Traveling by rail is considered the most comfortable. But the level of convenience directly depends on the purchased seat, or rather its class of service. Reserved seat, coupe, SV are not just words, but a definition of the quality of the purchased seat and a set of additional conditions. The more expensive the ticket, the higher the class of service.
Before purchasing a travel document, it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the existing classification. This will help you decide whether to purchase a particular place.
Services in different types of wagons
| Car type | Service class | What services are available | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Luxury carriages | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Luxury 2-seater compartments Sold only as a whole compartment for 1-2 passengers | 1A (4 compartments and bar) 1I (5 compartments) 1M (6 compartments) | Air conditioning in the compartment Dry toilet in the compartment Washbasin in the compartment Shower in the compartment Meal set Sanitary and hygienic set Press Bed linen Access to the Portal "Fellow Traveler" Small animals can be transported Large dogs cannot be transported | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SV cars | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SV 2-seater compartments with places to lie down | 1B 1E | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Meal set Sanitary and hygienic set Press Bed linen Access to the “Fellow Traveler” portal Small animals or one large dog can be transported. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1T | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Meal set Sanitary and hygiene kit Press Bed linen Access to the “Fellow Traveler” portal Pets cannot be transported | 1U | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Bed linen Small animals or one large dog can be transported | 1L | Air conditioning in the carriage Bed linen No dry toilet in the carriage Small animals or one large dog can be transported | 1D (tourist) | Air conditioning in the carriage Bed linen No dry toilet in the carriage Animals cannot be transported | 1X | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Bed linen Access to the “Fellow Traveler” portal Pets cannot be transported | 1F | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Bed linen Access to the “Companion Traveler” portal Pets can be transported | Train "Strizh" | 1E (with mandatory redemption of all seats | Air conditioning in the compartment Dry toilet in the compartment Washbasin in the compartment Shower in the compartment TV Meal set Sanitary and hygienic set Bed linen Access to the portal “Fellow Traveler” Small animals can be transported Large dogs cannot be transported | 1E | 1T | Air conditioning in the compartment Dry toilet in the compartment Washbasin in the compartment Shower in the compartment TV Meal set Sanitary and hygiene set Bed linen Access to the “Fellow Traveler” portal Pets cannot be transported | Compartment cars (K) | Compartment 4-seater compartments with places to lie down | 2E | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Meal set Sanitary and hygienic set (not provided on trains No. 005A/006A St. Petersburg - Moscow; No. 024M/023G Moscow - Kazan) Press (except for trains No. 025A/026A St. Petersburg - Moscow; No. 101YA/102YA, 103YA/104YA, 105YA/106YA Yaroslavl - Moscow) Bed linen Access to the “Helper Traveler” portal Small animals and one large dog can be transported | 2T | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Meals Sanitary and hygiene kit (not provided on trains No. 005A/006A St. Petersburg - Moscow; No. 024M/023G Moscow - Kazan) Press (not provided on trains No. 025A/026A St. Petersburg - Moscow; No. 101Ya/102Ya, 103Ya/104Ya, 105Ya/106Ya Yaroslavl - Moscow Bed linen Access to the portal “Fellow Traveler” Animals cannot be transported | 2B | Air conditioning in the carriage Meals set Sanitary and hygiene kit Press Bed linen Access to the portal “Fellow Traveler” No dry closet in the carriage Small animals and one large dog can be transported | 2K | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Bed linen Small animals and large dogs (more than one) can be transported | 2U | Air conditioning in the carriage Bed linen No dry toilet in the carriage Small animals and large dogs (more than one) can be transported | 2F | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Bed linen Sanitary kit Press (press and travel kit are not provided on trains No. 009И/010И Samara-Moscow; No. 026Г/025Г Izhevsk - Moscow; No. 050И/049И Moscow - Samara; No. 745В/746Ж Belgorod – Moscow) Access to the portal “Helper Traveler” Animals can be transported | 2X | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Bed linen Sanitary kit Press (press and travel kit are not provided on trains No. 009И/010И Samara - Moscow; No. 026Г/025Г Izhevsk - Moscow; No. 