How to save money on bus and train travel
If you rely on the bus to get around, these tips might help you save money.
Find out if you qualify for a discount bus pass
You may be able to get one if you are:
- Over 60
- Dealing with a disability
- In full-time education
- Aged between 16-25
- A full-time carer who travels with the person you care for
You need to check your local bus company's website as they all have their own rules.
Children under five may be able to travel for free on many services.
Get a Railcard
Railcards can help you save up to a third on your train travel costs. You may be able to get one if you are:
- Over 60
- Have a disability
- In full-time education
- In the armed forces
- Under 25
You may have to pay upfront for some railcards. If you use the Railcard often enough, you should soon make that money back in savings.
Some local train operators run their own railcard schemes, check with their website to see what they offer.
Get a season ticket
This means you pay ahead for tickets and get them cheaper. You can usually pay for tickets for the week, month or year ahead.
The more you pay for in advance, the cheaper the tickets will be. So, if you can afford to pay for this upfront, it can be a good deal.
Some companies now offer more flexible options. There may be some that suit you if you do not have to travel every day of the week.
You can also make savings at the weekend as you have already paid for your transport.
Corporate season tickets
Some employers offer loans to cover these. They take the money from your wages each month, before tax.
They can often be cheaper than normal season tickets.
Look out for seasonal deals
During school breaks and bank holidays there can be some great offers.
- Some coach companies offer fares as little as £1
- Some local operators also offer cheap group tickets for adults and children
Use free bus services
Many big cities have free services. They will go between the main train or bus station and the city centre.
Book train tickets in advance
It is often much cheaper to book well ahead. Especially if you are travelling to London or another big city.
Do check there are no booking fees.
Travel outside of peak times when you can
Avoid rush hour when train tickets are more costly:
- Monday to Friday: Not public holidays
- In the morning: Between 06:30 and 09:30
- In the afternoon: Between 16:00 and 19:00
Could you ask your work if you can change your start time to avoid busy times?
Check online for discount codes
The best deals are often only available for a short time.
- Sign up for train operator emails
- Follow their social media accounts
- You can set up alerts to grab the codes early
Book tickets through cashback websites
You can earn some money each time you book a ticket. It all mounts up.