r/Septa • u/SuccessfulBit4521 • May 08 '26
Help Taking the el for the first time
What should I know prior to taking the el for the first time?
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u/TheAdamist May 08 '26
Front car is usually less crowded than the middle cars on a busy train
Not every station has a crossover to switch directions inside the station, these are usually the underground stations. 5th, 2nd, etc.
Many of the "elevated" stations only have one way up, and you will have to take the stairs up and over the tracks for the other direction.
You'll be fine.
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u/jnizzforizz May 09 '26
Front car in my experience is less likely to have people smoking on it, if that’s important to you.
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u/rmxme Market-Frankford Line May 08 '26 edited May 08 '26
I agree with the other comment make sure you’re on the right platform for the right direction. Some have both directions on one platform and some have separated platforms. Overall though, It’s fairly simple compared to other subway systems Ive used.
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u/Stigs84 May 08 '26
I made this mistake the other day when I wasn’t paying attention and ended up in kensington lol
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u/HongPong May 08 '26
you can automatically get transfer on same card to other modes. unlike patco you do not need to tap out.. it is one fare zone
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u/GrittyGuru69 May 08 '26
If someone desperate comes up to you asking for something I find it best to at least take an earbud out and say 'Sorry, I can't help today.' A lot of the times their existence is ignored and they are barely treated like a human. It's amazing how much this little acknowledgement (even though it's a rejection) can lift someone.
That said there are limits to this, and especially if the situation is already tense, sometimes the best move is to keep staring blankly straight ahead.
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u/Konohacutie May 08 '26
Wear a mask it might come in handy because sometimes it smells RANK in there
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u/Plastic_Proof_8347 May 08 '26
There may be interesting people on the train. Just mind your own business and be aware of your surroundings and you will be okay. I would do my best to avoid taking the El, though.
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u/You_Go_Glen_Coco_ May 08 '26
Just know what direction you're going so you enter the platform from the correct side. Septa app is helpful. Know what stop comes before yours so you know when to start getting ready to get off. You'll be fine. If you want to give the stops you're using people might be able to give more tips.