050И/049И Moscow - Samara, No. 745В/746Ж Belgorod – Moscow) Access to the portal “Fellow Traveler” | 2C | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Bed linen Sanitary and hygiene kit Press Access to the “Fellow Traveler” portal Pets can be transported | 2H | Dry toilet in the compartment Bed linen No air conditioning in the compartment Small animals and large dogs (more than one) can be transported | 2L | Bed linen No air conditioning in the compartment No dry closet in the compartment Small animals and large dogs (more than one) can be transported | 2D (tourist) | Bed linen No air conditioning in the compartment No dry closet in the compartment No pets allowed | Second-class carriages (P) | Open-type reserved seat carriage with sleeping places | 3E | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Animals cannot be transported | 3T | Air conditioning in the carriage No dry toilet in the carriage Animals cannot be transported | 3D | Air conditioning in the carriage No dry toilet in the carriage Small animals can be transported Large dogs cannot be transported | 3U | No air conditioning in the carriage No dry toilet in the carriage Animals can be transported | 3L | No air conditioning in the carriage No dry toilet in the carriage Animals cannot be transported | 3B | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Pets can be transported | 3P | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Animals cannot be transported | Cars with seats (C) | A carriage with seats with an improved layout of seats | 1Р For trains: No. 101Ya/102Ya, 103Ya/104Ya, 105Ya/106Ya Yaroslavl – Moscow; No. 737В/738А/ 739А/740А/741В/742В Bryansk – Moscow; No. 744Х/743В Belgorod – Moscow. | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Meal set Sanitary and hygienic set Blanket Access to the “Fellow Traveler” portal Animals cannot be transported | 1J | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Meal set Sanitary and hygiene kit Blanket Access to the “Fellow Traveler” portal Pets can be transported | 1Р (Strizh train) On trains No. 702N/703N, No. 704N/705N, No. 706N/707N, No. 708N/709N, No. 710N/701N Moscow – Nizhny Novgorod | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Meal set Sanitary and hygiene kit Access to the portal “Fellow Traveler” Animals cannot be transported | 1Р (double-decker trains) On trains: No. 740Zh/739Zh Moscow – Voronezh; No. 737Zh/738Zh Voronezh - Moscow. | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Meal set Sanitary and hygiene kit Press Blanket Access to the portal “Fellow Traveler” Animals cannot be transported | 1B (with individual placement and mandatory redemption of all places) | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Meal set Sanitary and hygiene kit Press Blanket Access to the portal “Fellow Traveler” Animals can be transported | 2P | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Sanitary and hygiene kit (not provided on trains: No. 737В/738А/739А/740А/741В/742В Bryansk - Moscow; No. 740Zh/739Zh Moscow - Voronezh; No. 702Н/703Н, 704Н/705Н, 706Н /707N, 708N/709N, 710N/701N Moscow - Nizhny Novgorod; No. 737Zh/738Zh Voronezh - Moscow; No. 745V/746Zh Belgorod-Moscow; No. 744Zh/743V Belgorod-Moscow) Access to the portal “Helper Traveler” Animals cannot be transported | 2C | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Animals cannot be transported | 2G | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Small animals can be transported Large dogs cannot be transported | 2B | Air conditioning in the carriage No dry toilet in the carriage Small animals can be transported Large dogs cannot be transported | 2E | Air conditioning in the carriage No dry toilet in the carriage Animals cannot be transported | 3G | No air conditioning in the carriage No dry toilet in the carriage Small animals can be transported Large dogs cannot be transported | 3C | No air conditioning in the carriage No dry toilet in the carriage Animals cannot be transported | Motorized rolling stock | A carriage with seats with an improved layout of seats | 1C | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Animals cannot be transported | 1Р For trains: No. 719М/720М Moscow – Orel; No. 721Ch/724M Moscow – Kursk; No. 723M/722M Moscow – Kursk; No. 725M/726M Moscow – Orel. | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Meal set Sanitary and hygiene kit Animals cannot be transported | A car with standard seating | 2C | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Animals cannot be transported | 2G | Air conditioning in the carriage Dry toilet in the carriage Small animals can be transported Large dogs cannot be transported | 2B | Air conditioning in the carriage No dry toilet in the carriage Small animals can be transported Large dogs cannot be transported | 2E | Air conditioning in the carriage No dry toilet in the carriage Animals cannot be transported | 2M | No air conditioning in the carriage No dry toilet in the carriage Animals cannot be transported | 3G | No air conditioning in the carriage No dry toilet in the carriage Small animals can be transported Large dogs cannot be transported | 3C | No air conditioning in the carriage No dry toilet in the carriage Animals cannot be transported | General carriages | General open carriage with seating | 3O | No air conditioning in the carriage No dry toilet in the carriage Small animals can be transported Large dogs cannot be transported | 3B | No air conditioning in the carriage No dry toilet in the carriage Animals cannot be transported | |||||||||||
