It's that time of year again! The holidays are just around the corner, which means it's time to start planning your trip home. If you're like most people, you probably dread the thought of spending hundreds of pounds on a train ticket. On top of that, you probably have spent quite a lot during the fresher's week, so you are probably looking for a way to save a bit of money. But what if I told you there were a few tricks you could use to save big on your Christmas train ticket?
Read on to find out more.
Book in advance
This one is a no-brainer. The earlier you book your ticket, the better chance you have of getting a lower price. But did you know that you can actually save even more money by being flexible with your travel dates? Try different combinations of dates and times to see what gives you the best price. You may have to be a little bit flexible with your schedule, but it'll be worth it when you see how much money you save.
Avoid peak times
Another way to save money on your train ticket is to avoid travelling during peak times. This includes weekends and holidays, as well as the days leading up to and after these periods. If possible, try to travel mid-week instead. You'll likely find that ticket prices are significantly lower when you do.
Travel light
Another cost-saving tip is to travel light. Most train companies charge extra for baggage, so if you can avoid checking any bags, you'll save yourself some money. This may not always be possible, but it's worth considering if you want to save as much money as possible on your train fare.
Get a rail card
Almost all train companies offer discounts for people who purchase a rail card. If you are someone who is still studying, then you can combine it with a student discount; just make sure to mention it when booking your ticket. You could end up saving a significant amount of money just by having a rail card!
Look for Promotions and Sales
Many train companies run regular promotions and sales, so it's definitely worth checking their websites and social media channels before you book. You might find that there are some great deals available if you're willing to do a bit of digging.
Use Price Comparison Websites
There are lots of different price comparison websites out there that can help you find the cheapest train tickets possible. A few of our favourites include Trainline and Redspottedhanky. All you need to do is enter your journey details, and they'll search all the different train companies for you to find the best deal. Easy!
Christmas is an expensive time of year; there's no doubt about it. But that doesn't mean you have to break the bank just to get home for the holidays. By following these simple tips, you can save yourself hundreds of pounds on your Christmas train ticket home. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
