Advance Train Tickets Meaning

Advance train tickets are discounted tickets offered when booking train travel 12 weeks generally in advance. They are valid only for specific dates and trains, and all Advance tickets are one-way and non-refundable. For those with fixed travel plans and looking to save money, advance train tickets are a popular choice!

Extra Discounts With Railcard

RailcardStandard Class FaresFirst Class Fares
16-17 Saver50% offn/a
16-25 Railcard1/3 off1/3 off
26-30 Railcard1/3 off1/3 off
Family & Friends Railcard1/3 offn/a
Senior Railcard1/3 off1/3 off
Two together1/3 off1/3 off
Disabled Persons1/3 off1/3 off
HM Forces1/3 off1/3 off
Veterans Railcard1/3 off1/3 off

Advance Train Tickets Rules

Changes

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If you wish to change your travel time or ticket class, you can pay the price difference between your current ticket and the most suitable ticket for your journey.
In many cases, if you are still travelling during a time when your ticket is not restricted, you won't need to pay any additional fare.
If you want to change the travel date, starting point or destination of your ticket, you may need to purchase a new ticket and request a refund for your existing ticket.

The refund and change fees for tickets vary based on the ticket value.
For tickets valued up to £1.99, there is no fee.
For tickets valued between £2.00 and £4.99, there is a £0.99 fee.
Tickets valued between £5.00 and £9.99 pay a £2.50 fee
While tickets valued between £10.00 and £14.99 have a £6.00 fee.
For tickets valued over £15.00, there is a £10.00 fee.

Refunds

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In general, refunds on Advance Tickets are not allowed, it can be changed up to 15 minutes before the departure of the first train, though a processing fee may be required(specifically the same as the change fee). You'll also need to pay any fare difference.

Seat Reservations

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Seat reservations are available at no cost but mandatory. Generally, reservations can be made up to 2 hours before departure, but for early morning trains, the latest booking time is 4:00 pm the day before.

Things to Know about Advance Train Tickets

When can I buy Advance train tickets?

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It depends on the train company and the specific route. Generally, Advance train tickets can be purchased up to 12 weeks (or 84 days) before the date of travel.

Are train tickets cheaper if you book them in advance?

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Yes, train tickets are often cheaper if you book them in advance. Advance tickets typically offer discounted fares compared to the standard or on-the-day fares. By booking in advance, you have a better chance of securing lower prices and taking advantage of any available promotional offers.Want to save money on train tickets? Discover our guide on how to buy cheap train tickets and start saving today!

Can I use an Advance ticket at a different time?

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No, advance train tickets are typically valid only for the specific train and time that you have booked. They are not flexible and cannot be used for travel on a different train or at a different time.
If you need flexibility in your travel plans, it is advisable to consider purchasing a ticket with more flexible conditions, such as an Off-Peak or Anytime ticket, which allow for more freedom in choosing your travel time.

Can I get an earlier train with an Advance ticket?

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In general, Advance train tickets are valid only for the specific train and time that you have booked. However, some train companies may allow you to board an earlier train on the same route, subject to availability and any applicable restrictions.

Check More FAQs 󱒃

Train Ticket Types in the UK

There are a variety of ticket types offered by train operators in the UK. to help you make an informed decision when purchasing your ticket, we have listed the eight main types of tickets available:

Off-Peak & Super-Off Peak Train Tickets

Off-Peak & Super-Off Peak Train Tickets 󰄽

Allow passengers to travel during off-peak hours and specified routes.

Return Train Tickets

Return Train Tickets 󰄽

Includes both the outward and returning journeys between two specified destinations.

Advance Tickets

Advance Tickets 󰄽

Discounted tickets when booking train travel 12 weeks generally in advance.

First Class Tickets

First Class Tickets 󰄽

Travelling on a higher level of train service.

Anytime Train Tickets

Anytime Train Tickets 󰄽

Fully flexible ticket type that allows you to purchase and travel at any time.

GroupSave Tickets

GroupSave Tickets 󰄽

Group discount ticket for three to nine passengers travelling together.

Season Tickets

Season Tickets 󰄽

Allow unlimited travel within two stations in a period time.

Flexi Season Tickets

Flexi Season Tickets 󰄽

Allow for a maximum of eight days of travel within 28 day.

How To Make My Train Journey Cheaper?

To make your train journey cheaper, consider using a train fare finder to compare prices and find the cheap train tickets. Additionally, booking in advance, travelling during Off-Peak times, and purchasing a Railcard for discounts are also good saving tips. Keep an eye out for promotions and special offers with our Cheap Train Ticket Finder. Save money on your train tickets and enjoy a more affordable journey.

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