Validating rail tickets in europe

Night accommodations must be reserved and paid for in advance.

In Germany, Belgium, and The Netherlands, you just hop on the train and wait for the conductor to punch your ticket.

Also, an American "7" looks like a "1" to Europeans.

Make sure you put a "crossbar" through the seven, or the conductor might claim it is a 1, and that you already used that date of travel. Regarding validating point to point tickets, it depends upon the country.

Prices vary depending on the type of accommodation and country.

If reservations for pass holders are sold out, you will either need to select a different date that has available accommodations or purchase a ticket at the best available price.

Though the compartment may include a wash basin it does not have a private toilet.