Split Ticketing FAQ'S
Split Ticketing Frequently Asked Questions
What is split ticketing?
Split ticketing, is a practice that allows travellers to save money on UK rail fares by purchasing multiple tickets for a journey instead of just one 'through ticket'. The idea is to break up a long journey into multiple shorter segments, and then purchase tickets for each of those segments separately. This can sometimes result in significant savings, as different parts of the journey may be priced differently. For example, instead of buying a single ticket from London to Edinburgh, a traveller may purchase a ticket from London to York and another ticket from York to Edinburgh. In some cases, this can be cheaper than buying a single through ticket from London to Edinburgh.
Is split ticketing legal?
Under the terms of the National Rail Conditions of Travel section 14, it's completely legal to use a combination of tickets rather than a 'through' ticket if the train(s) you are travelling call (i.e. stop) at each of the points where you split your ticket.
Can I stay in the same seat on my journey even though I need to change tickets?
Where possible, the same seat will be reserved for when passengers remain on the same train as they switch from one ticket to the next. However, when this is not possible travellers may be required to change coach and/or seat part way through their journey. It will be made clear during the booking process when a change of seat is required.
What happens if I need a refund?
The usual refund and exchange rules will apply to each individual ticket that is purchased as part of a set of SplitTix. When purchasing multiple tickets for a journey, be aware that refund and exchange fees will apply to each ticket.
Are split tickets always cheaper?
Advance or Combined categories of SplitTix will only be offered if the split fare is cheaper than the cheapest through fare for the journey in the same class of travel.
Can I exchange my advance split ticket?
Contact us on 01784 254850 for a travel expert to check the exchange conditions.
If I have flexible split tickets, are there any restrictions on what trains I can travel?
When using a flexible split ticket, and taking alternative trains to those originally booked, it is important to ensure that the train will stop at the station(s) where your tickets are split.
If you would not be able to alight from the train at the station where your ticket is valid to, or you would not be able to board the train for the start of your next ticket, then it would not be valid for you to travel on that service.
What happens if I miss a connection when I have split advanced tickets?
When travelling on a split Advance ticket which spans two trains, if the first train is delayed causing you to miss your second train, the Train Operator will typically permit you to travel on the next train service without penalty. (Please note that this policy may vary depending on the Train Company and ticket type. It is always best to check with the Train Company or ticket provider for specific details.)
If, however, you are travelling on a split Advance ticket which ends at the station where you arrive late, and you have a new ticket to start your onward journey for the train service that you have missed, the Train Operator has no obligation to permit you to travel.
What is the difference between a ‘Calling point’ and a ‘board/alight point’?
For a given journey, a ‘calling point’ is a station that the train stops at to let people on and off, but where the traveller remains on the train. Depending on the service, the train may not call at all the stations along the line.
A ‘board or alight point’ (also referred to as an ‘interchange’) is a station at which a traveller changes trains.
Can I use a railcard with split tickets?
Yes. Railcard discounts will be applied where applicable.
Is split ticketing available on Return tickets?
No. Only single split fares will be offered.
If you need assistance with split ticketing, feel free to get in touch with us on 01784 254850.
