Railcards: Which should you choose?

If you regularly travel, then a railcard is a great way to save money, but with there being so many available which is best for your needs? 

In this guide, we will be taking you through the different types of railcards and show you how much money you can save on your rail tickets with them - allowing you to explore all summer long in a budget-friendly manner. 

What are railcards?

Railcards are discount cards that you can buy for either one or three years. They allow you to get a discount off your ticket (approximately 33.4% - 50%). 

Railcards can either be purchased at a ticket office (a paper version) or online. When buying online, they can be recorded within the railcard app or as a plastic card. 

If you travel more than a couple of times a year (or take one long trip) and you’re eligible for a railcard, then it is worth the investment.

How do railcards work?

When purchasing your train ticket, you will be able to add the number of passengers you will be travelling with and at this point, you will also be able to select the number of railcards you wish to use.

Multiple railcards can be added for different people and once the fares are displayed, you can click on one of the prices to see how much money you have saved with your railcard.

Your end cost will factor in the discounts for each passenger and railcard entered. 

How much are railcards?

The average cost of a railcard is £30 for 1 year or £70 for 3 years. An exception to this is the disabled persons railcard which costs just £24 for 1 year and £54 for 3 years.

What railcards are available?

There are two different types of railcard groups, the ones that you’re most likely to know about such as National Railcards which include the 16-25 and Senior Railcards. The other type is the Regional Railcards which you can access if you live near a railway line or in certain parts of the country.

16-17 Saver Railcard

Fairly new, this railcard will get you 50% off standard class travel (apart from ScotRail and Caledonian Sleeper,) it also includes season tickets, making it ideal for commuting to and from college or work.

You have to be 16-17 years old to be eligible hence the name. Apply now for the 16-17 Railcard and have two more years of child-rate fares without any fuss.

16-25 Saver Railcard

Once known as the 'Young Persons Railcard', with this ticket pass you will be given ⅓ off your rail travel if you are aged between 16 and 25, or if you are a mature student. 

Unlike the 16-17 Saver, this railcard is not valid when it comes to season tickets, meaning it is only designed for leisure travel or if you’re looking to save some money on commutes a couple of days of the week due to it being cheaper than buying a season ticket.

26-30 Saver Railcard

If you are no longer eligible for a 16-25 Railcard but are looking to save on your travel, then you can get ⅓ off travel as you did with the 16-25. Although, there are a few more restrictions. 

Disabled Persons Railcard

If you have a disability, you may be eligible to purchase the Disabled Persons Railcard. There are no restrictions and the person that you are travelling with will also be able to get a discount. To apply, you must provide proof of entitlement to the Railcard website during the application process. 

Friends & Family Railcard

Allowing you to add two names to it, this Family & Friends Railcard will give you a ⅓ discount for up to four adults and 60% off on four children in a group (as long as the railcard owner is travelling with you and one other child). This railcard is perfect for family or friend days out.

Network Railcard

Just about anyone can buy this railcard and get ⅓ off their fare in thee Network Railcard area. With this card, there are also a few restrictions to be aware of. If travelling for pleasure and in the correct area, this card will be well suited to you. 

Senior Railcard

You’re eligible for this railcard if you’re aged 60 or over and you will receive ⅓ off rail travel. To apply for this Senior Railcard, you must upload proof of age either online or at the station. 

Two Together Railcard

If you travel with someone frequently such as your partner, you can get ⅓ off both of your tickets with a Two Together Railcard. This person must be travelling with you to ensure you get the discount. 

Veterans Railcard

One of the newest railcards is the Veteran Railcard. This is for a UK veteran who has served at least one day in His Majesty’s Armed Forces or Merchant Mariners who have seen duty on legally defined military operations. If eligible, you will receive ⅓ off your fare and up to four children travelling with you will get 60% off. 

Find the right railcard for you with Grand Central 

A great journey will feel even greater with these railcard savings! To cut costs whilst travelling, apply for one of our railcards today or contact our helpful team for further information and advice.