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i This applies across the UK

Saving money and increasing income

How can I save money on public transport?

Travel costs can take a big chunk out your monthly budget. But there are some ways to spend less on public transport.

We know that this can be a lot harder for some than for others. If you are:

Checklist:

  1. Make sure you are not missing out on discounts
  2. Get a season ticket
  3. Book ahead
  4. Keep track of good deals
  5. Travel off-peak
  6. Try to share costs

How to save money on bus and train travel

If you rely on the bus to get around, these tips might help you save money.

Find out if you qualify for a discount bus pass

You may be able to get one if you are:

  • Over 60
  • Dealing with a disability
  • In full-time education
  • Aged between 16-25
  • A full-time carer who travels with the person you care for

You need to check your local bus company's website as they all have their own rules.

Children under five may be able to travel for free on many services.

Get a Railcard

Railcards can help you save up to a third on your train travel costs. You may be able to get one if you are:

  • Over 60
  • Have a disability
  • In full-time education
  • In the armed forces
  • Under 25

You may have to pay upfront for some railcards. If you use the Railcard often enough, you should soon make that money back in savings.

Some local train operators run their own railcard schemes, check with their website to see what they offer.

Get a season ticket

This means you pay ahead for tickets and get them cheaper. You can usually pay for tickets for the week, month or year ahead.

The more you pay for in advance, the cheaper the tickets will be. So, if you can afford to pay for this upfront, it can be a good deal.

Some companies now offer more flexible options. There may be some that suit you if you do not have to travel every day of the week.

You can also make savings at the weekend as you have already paid for your transport.

Corporate season tickets

Some employers offer loans to cover these. They take the money from your wages each month, before tax.

They can often be cheaper than normal season tickets.

Look out for seasonal deals

During school breaks and bank holidays there can be some great offers.

  • Some coach companies offer fares as little as £1
  • Some local operators also offer cheap group tickets for adults and children

Use free bus services

Many big cities have free services. They will go between the main train or bus station and the city centre.

Book train tickets in advance

It is often much cheaper to book well ahead. Especially if you are travelling to London or another big city.

Do check there are no booking fees.

Travel outside of peak times when you can

Avoid rush hour when train tickets are more costly:

  • Monday to Friday: Not public holidays
  • In the morning: Between 06:30 and 09:30
  • In the afternoon: Between 16:00 and 19:00

 Could you ask your work if you can change your start time to avoid busy times?

Check online for discount codes

The best deals are often only available for a short time.

  • Sign up for train operator emails
  • Follow their social media accounts
  • You can set up alerts to grab the codes early

Book tickets through cashback websites

You can earn some money each time you book a ticket. It all mounts up.

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How to save money on taxis

Share cabs where you can

If you live near someone who travels the same way as you, share a cab.

There are also apps that help you find people to share with.

Make the most of rewards

Some taxi firms offer:

  • 'Refer a friend' codes
  • Loyalty points
  • Money back for good reviews

Ask for flat rates for long-distance

This can be cheaper than paying by the mile or the hour.

But you may need to pay these upfront.

Ask for a cheaper deal as a regular

Many local taxi firms will offer deals for people who use them a lot.

Money worries?

Find out how we can help you.

Get help now