Useful tips and life hacks for traveling by train
These recommendations will help make your trip more comfortable, regardless of which places you choose:
- Many modern people prefer to take laptops and tablets on the road. And you also have to charge your phone often. It is important to know that in in the reserved seat carriage there are sockets in the second (5-8 seats) and in the eighth compartment (29-32), and near the side shelves 41 and 49. This is also important to consider if you plan to work on a laptop while on the road. In the compartments there are sockets in the corridor around compartments 3 and 7. If you choose a luxury coupe, you won't have to worry. In such carriages there are usually sockets in each compartment.
- You were unable to purchase a ticket for a seat located near the outlet? a tee with you . Then you can safely charge your gadgets without getting into conflicts with your neighbors. A surge protector equipped with an extension cord will help protect against voltage surges.
- The conductor is obliged to do the laundry himself for elderly people, people with disabilities and pregnant women, without requiring a separate payment for this. You can feel free to ask for this little service if you fall into one of the listed categories.
- Many people know that the ticket can be returned. If you return it no later than 8 hours before departure, a full refund will be given. The closer to departure you are forced to return your ticket, the less money you will get back. You can even return a ticket for a train that has already departed. True, in this case you will only be compensated for the cost of the ticket, but not the price of a seat in a reserved seat. Of course, this amount is relatively small - usually about 30-40% of the total cost.
You can return your ticket even if you missed the train - within 12 hours from the moment of departure - If you arrive at the station in the last minutes before the train departs, you have the right to enter any carriage. True, this rule only applies if you have a ticket purchased at the box office or printed in a special terminal. If you have completed electronic registration, then it is better not to be late for the train: the conductor will only let you into the carriage in which you bought a seat.
- The passenger is not required to return laundry at the end of the trip. Therefore, you may well refuse to comply with the conductor’s request, which is usually made half an hour before the train arrives at its destination.
- Many people do not know that they have the right to use the toilet in the station building for free if they have a train travel document . According to the rules, you can use the toilet no earlier than two hours before the train departs, but usually only the date stamped on the ticket is taken into account .
- A glass with a cup holder and a spoon in reserved seat carriages are provided free of charge. If the conductor asks you to buy something for tea in exchange for giving out the dishes, you can threaten to report this to the train captain. You can also ask for a sewing kit and a first aid kit free of charge.
Classes of service and services in seated carriages
In seated carriages, each passenger has a separate seat, for which a ticket is purchased. The layout of the cars may differ: seated cars include both Sapsan and Swift trains, as well as trains that run around the region or between neighboring cities.
1C, 2C, 3C
These types of cars are found on various trains, and each has its own nuances. What is included in the range of services depends on the specific train. Typically, 1st and 2nd class carriages are equipped with air conditioning, but 3rd class carriages do not have air conditioning.
In Sapsan 1C there is a business class carriage. Each passenger has a chair, a table, and a closet for things. Sockets are installed next to each block of seats so that you can connect a laptop or charge your phone. Passengers can purchase the latest newspapers or choose a hot meal from the menu.
There are 2C cars in Sapsan and Strizh. These are second class carriages, which means tickets there are cheaper. Sapsan passengers have access to clothes hangers and space for luggage. There are places next to the table and without it.
