February 23rd 2024.
Train travel can be an expensive affair, and it's no secret that finding affordable tickets can be a daunting task. With so many options and jargon like 'peak', 'off-peak', and 'advance' fares, it's no wonder that more than half of passengers feel overwhelmed by the ticketing confusion. In fact, a survey by SilverRail revealed that one fifth of rail users struggle to find the best deals for their journey amidst the numerous websites and apps claiming to offer the 'best' deals.
And with the news of train fares in England set to rise by up to 4.9% next month, it's now more important than ever to find ways to save money on train tickets. But don't worry, we've got you covered with some top hacks to help you score the best deals.
One of the most effective ways to save money on train fares is to plan ahead and book your tickets in advance. By purchasing your tickets several weeks ahead and being able to travel on a specific train, you can save up to 60% on your fare. However, it's important to keep in mind that if your plans change and you're unable to travel, you may have to purchase a new ticket.
Another tip is to travel during off-peak times if possible. Peak times usually fall before 9:30am and between 4pm and 7pm on weekdays, and tickets during these times tend to be more expensive. If your journey falls on the cusp of peak time, you may be able to save money by purchasing a ticket for part of your journey during peak time and the rest during off-peak hours.
If you're feeling adventurous and don't mind a bit of extra planning, you can also save money by splitting your ticket. This involves buying two singles instead of a return ticket or breaking up your journey into smaller parts. There are apps like TrainSplit that can help you figure out the best way to split your ticket, but they may charge a small fee. Alternatively, you can also purchase the separate tickets directly from the train operator, which can be a good way to travel first class for just a few pounds extra.
When it comes to booking your tickets, it's best to avoid third-party platforms like trainline.com as they usually charge a booking fee. Instead, go straight to the individual train operators for the best prices. And if you're splitting your ticket yourself, you'll likely save even more money than using trainline.com's SplitSave feature or an app.
If you're able to avoid travelling through London, you can save a considerable amount of money. Routes through the capital often come at a premium, so it may be worth considering alternative routes, even if they may take a bit longer.
Another way to save money on train fares is by investing in a railcard. These cards offer about one-third off the normal ticket price and are available for different age groups, families, and regular travellers. For example, over-50s in Scotland can purchase a railcard for just £15 and enjoy flat-rate travel from £17 return anywhere in Scotland, as well as 50% off food and drinks and 20% off advance and off-peak tickets when booked online.
And if you're feeling fancy, you can also eat like a king on trains by booking a spot in the Pullman Dining carriage. While it may set you back a hefty £54.50, it's a unique experience that 21-year-old Emily Pettitt from London highly recommends. However, for those on a budget, it's worth noting that first class travellers can reserve a spot in the Pullman carriage up to two weeks in advance, while standard class travellers may have to walk in and hope for a free table.
For regular commuters, a season ticket can also offer big savings. Whether it's a weekly, monthly, or annual ticket, it can often be a more cost-effective option. And for those who work from home part of the week, a flexi season ticket may be the way to go, allowing eight days of travel within a 28-day period between two stations. Just be sure to check if splitting your ticket would be a cheaper option.
Lastly, if your train is delayed or cancelled, don't forget that you're entitled to compensation. The amount increases the longer the delay, and there are now schemes like Delay Repay that make it easier to claim. Simply provide your journey details and bank information, and upload your ticket to receive a payment within a week or so. The amount may vary, but it can be up to 100% of the ticket price. Check your train company's website for more information on how to make a claim.
Do you have any train fare saving stories to share? We'd love to hear from you! Get in touch by emailing us at email.
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