6 Things You Wish You Knew Before Riding the Hogwarts Express for the First Time

Annually, on September 1st, all of the Hogwarts students come together to take the Hogwarts Express to the castle. For first years, this is both an exciting and overwhelming time. There are a few tricks to the trade but once you get the hang of it, it isn't so bad. Wouldn't it have been easier if there was all of this information you needed to know written down some where?

1. You've got to run through the wall.

You've got to do it. It won't hurt you. Platform 9 and 3/4 won't just appear for all of the wizards and witches but you have to get to it first. Knowing this little tip will help all first years and ensure that they won't have to rely on experienced families to get to the platform.

2. It's a long ride so bring something to do.

The train leaves promptly at 11 am, but won't arrive until the early evening. Of course the train will be filled with excited students, but this can be a pretty long ride so it's always best to come prepared!

3. There is an awesome treat cart.

Cauldron cakes, Bertie Botts, Chocolate Frogs, and more! This cart is amazing! You're going to want to make sure that you have plenty of money to spend on these treats, especially if you've never had wizarding sweets because you'll want to try them all.

4. You may meet your new best friends.

There is no assigned seating on the train so it is completely random as to who you'll be sharing a carriage with. These students may be in your same house or your classes. They may also turn out to be your best friends.

5. Prefects have their own carriage.

This is good to know. The prefects are students who patrol the area and ensure that all students are following the rules. Their first task is the Hogwarts Express and they sit seperately for most of the ride, but they will occasionally come out and make sure everyone is doing what they're supposed to do.

6. It doesn't take you right to the castle.

Don't expect to hop off of the train at the front steps of the castle. You have to travel to it, and first years go by boat across the lake. After your first year, you'll travel by horseless drawn carriages.