Cheaper train tickets: 5 ways to save money

The most recent average price hike was in March, as households’ cost of living was squeezed and strikes and poor rail service angered some travelers.

Some commuters book their train tickets ahead of the fare increase to avoid more expensive travel. However, here are his five tips on how to shop for the cheapest deals any time of the year.

Here are five ways to save money on train tickets, along with some general booking steps online:

1. Book in Advance:

• Train tickets are often cheaper when booked well in advance. Many railway operators release their tickets up to 12 weeks before the travel date. The earlier you book, the better chance you have of finding lower-priced tickets.

2. Be Flexible with Dates and Times:

• Being flexible with your travel dates and times can lead to significant savings. Off-peak trains (outside of rush hours) usually have lower fares. Consider traveling on weekdays instead of weekends as well.

3. Use Railcards or Discount Cards:

• If you are eligible, consider purchasing a railcard or discount card. Railcards are available for various groups, such as students, seniors, families, or young people, and can offer substantial discounts on train fares.

4. Split Ticketing:

• Split ticketing involves buying multiple tickets for different segments of your journey instead of a single ticket covering the entire route. Sometimes, this can result in lower overall fares, especially for long journeys.

5. Look for Promotions and Deals:

• Keep an eye out for special promotions, sales, and deals offered by railway operators. These promotions can include discounted fares or limited-time offers, so staying updated can help you find the best deals.

Booking Steps Online:

1. Select a Booking Platform: Choose a reputable online platform to book your train tickets. You can use official railway websites, third-party booking sites, or mobile apps.
2. Enter Travel Details: Enter your departure and arrival cities or stations, along with the travel date and time. If you’re flexible with dates, some platforms allow you to view fares for multiple dates at once.
3. Choose the Train: Review the available trains for your selected route and compare the fares. Take note of the train’s departure and arrival times and the type of service (e.g., express, local).
4. Select Seat/Class (If Applicable): For certain train services, you may have the option to choose a specific seat or class. If seat selection is available, choose your preferences.
5. Add Passengers: Enter the number of passengers traveling. If you qualify for any discounts or have a railcard, select the appropriate options.
6. Review Fare Options: Some booking platforms offer different fare options, such as flexible or non-flexible tickets. Review the terms and conditions of each fare type before making a decision.
7. Payment: Enter your payment details and complete the booking process. Ensure that you receive a booking confirmation and any necessary e-tickets or reservation details.
8. Check for Discounts: Before finalizing the booking, check if there are any applicable discounts or promotional codes that you can apply to lower the fare.

Remember that the specific steps and options may vary depending on the booking platform and the railway operator.