Getting ready to return to University can be an expensive time, with the ever-growing shopping list of Uni essentials, from pots and pans to books and bedding. But it’s easy to keep your savings on track with these money-saving hacks when you travel by train.

A 16-25 Railcard is a must-have for students looking to save this term. Whether travelling to and from campus, planning weekend trips with your new mates or visiting family, a Railcard will get you there for less without any fuss. And did you know that if you’re over 25 and in full-time education, you can apply for the 16-25 Railcard too? 

To equip students ahead of the new university year, check out our top tips to help you make savings on travels and excursions.  

Always carry your Railcard  

Save 1/3 off most rail fares across Britain with a 16-25 Railcard(external link, opens in a new tab), saving an average of £192 a year on rail fares*.     

At just £30 a year, you can make the cost of your Railcard back in just 1 journey^, whether travelling back home to visit family, making new memories with flatmates, or just exploring the surrounding areas.

Plus, your Railcard doesn’t just save you money on travel. It saves you money with our partners too – on days out, restaurants, hotels and more. Visit railcard.co.uk for more information(external link, opens in a new tab).

Take advantage of Advance Tickets  

Planning ahead for University means taking advantage of half a million Advance train tickets available for less than £10 every week.  

Tickets generally go on sale up to 3 months in advance of when you plan to travel. Couple your Advance ticket with your Railcard(external link, opens in a new tab) for even greater savings!  

Save on days out with National Rail’s Days Out Guide

You can visit leading attractions with fantastic money-saving offers from National Rail’s Days Out Guide(external link, opens in a new tab).

Everyone needs a break from the books! National Rail’s Days Out Guide gives you discounted entry to over 350 attractions nationwide when you travel by train. Check out our faves below and save money while exploring new (or familiar) places in exciting ways!   

Scranchester Tours: Eat The City – A Magnificent Manchester Food Tour  

• Get 20% OFF Scranchester Tours: Eat The City - A Magnificent Manchester Food Tour(external link, opens in a new tab)  

One of the best ways to familiarise yourself with a new city is through its food and drink scene. Save on tickets for this exciting foodie experience and discover your new favourite places to drink and dine!!    

Nearest station: Manchester Piccadilly  

Drink London! Historical Walking Pub Tour  

• Get 2FOR1 tickets to Drink London! Historical Walking Pub Tour (external link, opens in a new tab) 

Enjoy a history lesson like no other! Follow in the footsteps of Shakespeare and Dickens as you adventure through London’s hidden backstreets and take moments for refreshment in some of the city’s most historic pubs, inns and alehouses.  

Nearest station: London Blackfriars  

Thorpe Park Resort   

• Get 1/3 OFF entry to Thorpe Park Resort   (external link, opens in a new tab)

Thrill-seekers will love the record-breaking roller coasters of Thorpe Park. Ride Britain’s fastest coaster, Stealth, or if you’re feeling brave enough, why not try SAW – The Ride?   

Nearest station: Staines  

Alton Towers Resort  

• Get 1/3 OFF entry to Alton Towers Resort(external link, opens in a new tab)  

Discover a world of thrills on over 40 rides and attractions at Alton Towers Resort. Relax with a game of mini golf or enjoy one of their many themed activities, including Halloween and Oktoberfest!  

Nearest station: Uttoxeter