1Р
This is usually how seats in a compartment in a seated carriage of a double-decker train are designated. The ticket price most often includes food, newspapers and a hygiene kit.
1B
This is a carriage with individual seating, that is, when you buy a ticket, you buy all the seats. The ticket price includes food, newspapers and a kit with a toothbrush, toothpaste and napkins.
2P
This is how seats in a luxury carriage are designated. Cold snacks are included in the ticket price.
2V, 2Zh
Regular seating. Such carriages have fewer amenities, for example, they may not have air conditioning, and the ticket price does not include any additional services such as meals or hygiene kit. However, animals are allowed to be transported in these carriages.
2E
Ordinary seated carriage. There is air conditioning, but there may not be a dry closet.
Types and categories of Russian Railways passenger cars with explanation: what is included?
Trains are equipped with wagons depending on the duration of the journey. Suburban trains have only seats. And long-distance trains can have reserved seats, compartments, and first-class seats at the same time. The class of railway tickets varies within the same type of carriage.
Russian Railways has the following types:
- Kupeyny - K. There are 4 sleeping places in one compartment.
- Reservation seat - P. A sleeping car differs from a compartment in the absence of doors.
- Sedentary - S. The carriage has comfortable seating.
- General sedentary – O. A carriage with open seats.
- SV – L . Coupe for 2 people.
- Luxury (RIC) – M. 2-seater compartment with separate bathroom.
Each type has subclasses that directly depend on the type of train.
Passengers do not always have a choice between several classes. Some trains are equipped with only one class, others provide different conditions and services.
Coupe - 2E, 2T, 2B, 2K, 2U, 2F, 2X, 2C, 2N, 2L, 2D
According to Russian Railways statistics, the largest number of tickets are purchased by passengers in compartments. The popularity of compartment trains is understandable. These places are a good combination of value and comfort. The passenger travels in a separate block for 4 people, which makes his journey more convenient and enjoyable.
The compartment carriage can accommodate 32-36 people. The numbering of seats is done in such a way that all odd numbers are at the bottom and even numbers are at the top. The insulated compartment has:
- Door with a lock that can be closed from the inside.
- Large mirror.
- Places to place suitcases.
- Hangers for outerwear.
- Individual night lights.
Compartment cars are single-decker and double-decker.
The difference is the presence of a third luggage rack. It only has two-story compartments. There are 11 classes in compartment cars. They all differ from each other in terms of comfort and the availability of free services. What do 2E, 2T, 2U and other categories in a compartment mean:
- 2F is equipped with air conditioning and a dry closet. The ticket price includes food, drinks, newspapers and bed linen. In double-decker carriages, the traveler's kit (food and drinks) and newspapers are not included in the price.
- 2T is identical in range of services to 2E.
- 2B is always air conditioned, but does not always have a dry closet. Passengers receive a standard package of food, drinks, newspapers and bed linen free of charge.
- 2K – air conditioning and dry closet. Free bed linen.
- 2U is similar to 2K, but there is not always a dry closet.
- 2F, 2X and 2C provide passengers with fresh air and a dry closet. Single-story compartments provide free food, drinks, and newspapers. This is not the case in the two-story building. But a set of linen is given to everyone, regardless of the number of floors in the compartment.
- 2N, 2L and 2D (going abroad) may or may not have air conditioning and a dry closet. Travelers are provided with free underwear.
In classes 2T, 2X and 2D it is prohibited to transport animals, in the rest it is allowed.
Now you know what is included in compartment cars 2E, 2T, 2U and others.
Reserved seat - 3E, 3B, 3T, 3D, 3U, 3L, 3P
A reserved seat carriage is the cheapest option for sleeping accommodations. There are no doors separating the blocks, resulting in more space. There are 9 blocks in the reserved seat, each of which includes 2 lower, 2 upper and 2 side places. Standard “fours” are combined with “side buildings” by a common corridor. The lower shelves are odd numbered, and the upper shelves are even numbered.
The numbering is distributed as follows:
- From 1st to 36th place - “compartment fours”.
- From 37 to 54 - “sides”.
The last block - 33-38 seats, is located near the toilet, which creates additional discomfort.
