If you’re travelling around the UK, train is often the most convenient option.
But trains in the UK can be expensive and complicated to work out how to use!
Here are 14 UK train travel tips, which will help you to have the most affordable and enjoyable journey possible.
Plan and book in advance
Train tickets in the UK vary significantly in price – and booking ahead usually secures better fares.
Longer journeys, like the Edinburgh to London train, can be snapped up for cheap if you order in advance – but they get very expensive closer to the time of departure.
Avoid peak times, generally from 6:30 to 9:30 AM and 4 to 7 PM on weekdays, as these tickets tend to be pricier and more crowded.
Use railcards to save on fares
If you’re travelling often or with companions, a railcard can save you up to 1/3 on fares.
This applies to most UK train tickets, although sleeper trains and international services (such as the London to Paris train) may be exempt.
Options include the 16-25 Railcard, Two Together Railcard and the Family & Friends Railcard.
They’re affordable and can pay for themselves within a couple of trips.
Most railcards require an initial fee and are available both as physical and digital cards.
Travel light for easier transfers
Many UK train stations lack lifts or escalators, meaning you may need to carry luggage up and down stairs.
Try to travel with a suitcase you can lift easily, especially if transferring trains.
Consider split ticketing for cheaper fares
“Split ticketing” means buying multiple tickets for segments of your journey rather than a single through ticket.
Websites like Split My Fare and TrainSplit can help with this, and the savings can be significant.
The journey itself remains the same, as you do not need to get off the train at these split points.
Be mindful of engineering works
Weekends and public holidays often coincide with railway maintenance and engineering works.
These can disrupt your journey, sometimes replacing train services with slower replacement buses.
Before travelling, check National Rail’s website or use their app to confirm if engineering works are planned on your route.
Download tickets in advance
Most train operators now support e-tickets, so downloading tickets in advance (I always add to my Google Wallet) is wise – particularly if you think you may encounter poor mobile reception en route.
When I travel to the West Country, I bypass a lot of rural areas – so this is always a possibility!
This ensures you’re not reliant on connectivity at the station or en route.
Carry a power bank for long journeys
On longer journeys, carrying a power bank can be useful, as charging points on trains aren’t always reliable.
This is particularly helpful if you’re relying on mobile devices for tickets, work or entertainment during your trip.
Take advantage of the Delay Repay scheme
If your train is delayed by 15 minutes or more, most operators offer compensation through the Delay Repay scheme.
Rules vary by operator, so it’s worth checking the details on their website – but many offer 25% back for delays of 15 minutes or more, 50% back for 30 – 60 minute delays and 100% back for delays of over an hour.
Applying for Delay Repay can help you recoup some costs in the event of unexpected delays.
Make use of onboard facilities
Many long-distance trains have power sockets, Wi-Fi, and food services.
However, these aren’t always available on commuter trains, so pack snacks and download any required Netflix episodes in advance!
The WiFi is usually spotty, so I wouldn’t attempt to rely on it.
Keep track of last-minute updates
Train platforms can change last minute, and delays aren’t uncommon.
Stations have live screens and announcements, but downloading the National Rail app or your train operator’s app can keep you updated, especially useful if you’re not near a departure board.
Reserve seats in advance
While seat reservations aren’t always mandatory, reserving ensures you avoid standing, especially on busy routes or longer journeys.
This can be particularly useful during peak times and when travelling in groups.
Use Seatfrog to upgrade to first-class
Seatfrog allows you to bid for affordable first-class upgrades on certain trains, even after you’ve booked your standard fare.
This can make longer journeys much more comfortable, especially when securing upgrades at a fraction of the usual cost.
Check live departure information on RealTime Trains
To see updated platform information or anticipate last-minute changes, use RealTimeTrains.
This site can be helpful at larger stations where platforms may change frequently and announcements don’t always arrive in time.
Make use of quiet carriages if you need to work
If you need a distraction-free environment, look for the designated quiet carriages on many trains.
These are ideal for catching up on work or reading, as they’re designated for quieter activities, with mobile phone use and loud conversations banned.
If you are seated in a quiet carriage, remember to respect those around you!
