometimes stressful, especially when tickets are hard to get. If you’ve ever tried booking a ticket only to find all the berths are already taken, you might have come across the term RAC. Let’s break down what RAC means, how it works, and why it’s a smart choice for many travelers.
What is RAC?
RAC stands for Reservation Against Cancellation. It’s a special ticketing option offered by Indian Railways that lets you travel even when all seats are booked. While it doesn’t guarantee a full berth at the time of booking, it does ensure you won’t be left behind.
How Does RAC Work?
- Earlier System:
- Two RAC passengers shared one side-lower berth.
- If someone with a confirmed ticket cancelled, one RAC passenger would get the full berth.
- Two RAC passengers shared one side-lower berth.
- New Update:
- Now, every RAC passenger gets a separate seat.
- No more sharing—travel is more comfortable and convenient.
- Now, every RAC passenger gets a separate seat.
Why Choose RAC?
- Guaranteed Journey:
You are allowed to board the train, unlike waitlisted passengers. - Chance of Upgrade:
If confirmed berths become available (due to cancellations), you might get a full berth. - Peace of Mind:
Perfect for urgent or last-minute travel plans.
RAC Ticket Allocation at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| RAC Quota per Coach | 12 to 14 seats (varies by coach type) |
| Side-Lower Berths | 6-7 per coach reserved for RAC |
| Upgrade Possibility | Real-time updates as berths free up |
| Sharing | No longer required (new rule) |
What Happens If You Cancel RAC?
- Cancellation:
You can cancel your RAC ticket for a small fee. - Refunds:
Refunds are processed as per IRCTC rules. - Upgrade:
If you’re upgraded to a full berth before or during your journey, you get the full benefit at no extra cost.
Key Benefits of RAC Tickets
- Boarding is Guaranteed:
You’re never denied travel, unlike waitlisted passengers. - Possible Upgrade:
Many RAC travelers get upgraded automatically. - Flexible Backup:
RAC is a reliable option when trains are full.
Limitations to Remember
- No Full Berth Guarantee:
Unless upgraded, you may have a seat but not a full sleeping berth. - Same Fare as Confirmed Tickets:
No discount for RAC status. - Cancellation Rules Apply:
Refunds and changes follow standard IRCTC policies.
