Back to Uni? Don’t Pay Full Price for Train Tickets

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Pam

15 Sep 20253 min read

Let’s get one thing straight. If you’re heading back to uni without a Railcard, you’re basically volunteering to pay extra for the exact same journey. That’s like walking into the supermarket, picking up a meal deal, and then insisting on paying separately for the sandwich, crisps, and drink. Why would you?

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The TrainSplit app makes it easy to find cheaper alternative journeys through split ticketing.

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The TrainSplit app helps you find better fares by splitting your tickets. Available on iOS and Android, just search for TrainSplit in your app store and start saving today!


What’s the Deal?

  • 16–17 Saver: Half-price travel, all day, every day. No minimum fares. Perfect if you’re still in sixth form or college. £35 a year.

  • 16–25 Railcard: One third off most fares nationwide. Great for students and young professionals. £35 for one year or £80 for three.

  • 26–30 Railcard: For life after graduation. Still one third off fares across the UK, £35 a year.

A couple of return trips and the thing’s paid for itself. After that, it’s just bonus savings every time you book.

But here’s the catch: limited quantities are available. Once they’re gone, they’re gone.

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Myths People Get Wrong

“You can’t use it at peak times.”

Not quite. For 16–25 and 26–30 Railcards, there’s only a £12 minimum fare on weekdays before 10am. Let’s be honest, most students aren’t queuing for trains at 7am. No minimum fares at weekends, bank holidays, or in July and August.

“I don’t travel enough to make it worth it.”

Yes, you do. Even two or three return trips in a term usually cover the £35 cost. Get the 3-year version for £80 and it’s basically a no-brainer.

“It won’t work with split tickets.”

Wrong. TrainSplit applies your Railcard discount to every leg of the split. That means the savings stack. That’s how you end up paying less than your mate in the same carriage.

Why It Matters

Uni already means rent, books, nights out, and overdrafts looming. Why waste money on full-price fares? Railcards give you guaranteed savings without changing a thing—you still sit in the same seat.

Don’t start the term overpaying. Grab your Railcard, book through TrainSplit, and spend the difference on things that actually matter... pizza, pints, or maybe even your course books (but probably not).

👉 Buy your Railcard today and book smarter with TrainSplit.


More Splits, More Savings! Find cheaper train tickets by splitting your fares with the TrainSplit app. Download now on iOS or Android—search for TrainSplit in your app store.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do Railcards work with TrainSplit?

Yes. TrainSplit applies your Railcard discount to every leg of your split journey, stacking your savings for maximum value.

Are Railcards valid at peak times?

Mostly yes. 16–25 and 26–30 Railcards have a £12 minimum fare on weekdays before 10am, but no restrictions at weekends, bank holidays, or during July and August.

How much does a Railcard cost?

A 1-year Railcard costs £35, and a 3-year Railcard is £80. Most students make the cost back in just two or three return trips.

Can I buy a Railcard digitally?

Yes. Buy a digital Railcard through TrainSplit and have it ready instantly in the app, so you can travel without carrying a physical card.

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