Originally Posted by
supermasterphil
I strongly advice against it unless really necessary. Especially if one is not capable the German language. OP would have to buy the ticket from the guy who checks if there is anybody on board going for a "free ride". It always looks fishy if somebody says: "sorry, I was in a rush" and I have seen when he would not see the 10% surcharge ticket but rather have him pay a fine of 40 Euro!
That sounds serious.. Although, admittedly, with the types of conducters Iīve met, I can see this situation
OTOH, I do that quite often and never had trouble (I tend to be one of those people running up the stairs and jumping into the train when the doors alread beep). The important thing is just to tell him rightaway you need a ticket.
Considering the surcharge itīs not optimal in any case, but good as a backup.