Train travel remains an important mode of transportation because it offers many benefits when compared to other modes of transport, like flying or driving a car. When you travel by train, you often get the opportunity to see the countryside. Here are some tips on how to get a cheap ticket on a train.
- Advance booking of tickets - passengers should book tickets in advance. This is to avoid the last-minute rush when the prices have hiked. The most advisable time is 12 weeks before the actual travel date. However, if you miss the 12-week deadline, you can still book the tickets but at a higher price. Prices increase as the travel day nears. Booking tickets on the last day or a few hours before the travel results to double or triple the initial fare. Many companies advertise by offering email alerts to passenger for advance booking thus, enabling them take advantage of the opportunities.
- Always check offers - Many of the train companies run offers. Therefore, it is advisable to consider signing up to receive emails from your favorite train companies - particularly if you regularly take trains around the country. Furthermore, you may consider signing up with several third party ticket selling sites. This will help you know about upcoming offers at competitive rates.
- Book Online - Always visit a reliable train company website that helps you to compare ticket prices from all major train operating companies. This will provide you with an ideal opportunity to find great deals. Buying 2 tickets can reduce the costs of train travel. Therefore, make sure to check out the "2 Singles Tickets" tab when searching for return tickets.
- Always Take Advantage of peak hours - Peak hour attracts low prices. Many train operators reduces prices during this busy periods. This is because they are no losses likely to be incurred, as business is stable. Other times when they are no passenger tend to attract high prices as they try to compensate for their losses.
- Travel Cards - If you a regular train traveler, you should take advantage of travel cards that enables you to get back your cash. These cards also allow you to get discounts when they are announced.
Always be wise if you want to travel cheap, because there are lots of discounts and ways on how you can travel cheap. All you need is to find them.