A reserved seat always has a third luggage rack, which is convenient for placing suitcases, but uncomfortable for passengers in upper berths. Reservation tickets do not include free services, as this is an economy class level. Russian Railways carriages vary in comfort depending on the class and here are their designations:
- 3E and 3B in the reserved seat carriage have air conditioning and a dry closet.
- 3T and 3D in a reserved seat carriage are always with air conditioning, but not always with a dry closet.
- 3U and 3L may or may not have air conditioning and a dry closet.
- 3P are designed for transporting children in groups. They are always equipped with air conditioning and a dry closet.
Air conditioning only works in summer. In classes 3B, 3D and 3U you can bring animals.
With seats - 1R, 1Zh, 2R, 2C, 2Zh, 2B, 2E, 3Zh, 3C
Seat carriages are divided into first, second and third classes . In first class, the seats are arranged in three rows. Each chair can be reclined to a reclining level, which allows you to relax comfortably on the go. The maximum number of seats is 48. The carriage has air conditioning, a dry closet, and often a TV.
- First class tickets may be marked 1P and 1J. In this case, 1P can be one-story or two-story. Standard 1P provides free cold snacks and drinks, as well as blankets if necessary. The two-story 1R and 1Zh, in addition to the above, also provides free press. Transportation of animals is possible only in 1Zh (this is what this category “F” means in a Russian Railways carriage).
- Second and third class are less comfortable. Such carriages have more seats - up to 68, which means less free space. The seats are arranged in four rows; the back of the seats often has folding plastic tables, which allows you to place food and drinks. Cars of this type may not have air conditioning equipment.
Within the second and third classes, services are divided into the following blocks:
- 2P – the traveler’s kit is included in the ticket. The carriage has air conditioning equipment and a dry closet.
- 2C and 2Zh - there is an air conditioner and a dry closet.
- 2B and 2E are equipped with an air conditioning system, but are not always equipped with a dry closet.
- 3Zh and 3C may not have either an air conditioning system or special biological toilets.
In seated carriages of classes 2Zh, 2B and 3Zh you can transport cats, dogs and other domestic animals.
With seats (electric trains) - 1С, 2С, 2Ж, 2В, 2М, 3Ж, 3С
Electric trains differ from standard commuter trains in that they use power lines rather than diesel fuel for transportation. Otherwise, it is the same seating carriage with first, second and third class seats. First class is considered the most comfortable, as it has fewer seats, wider aisles and more space for relaxation.
Electric trains include electric trains and Lastochka trains.
The alphanumeric combination has the following distinctive characteristics:
- In 1C, 2C and 2Zh there is air conditioning and a dry closet is installed.
- In 2B there is always an air conditioning system, but the toilet is not always equipped with a biotank.
- In 2M, 3Zh and 3C, air conditioning and a biotank are not a mandatory attribute, but are sometimes available.
Animals are allowed in 2Zh, 2B and 3Zh.
Luxury (SV) and RIC - 1B, 1E, 1U, 1T, 1L, 1D, 1X, 1F
Luxury and RIC cars are radically different from all of the above. This is a special level of comfort, where compartments have only two seats, and there are simply no overhead bunks. The luxury car, or as it used to be called SV (sleeping car), has from 8 to 10 closed blocks.
There are two types of suites:
- Sleeping shelves with increased softness.
- Sofas with soft backs.
Suites feature not only a reduced number of seats, but also additional benefits. Each compartment has an air conditioning system and a button to call the conductor. The new trains are, among other things, equipped with televisions.
RIC differs from luxury in that it travels abroad, and not within the country. This fact has a positive effect on the level of comfort and is expressed by even more comfortable sleeping sofas and other related services.
Luxury and RIC carriages are divided into the following classes:
- 1B and 1E include food and drinks, newspapers and magazines, and superior bed linen in the ticket price. 1B differs only in that 2 seats are purchased by one passenger.
- In 1U, 1L, 1X, 1F, bed linen is provided free of charge. At the same time, a dry closet is not always provided in 1L.
- 1T provides free travel kits, newspapers and underwear.
