Is ‘Good Enough’ Good Enough — Rethinking Standards in Travel

Recently, I took a train journey, traveling in a 3AC Economy (3E) coach. With a ticket price of around 1,000 INR, my companion and I argued if the amenities warranted the cost. We noticed the restrooms were relatively clean — not pristine, but far from filthy. The berths were comfortable enough, and we thought it was a good value for the money.

But as our debate continued, I wondered about the bigger picture: why were we so prepared to settle for “not bad” or “good enough”? Had we come to believe that hygiene and basic comfort are optional rather than required? Shouldn’t every passenger, regardless of class, expect some level of hygiene and comfort? Doesn’t every traveler, whether in first class or economy, deserve to be in a safe, clean, and comfortable environment? We all might have these questions. However, in practice, we find ourselves altering expectations based on ticket costs, as if cleanliness and comfort are extras for those who pay more.

It made me wonder if we, as travelers, have been conditioned to accept inferior service simply because we don’t pay top-tier tickets. When did basic cleanliness and comfort become negotiable, based on price rather than necessity? Shouldn’t these be guaranteed regardless of travel class?

I see a world in which no one has to lower their expectations to meet the travel class they select. Be it a long trip or a quick commute, every traveler needs a safe, sanitary, and comfortable atmosphere. After all, public transportation is something that must be accountable to its users. In an ideal travel system, everyone would have access to the necessities, and no one would have to evaluate the worth of their journey in terms of “good enough.”

This encounter has changed the way I perceive train travel. Instead of accepting “not bad,” I’m left wondering why we’re not all arguing for “excellent” as the benchmark for everyone, regardless of class. Every traveler, from budget to premium, deserves respect. Perhaps it’s time we all started anticipating it. Maybe it’s time that we reconsider our standards. We shouldn’t settle for the bare minimum, especially when it comes to important services like public transportation.

Because, ultimately, comfort and cleanliness are essential human needs, not luxuries.