Travelling can be really expensive in London. If you want to travel from London to other cities, train ticket prices are often very high. This is where a railcard can help you save ⅓ off the price of your ticket. But the first question that comes to mind is, “What is a railcard, and how do I buy one?” Don’t worry, I’ve covered all your questions in this blog.

What is a UK Railcard?

A railcard is a discount card that allows you to save up to ⅓ off your ticket price, making it the best way to get cheap train tickets. In simple terms, if a ticket costs £30, with a railcard, you can save up to £10, so the ticket will only cost £20. You must carry your railcard when travelling, or you may be fined for not having one.

UK Railcard Types

There are nine main types of UK railcards available:

• Network Railcard:
  • Save ⅓ on your ticket price in London and the South East (mainly within the Network Railcard area).
  • Railcard price: £30 per year.
  • Available for all ages.
• 16-17 Saver:
  • For ages 16 and 17.
  • Up to 50% off every ticket price.
  • Railcard price: £30 per year.
• 16-25 Railcard:
  • For everyone aged 16-25 and mature students.
  • Save ⅓ on ticket prices.
  • Railcard price: £30 for 1 year or £70 for 3 years.
• 26-30 Railcard:
  • For everyone aged 26-30.
  • Save ⅓ on ticket prices.
  • Railcard price: £30 per year.
• Family & Friends Railcard:
  • For up to 4 adults traveling together with up to 4 kids.
  • Railcard price: £30 for 1 year or £70 for 3 years.
  • Save ⅓ on adult rail travel and 60% on kids’ tickets.
• Two Together Railcard:
  • For two people who travel together often (e.g., couples or best friends).
  • Railcard price: £30 per year.
  • Save ⅓ when traveling together.
• Senior Railcard:
  • For everyone aged 60 and over.
  • Railcard price: £30 per year.
  • Save ⅓ on ticket prices.
• Disabled Persons Railcard:
  • For people with a disability that meets the eligibility criteria.
  • Railcard price: £20 for 1 year or £54 for 3 years.
  • Save ⅓ on rail travel for you and an adult companion.
• Veterans Railcard:
  • For UK veterans.
  • Railcard price: £30 for 1 year or £70 for 3 years.
  • Save ⅓ on most rail travel for you and a named companion.

How to Get a UK Railcard

You can buy a digital railcard online or a paper railcard at a station ticket office.

What Documents Are Needed to Buy a Railcard?

A valid UK ID and a photo are required to purchase a railcard. If you buy a railcard at a station, you must provide an ID card and a passport-style photo. If you buy it online, they’ll provide a download code so you can download your digital railcard to your phone.

How to Use a UK Railcard

When buying a ticket at a station, show your valid railcard to get the discount. Online, you can add your railcard when purchasing a ticket.

How to Add a UK Railcard to the Trainline App

When you open the Trainline app and search for ticket prices, you’ll see an option to add a railcard. Click on it, choose your railcard type, and your railcard will be added to the app.

Can I Add a Railcard to My Apple Wallet?

No, unfortunately, you cannot add your railcard to your Apple or Google Wallet.

Can a UK Railcard Be Used in Europe?

You can use your UK railcard on Rail Europe to find discounted fares, but this is not guaranteed. Add it to your search on the Rail Europe website, and if cheaper tickets are available, they’ll be discounted.

Can Tourists Buy a UK Railcard?

Yes, tourists can buy a railcard in the UK, either online or at a train station.

Can I Use a UK Railcard on Eurostar?

No, you cannot use a UK railcard on Eurostar.

UK Railcard for International Students

Yes, international students can buy a UK railcard. If they have a UK residence permit (BRP), they can use it as their ID when buying a railcard.

UK Railcard Discount Code

Most railcards are priced at £30, but many offer a 3-year option for £70. If you buy the 3-year version, you save £20 instantly.

How to Renew a UK Railcard

You can renew your digital railcard within 30 days of its expiry. Here’s how:

1. Sign in to your account.
2. Click ‘Renew’ next to the railcard you wish to renew.
3. Check that all details are correct and update if required.
4. Pay, and you’re done!

How to Buy a Railcard from Trip.com

You can buy a railcard from Trip.com’s official website, but I recommend using their mobile app. The app is more convenient than the website. You can purchase a discounted railcard for £25.50 via the app, but you must buy a UK train ticket within 180 days after completing the payment to activate your railcard.

I hope this blog has covered everything related to railcards. If you have any further questions, feel free to comment below or contact Habit England for more information.