- 1D is intended for traveling abroad. Doesn't always have bio tanks in bathrooms. Only linen is provided free of charge, the rest must be purchased separately.
If there are animals, you should choose 1B, 1E, 1U, 1L and 1F.
Soft - 1A, 1I, 1M
A soft carriage is the highest level of travel , comparable to a small hotel room. Traveling in a soft carriage is comfortable in all respects. Coupes can have one or two seats. Moreover, one of them is located on the first tier, and the second on the top. The lower berth looks like a sofa. It can be unfolded to create a bed 1.2 m wide. The top shelf is 90 cm. In addition to this, there is a table, an easy chair, a TV and even a minibar.
Passengers of the soft carriage not only receive a free hot meal, but also have the opportunity to take a shower. Along with the linen set, they receive a disposable wash kit, a large towel and a bathrobe. Soft cars differ solely in the size of individual blocks:
- In 1A there are 4 compartments and a bar where you can buy cold snacks and drinks.
- in 1I .
- There are 6 compartments in 1M
Each compartment has air conditioning, a personal dry closet, washbasin and shower. Pets are allowed.
General - 3O, 3B
The general term is a reserved seat car, which temporarily or permanently serves as a seater. Its main difference is that the upper seats are not used, but the lower seats are used for sitting. Moreover, each berth is intended for three seated passengers. There are also people on the lower side shelves.
In general there are two classes:
- 3О – the seats are indicated on the tickets. Animals are allowed in this class.
- 3B – there are no numbering places, you can take any free place.
Such compounds do not always have air conditioning systems and bio-tanks in the bathrooms.
"Sapsan"
“Sapsan” is a highly comfortable train that, when moving, reaches a maximum speed of 250 km/h. Sapsan has one route from Moscow to St. Petersburg and back. Due to its high speed, it covers the distance between the two capitals in just 4 hours, which is twice as fast as a standard train. All Sapsan carriages are equipped with air conditioning systems, and the toilets are equipped with bio-tank.
The high-speed train offers five ticket prices:
- 1P means that there are 4 seats per compartment. A separate block is equipped with two TVs and a minibar.
- 1B offers increased comfort seating in a common carriage. The position of the leather seats is adjusted using the remote control. Near each seat there is a charging socket and a lamp for comfortable reading and a separate screen for watching entertainment programs or movies.
- 1C – business class. It differs from 1B in that it is equipped with a common video broadcaster for all.
- 2B and 2C belong to the economy level. In both versions, the seat backs are adjustable. 2B has more legroom, and 2C has special stands to prevent your legs from getting tired. There are sockets between the seats only in 2B. Free food is also provided there, which is not included in the 2C service package.
- 2E – bistro car. Seating is arranged in open blocks of 4 around one table. There are 10 blocks in total in the car. When purchasing a ticket for a bistro car, a passenger gets the opportunity to order any dishes from the available menu for free in the amount of 2,000 rubles.
First class (1P, 1B, 1C) provides passengers with free food, newspapers and Wi-Fi. Animals can travel in 1P, 1B, 1C, as well as in 2C, but only in carriages No. 3 and No. 13.
"Swift"
The "Strizh" train is a train moving at high speed. Today it runs in two directions:
- Moscow – Nizhny Novgorod and back.
- Moscow – Berlin and back.
The composition is characterized by increased comfort. It has places of several classes:
- 1P – 1 class with 20 seats. Passengers are provided with a set of food and drinks.
- 2C – 2nd class with 36 seats.
- 1E and 1E – soft berths, distributed 2 pieces in separate compartments. The shelves are located one above the other. In 1E, every traveler is given hot drinks and food for free. In compartment 1E there is a separate toilet, shower, washbasin, as well as sockets and a safe. Meals are provided free of charge twice.
All carriages are equipped with air conditioning systems and dry closets. Pets are allowed to be transported only in 1F and 1E.
Classes of service and reserved seat services
Cars of this type are usually designated by the number 3, as third class. In reserved seat carriages, passengers have access to lying areas. A standard carriage has 52 or 54 shelves.
3D
This carriage has air conditioning, and the availability of a dry closet depends on the carrier. Animals can be transported.
