Family Travel Tips: How to Save Money on Train Journeys with Kids

Train travel with kids can truly be a magical experience, where both parents and children can relax and enjoy the journey. And here’s the best part: it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

With a bit of planning, you can save money while ensuring a comfortable ride for your little ones. From early booking discounts to services like Split My Fare, where you can share ticket costs with other travellers, there are several tricks to make your family’s train travel both affordable and enjoyable.

Let’s see how you can turn your next train journey into an unforgettable family adventure without breaking the bank.

10 Ways to Save Money on Train Journeys with Kids

With all the comfort and benefits that train travel offers, it’s a great way to travel with your kids. Let’s dive into some easy tips to help you save money and enjoy a stress-free trip.

1. Book Early for the Best Prices

As you plan your family getaway, one of the best ways to save money is by booking your tickets in advance. If you book your tickets early, you can relax knowing you’ve avoided the high prices that usually come with last-minute bookings. The sooner you make your reservation, the better the prices you’ll find.

Booking early not only guarantees you a seat but also opens up the door to early bird discounts. For families, this is a game changer. Train companies often offer discounted rates for tickets booked well in advance, meaning you can save money for that fun activity you’ve been eyeing at your destination. Don’t wait—grab those tickets and ensure your family travels at a fraction of the cost.

2. Use Fare Splitter Services to Save Even More

Let’s say you’re a family of four, or maybe you’re travelling with friends or extended family. Normally, each person would buy their own ticket, which can quickly add up. That’s where fare-splitting services come in. Instead of paying for individual tickets, you can share the cost of a single ticket.

Here’s how it works: You book your tickets through a fare-splitting service, which allows you to divide the total fare between all passengers in your group. This means, for example, that a family of four could split the cost of a single journey, making it much more affordable for everyone.

It’s like sharing a carpool—except you’re enjoying the spacious, comfortable setting of a train rather than a cramped car. The result? Significant savings while travelling together. It’s a win-win!

3. Look for Family-Friendly Train Discounts and Offers

When you’re travelling with kids, the discounts offered by train companies can be a huge relief. In fact, many operators in the UK have great deals for families, where kids travel for free or at a very reduced rate. For example, a family ticket could allow two adults to bring up to four children for a fraction of the regular price.

Beyond just regular deals, consider investing in a Family and Friends Railcard, which gives families up to 33% off adult fares and 60% off for children. Imagine having that extra money to spend on a nice meal once you arrive at your destination!

Train operators often offer seasonal promotions around holidays, half-terms, and long weekends. By planning ahead and signing up for email newsletters and fare alerts, you can stay updated on the latest deals, ensuring your family trip remains affordable.

4. Make the Most of Flexible Ticketing

Life with kids often means that plans may change at the last minute. One minute, everything is going as scheduled, and the next, you’re running late or need to change your travel times. Flexible tickets can be a lifesaver in these situations.

Flexible tickets allow you to change your journey times without penalties. If you miss your train, you’re not stuck with expensive rebooking fees. The added flexibility can make your trip more relaxing, knowing that you won’t have to worry about last-minute changes.