Railcard discount 2022: How to save money on train tickets
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Rail prices in the UK have increased, and with the cost of living crisis we're all looking at ways to save where we can.
If you're a regular train user - and even if you're not - it's worth picking up a Railcard to save on each journey you take.
While most Railcards retail for £30 per year, Trainline currently have a Railcard discount where you can get 33% off your Railcard, simply use the code SUMMER33 at checkout to get an annual card for just £20. There is limited availability though, so you'll want to be quick with this one.
What are the benefits of using a Railcard?
If you haven't come across Railcards before, there are a nine main types of UK railcards available. They cover everything from 16-25 Railcards to Senior Railcards for adults aged 60+.
Each Railcard means you get a substantial amount of discount each time you buy a train ticket; a Network Railcard (available to people in London at the South East) gives adults 1/3 off and children 60% off, whereas the 16-17 Saver will give 16 and 17-year-olds 50% off rail fares.
Railcards can be stored on your Trainline app, so you don't have to carry around a physical card.
While discounts are available on all the one year cards, they're only available on some three years cards. Here's a low-down of the Railcard types and prices:
Network Railcard - £30 for one year
16-17 Saver - £30 for one year
16-25 Railcard - £30 for one year, £70 for three years
26-30 Railcard - £30 for one year
Family & Friends Railcard - £30 for one year, £70 for three years
Two Together Railcard - £30 for one year
Senior Railcard - £30 for one year, £70 for one year
Disabled Persons Railcard - £20 for one year, £54 for three years
Veterans Railcard - £30 for one year, £70 for one year
What savings can I get with a railcard?
All cards have 1/3 off rail fares, apart from 16-17 Saver which has 50% off. It's also worth noting that the Network Railcard, Family & Friends Railcard and Veterans Railcard also have 60% off kids' fares.
Railcards can be used for train fares during off-peak times, weekends, and public holidays, but there are some caveats.
For example, the Disabled Persons Railcard can be used at any time and the age-related railcards can be used during peak times with a minimum fare.
If you're in a hurry, you'll be pleased to know that the railcard will be available in your app as soon as you purchase it.
