The pandemic has changed a lot about the world and a lot of these changes will be in the long-term. Train travel is one aspect of daily life that has been changed drastically due to the pandemic and will be interesting to see how it recovers, particularly when you consider Brexit which could also change the way in which people travel in a few different ways.
Train Travel Hit Hard
Before the pandemic, trains would be filled to the brim during peak hours with people travelling to work and then back home again early evening. The train has been a great way to commute for many people, but of course this has all changed now. Many people are working from home still and even those that are travelling into work are less likely to use the train as it will be more dangerous in terms of transmission than driving, walking or cycling. When you use a train now, you must maintain distance and wear a mask and it is understandable why people are looking into alternatives.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead to the following months and a post-pandemic world, it is hard to see trains suddenly being packed again all of a sudden especially when so many businesses plan to continue with remote work. Once the threat of the virus has passed, though, it is easy to see people starting to use the trains again though as it is such a convenient and easy way to travel.
Train Vs Flying
In addition to this, it is thought that the impact that COVID-19 has had on the airline industry means that trains used for international travel could be given a boost when people are allowed to travel internationally again (it is also expected that people will be looking to go on holiday when it is safe to do so). Improving rail conditions and changing attitudes to train travel could see more people look to travel internationally for business or pleasure via train as opposed to flying even if it takes longer and is more expensive.
Brexit Changes
Of course, there is one major obstacle when it comes to overseas travel which is Brexit. Rules have changed on travelling between the UK and European Union countries which could deter people from travel. This could see people opt for a staycation instead and many people have discovered the perks of this during the pandemic when travel was less restricted. A staycation can be much easier to plan, more affordable than travelling overseas and there are all kinds of fantastic places to visit all over the UK.
Staycations
Additionally, train travel is perfect for a staycation as people are able to easily travel throughout the UK and not have to worry about driving themselves. As an example, people can book a Doncaster to London train online and then sit back and enjoy the view out the window as you travel south down to the capital where there is obviously a huge amount to see and do. It is likely that many will be looking to save money in the coming months and years but people will still need a holiday after such a difficult time, so staycations could remain popular for a while.
Train travel has been hit hard by the pandemic with people working from home, limited as to where they can travel and also concerned about transmission using public transport. Despite this, and the changes that Brexit will bring, it is easy to see train travel bouncing back, though, as it remains a highly convenient way to travel both for business and leisure so once the threat has passed people will be keen to start travelling once again.