Travelling by train this Christmas? Act now to get bargain fares

21 September 2017

Planning a shopping trip, panto outing, or a visit to relatives over the festive season? With 95 days to go, the transport watchdog reminds those planning to travel by train to act now to save cash.

Most train companies release their cheaper ‘advance’ fares around 12 weeks in advance – so set an alert now to get a handy email reminder. When the cheaper tickets are gone – they are gone!

Splitting your journey can also lead to savings – check out one of the many websites out there that can help with this. These are just a couple of the top tips found in the Transport Focus fares guide.

Anthony Smith, chief executive of independent watchdog Transport Focus, said:

“Christmas is an expensive time of year so we advise passengers to buy early to get the cheapest tickets.

“The ticketing system can be complex and we are working with industry to try and make things simpler for travellers. But in the meantime check out our guide to make sure you find the best value fare any time of the year.”

Anthony’s top tips

1. Get organised early: sign up to ticket alerts on train company websites to get first chance of buying the cheapest tickets 12 weeks or more in advance

2. Look for special offers: always check the website of the train company you are travelling on for any special offers. If in doubt look at National Rail website to find out who runs the service

3. Can you get a discount? Check if you are entitled to get discounts on advance rail fares, including those with senior, young person aged 16-25 and disability Railcards

Find out more here: transportfocus.org.uk/traintickets

Notes to editors

Steven John Harry, communications assistant
Telephone: 0300 123 0821 or email: steven.harry@transportfocus.org.uk

Transport Focus is the independent transport watchdog working to make a difference for all transport users.