3L
There will definitely be no air conditioning or dry closet in these carriages. Animals cannot be transported.
3T
The carriage has air conditioning, the presence of a dry closet depends on the carrier - it may not be there. Animals cannot be transported.
3U
As a rule, there is no air conditioning or dry closet. Animals can be transported.
If the carriage belongs to the carrier ZAO TKS, then the carriage is equipped with air conditioning and dry closets, and passengers are provided with an amenity kit. There are sockets in each compartment.
3E
These carriages have both air conditioning and a dry closet. Animals cannot be transported.
Differences between cars by markings
The marking of the carriage indicates the class of service, this is very important. It is designated by a number and a letter, for example, 2T or 2E.
Table of differences between compartment cars:
| Class | comfort | free services |
| 2 E | air conditioner | food and drinks |
| dry closet | travel kit (except double-decker) | |
| press (except for 2-story ones) | ||
| bed sheets | ||
| 2 T | air conditioning | food and drinks |
| dry closet | road set (except 2-story) | |
| press (except for 2-story ones) | ||
| bed sheets | ||
| 2 B | air conditioner | food and drinks |
| there may not be a dry closet | travel set | |
| press | ||
| bed | ||
| 2 K | air conditioner | bed |
| bio toilet | ||
| 2 U | air conditioner | bed |
| there may not be a dry closet | ||
| 2 F | air conditioning | road set (except 2-story) |
| bio toilet | press (except for two-story ones) | |
| bed sheets | ||
| 2 X | air conditioner | travel kit (except double-decker) |
| bio toilet | press (in addition to two-story ones) | |
| bed | ||
| 2 C | air conditioned | road set (except 2-story) |
| dry closet | press (in addition to 2-story ones) | |
| bed | ||
| 2 N | there may not be air conditioning | bed |
| dry closet | ||
| 2 L | there may be no air conditioner or dry closet | bed sheets |
| 2 D | there may be no air conditioner or dry closet | bed sheets |
Transportation of animals is allowed in cars: 2E, 2B, 2K, 2U, 2F, 2C, 2L, 2N.
Thus, markings 2T and 2E differ only in the possibility of transporting animals: in 2T it is impossible.
Classes of service and services in the compartment
In compartment cars, passengers are provided with closed compartments, each with 4 shelves. Typically, such carriages have from 32 to 40 seats. They are standardly marked with the number 2, that is, second class. The ticket price always includes bed linen, but in 2D carriages you can refuse it when purchasing (you need to uncheck the automatically checked box).
2E
Luxury carriages with air conditioning. There is not always a dry toilet. The ticket price includes food, newspapers and a hygiene kit. Pets can be transported.
2B
Luxury carriages with air conditioning. There is not always a dry toilet. The ticket price includes food, newspapers and a hygiene kit. Pets can be transported.
2K
The carriage has air conditioning and a dry closet. Additional services are not included in the ticket price. Animals can be transported.
2U
The carriage has air conditioning, but there may not be a dry closet (depending on the carrier). Additional services are paid. Animals can be transported.
2L
Availability of air conditioning and dry closet depends on the carrier. All additional services are paid. Animals can be transported.
2D
Availability of air conditioning and dry closet is not guaranteed. Additional services are not included in the ticket price. Animals cannot be transported.
2T
The carriages have a high level of comfort: there is a dry toilet and air conditioning, passengers are offered breakfast or dinner, a hygiene kit, slippers, and newspapers. Children are given gifts. The compartment has a TV, individual sockets and a safe. Animals cannot be transported.
Soft luxury carriages
Soft cars are improved CB cars. They contain 4-6 double compartments. They are very comfortable. There are several types of such cars.
| Class | Description |
| 1A | The carriage has 4 compartments and 1 lounge bar. The coupe is for sale in its entirety. It can carry a maximum of 1-2 adults and one child under 10 years old (when boarding you will need to show documents confirming the age of the minor). You can carry a pet with your ticket. The compartment contains:
The ticket price includes food, newspapers and drinks. Food is provided for all people actually traveling in the compartment. |
| 1I | The carriage is similar to Class 1A carriages, but there is no lounge bar. Instead of a bar, there is a compartment at number 5. |
| 1M | The carriage has 6 compartments and no bar. |
| 1G | Soft carriages on international trains (not to Finland). Each carriage has 4-6 double compartments. If a coupe is purchased by one adult, then 2 children under 12 years of age can travel with him free of charge. If two adults are traveling in a compartment, travel will be free for only one minor. |
Externally, these compartments resemble a hotel room. All items in them are made from environmentally friendly materials.
