Rail passengers brace yourselves – fares are set to soar across the nation from next week, but savvy travellers might still find a loophole to ease the financial sting. In a move that has ruffled feathers, the government last year announced a 4.6% hike in ticket prices, outstripping July’s retail price index (RPI) by 1%, a traditional benchmark for fare adjustments.
Despite the uproar, the Treasury insists that the March 2 increase will be one of the “lowest absolute increases in three years”. While train operators typically have free reign over unregulated fares, this government-led rise will impact popular ticket types including season tickets, certain off-peak returns, and flexible tickets for city travel.
The government also said it would agree to a £5 increase to £30 railcards following an industry review. Yet, for those quick on their feet, there’s a chance to dodge the hike before March 2 rolls around.
How to save money ahead of the rail price increase
If you’re a regular rail user, consider investing in an annual season ticket. These tickets offer unlimited travel between two set locations at any time of day for a year, making them ideal for daily commuters.
By purchasing these tickets before the impending price hike, you could potentially avoid the increased costs. Importantly, those travelling before Sunday’s increase won’t be subject to the new prices.
For those who frequently embark on longer train journeys, it might be worth exploring the option of split-ticketing. This involves buying two tickets for one journey, effectively splitting your trip into sections but still covering the entire route.
While this method can sometimes result in savings, it does require a bit more effort. Although apps like Trainline and TrainPal offer split-ticketing services, it’s always advisable to shop around to ensure you’re getting the best deal.