Selina Maycock
If you know someone who loves a family day out then a Railcard could make the perfect Christmas gift - here's why.
While buying for your kids is usually pretty simple - the top Christmas toys of the year are always sure to impress - if you're buying for teens or looking for gifts for grandparents it's not always so straightforward. But we've found a gift that works for everyone - and it can be used all year round - so your last-minute Christmas gift search ends here.
Whether you've got kids who are to and from university, a parent who wants to be able to visit their grandkids more often or a family member who's keen to explore every part of Britain, a Railcard will allow them to do all this while saving at least 1/3 of their travel costs for a whole year. From 16-year-olds to 60-year-olds, there's a card for everyone.
The best Railcards to buy this Christmas
- Family & Friends Railcard - £30 for 1 year, £70 for 3 year
s| Trainline
- Two Together Railcard - £30 for 1 year | Trainline
- 16-17 Saver - £30 for 1 year | Trainline
- 16-25 Railcard - £30 for 1 year, £70 for 3 years| Trainline
- 26-30 Railcard - £30 for 1 year | Trainline
- Senior Railcard - 30 for 1 year, £70 for 3 years | Trainline
- Network Railcard - WAS £30 for 1 year | Trainline
How much do Railcards cost?
Railcards usually cost £30 for a year or £70 for three years - though with a third off travel they quickly pay for themselves.
Not sure which Railcard you're eligible for? Use Trainline's Railcard finder. Simply input your age, who you normally travel with and whether you travel in the South East, and it will tell you which Railcard is best for you.
When can I use a Railcard?
How and when you use a Railcard depends on the type you have. As a general rule, all Railcards can be used for discounted train fares during Off-Peak times, weekends, and public holidays.
Some, like the age-related Railcards, can be used during Peak times with a minimum fare, and there's also a Disabled Persons Railcard that can be used at any time.
Where can I travel using a Railcard?
Where you can travel using your Railcard depends on which one you buy. Although, unless you've opted for the Network Railcard (only valid on journeys starting and ending in the South-East Network Railcard zone), you will be able to use it on the vast majority of routes in the UK.
Trainline also offers SNCF Railcards, which allows you to explore France by train on national, regional and local routes - including high-speed trains from Paris train stations. And the great news is they also have SNCF Black Friday deals.
Continue reading
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18 cosy gifts that feel like a big hug in winter - to treat yourself or a loved one.
Everything we know about when the next train strike could be.