RIC class cars
RIC is a class of service on international Russian Railways trains that run from Moscow to various countries around the world. They are divided into several double or triple compartments. These compartments have a washbasin and an armchair. In terms of conditions, they are similar to luxury coupes. In RIC class compartments there is always a button to call the conductor.
Classes of service and services in SV
SV or Lux cars are distinguished by a higher level of comfort: there are only two seats in the compartment, soft shelves for lying on. The carriage has from 16 to 20 seats. The carriage always has air conditioning. The number 1 means that these are first class carriages.
1B
Business Class. You need to buy the entire compartment, it contains one adult passenger. You can bring small pets with you. The ticket price includes drinks, food, newspapers, and hygiene kit.
1E
The conditions are similar to carriages 1B, but you don’t have to buy a whole compartment, but buy one seat.
1U
The level of comfort corresponds to first class, but additional services are not included in the ticket (you must pay for them separately). Animals can be transported.
How to report allergies and intolerances?
The carrier menu has several options.
These include vegetarian and dietary options, as well as food that meets religious requirements.
All dishes from these menus are presented on the Russian Railways website with their full descriptions and photographs.
You can specify the type of menu you select in the passenger profile created on the website.
To do this, the passenger's travel ticket number is indicated next to the selected meal option.
Registration of travel documents for compartment carriages
A ticket for a long-distance train compartment can be purchased:
- On the carrier's website.
- In intermediary organizations.
- At the railway station ticket office.
In any of the above cases, the citizen will be required to provide an identification document.
Police
Transport police officers are patrolling the train. They can be either in uniform or in civilian clothes. The police have the right to check your documents and inspect your belongings. Always politely ask to see identification, remember the employee’s title and full name. If the police insist on a search, ask for witnesses (usually a conductor) and a search report. Communicate politely, but confidently and positively. If you are searched, they will most likely force you to open all your luggage. Don't argue with the police, that's their job.
Passenger Responsibilities
All passengers traveling by railway transport are required to:
- Have with you an identity document that gives you the right to travel on a passenger train. Be prepared to present the listed documents upon request of the conductor.
- Do not violate the rules of being in a train carriage.
- Use mattresses and pillows only with bedding sets.
- If controversial or conflict situations arise, contact the train manager.
Coupe
Passengers who have paid for a trip to a compartment are not too fond of not only the last section, but also the first section, where it is usually too noisy and fussy. Therefore, places 1–4 and 37–40 are not an option.
Coupes 4 and 5 are considered the quietest.
Tickets for the lower shelves (they are still odd numbers) are more expensive than for the upper ones, but they are much more convenient for mothers with babies and older people. Compartments 3 and 6 are not ventilated - there are emergency exits there, just like in the reserved seat.
I am entitled to: 17 services to which a Russian Railways passenger is entitled.
What is a reserved seat?
A reserved seat car is the most popular means of transportation on railways among the Russian population. The name was given to it from an additional coupon to the travel card - reserved seat
– by which the passenger received the right to occupy a seat under a certain number. Over the years, this idea was abandoned, and today tickets can be sold without specifying a specific location.
A typical design of this non-propelled vehicle includes:
- 9 compartments with a capacity of 6 people each;
- Office space for the system manager on duty;
- Compartments for conductors;
- Toilets with wash basins;
- Water heater;
- Corridors.
Such vehicles were used back in the Russian Empire and had a length of 14 to 18 meters. After the Revolution, longer models began to be produced - more than 20 meters - for long-distance trains.
Due to the presence of wooden shelves, they were called "hardwood" until upholstery was introduced everywhere in the 1960s.
