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Cut the cost of train tickets
By Rebecca Atkinson
Travelling by train can cost a small fortune - meaning it's often cheaper to drive. But by following Moneywise's top tips you could easily cut the cost.
We all know the benefits of travelling by train; it's better for the environment than driving, allows you to drink if you're on a night out; and no traffic jams.
But, more often than not, there's one major downside - the cost. Although the cost of rail tickets is set to fall in 2010, it can still be extremely expensive to travel by train across the UK.
However, there are ways you can cut the cost:
Easy ways to save money…
The earlier you book, the less you are likely to pay - according to thetrainline.com, you could save 43% by booking in advance. As a general rule you should aim to buy a ticket 12 weeks before your date of travel, when the first advanced tickets are released.
However, these might get cheaper as the date of travel gets closer although this will depend on the route and the time of the journey; the less popular, the cheaper it is likelier to become.
Do your research
Raileasy.co.uk also features tools that promise to help you find the best deal.
When buying tickets, watch out for booking fees as these add to the cost of your journey. Thetrainline.com and raileasy.co.uk both charge these fees, but you can bypass them altogether by buying from the rail company in question.
Be flexible
In addition, some routes are operated by different train companies and it may be that one is cheaper than the other. That's why it's always worth comparing prices online.
Get a railcard
A word of warning though; not all journeys (such as those at peak times) are eligible for a railcard discount so check before you book.
If you are under the age of 26 then remember to renew your railcard just before your 26th birthday, as this is valid for a year.
Get the right type of ticket
The best way to work this out is to use the calculator on National Rail's website. Some rail companies also offer unlimited travel on specific routes (again, see the National Rail website for more details).
Promotions
And if you're feeling a little more adventurous
Single or return?
If you are travelling somewhere during peak time but coming home during off-peak, it might again be cheaper to buy two singles rather than a peak return.
Split ticketing
Split ticketing is also a good idea if part but not all of your journey is at peak times.
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