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The official retailer of Railcards by National Rail
Get a Railcard
Just a few journeys and it's paid for!
Choose your Railcard
Find your Railcard
Over 20 million people in Great Britain can save with one of our Railcards. Which one will you get?
16-25 Railcard
For those aged 16-25, save a 1/3 off rail fares for days out, seeing family and friends and even festivals!
Senior Railcard
For those aged 60 and over, save 1/3 off rail fares for days out, holidays, seeing family and friends, and theatre trips!
Two Together Railcard
For two named people travelling together, get an average annual saving of £129 plus special partner discounts!
Disabled Persons Railcard
If you have a disability that makes travelling by train difficult, you may qualify for a Disabled Persons Railcard
26-30 Railcard
Valid for those aged 26-30. For just £30, save 1/3 on most rail fares to travel across Britain for a year!
Family & Friends Railcard
Children aged 5-15 get 60% discount on kids fares! Up to four adults and four children can travel on one card.
Network Railcard
For those travelling in the South East, aged 16 or over. Get an average annual saving of £191 plus partner discounts.
For those aged 16 or 17. Enjoy 50% off standard Anytime, Off-Peak, Advance and Season tickets, for just £30 a year.
Veterans Railcard
If you are a veteran of the UK Armed Forces, you may qualify for a Veterans Railcard. Save a 1/3 on most rail fares.
Help me choose
Need help getting or using your Railcard?
Need help? Find out everything you need to know about purchasing, using and renewing your Railcard.
How do I renew my Railcard online?
If you bought your Railcard online, you will be able to renew it when it is within 30 days of the expiry date.
Railcards bought at a train station cannot be renewed online.
What is the digital Railcard download code?
If you bought a digital Railcard, you will need a download code to add your Railcard to your Railcard app.
Your digital Railcard download code will be sent to your registered email address after purchase. You can also generate a new download code by logging into your account.
How do I get cheap train tickets?
With a Railcard you can get 1/3 off the price of most train fares.
This guide contains ways to get cheap train tickets, including getting the most out of your Railcard, finding promotions and booking in advance.
How to do I log into my account?
If you are having trouble logging in or have forgotten your password, follow this guide to quickly get access to your Railcard account.
Can I get a refund due to COVID?
We understand the restrictions due to COVID mean some Railcard customers haven’t made all of the journeys they had planned. After careful consideration the government has confirmed to us that Railcards will remain non-refundable and will not be extended.
BritRail Passes
BritRail provides international visitors to the UK with the freedom to keep to a flexible schedule while traveling throughout British rail’s extensive national network. BritRail’s range of rail passes offers unlimited train trips on each travel day as you journey across England, Scotland and Wales. Choose the BritRail pass that best suits your itinerary and hop on and off the train at exciting destinations like Edinburgh, London and Cardiff! What better way to visit Britain’s historic castles and countless landmarks than by train?
Discover the M-Passes
As the digital answer to rail travel, the M-Pass facilitates seamless travel by downloading your pass to your phone. With flexible and consecutive options to choose from, the M-Pass is easily scanned at the train station to start your journey. Once your purchase has been completed, an email will be sent with your activation code. For consecutive M-Passes you must select your first day of use and flexible M-Passes will select their intended dates of use. Flexible M-Pass holders get the added bonus of one free seat reservation for their trip!
Select your pass
Britrail pass, britrail england pass.
BritRail London Plus Pass
BritRail South West Pass
BritRail Spirit of Scotland Pass
Popular Passes
The best way to explore England, Scotland and Wales is with a BritRail pass, allowing for unlimited train travel on Britain’s National Rail Network! Journey to popular cities throughout Britain while enjoying scenic views of England’s rolling hills, Scottish highlands and Welsh National Parks.
If you’re visiting England, your best bet to travel around the nine distinct regions of this beautiful country is by train. Enjoy coastal destinations like Brighton and vibrant cities including London, Manchester, Liverpool & beyond!
The BritRail South West Pass will bring you to cities in England such as London, Bath, Oxford, and popular destinations along the coast from Plymouth to Penzance! You can also visit Swansea and Cardiff in Wales making this the perfect pass to discover the southwestern region of Britain today!
Travelling the UK with a BritRail Pass
How to apply for or renew your National Entitlement Card
You can use getyournec.scot to apply for, renew and request a replacement National Entitlement Card (NEC). If you cannot submit your request online, please select from the menu if you are enquiring about a 60+ or disabled NEC, or the Young Persons' Free Bus Travel NEC for those under 22.
Local authority contacts for 60+ or disabled scheme
Using the details below, please contact your local authority or Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) who can advise of the current application and renewal process in your area.
Aberdeen City
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633560
- Phone number: 03000 200 293
- Email address: [email protected]
- Aberdeen City website
Aberdeenshire
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633727
- Phone number: 03456 081 208
- Email address: [email protected]
- Aberdeenshire website
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633719
- Phone number: 03452 777 778
- Email address: [email protected]
- Angus website
Argyll & Bute (SPT)
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633297
- Phone number: 0141 333 3211
- Email address: [email protected]
- Argyll & Bute (SPT) website
Clackmannanshire
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633741
- Phone number: 01259 450 000
- Email address: [email protected]
- Clackmannanshire website
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (Western Isles)
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633624
- Phone number: 01851 822 661
- Email address: [email protected]
- Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (Western Isles) website
Dumfries & Galloway
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633670
- Phone number: 030 33 33 3000
- Email address: [email protected]
- Dumfries & Galloway website
Dundee City
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633725
- Phone number: 01382 433 267
- Email address: [email protected]
- Dundee City website
East Ayrshire (SPT)
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633687
- East Ayrshire (SPT) website
East Dunbartonshire (SPT)
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633564
- East Dunbartonshire (SPT) website
East Lothian
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633546
- Phone number: 01620 827 827
- Email address: [email protected]
- East Lothian website
East Renfrewshire (SPT)
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633570
- East Renfrewshire (SPT) website
Edinburgh (City of Edinburgh)
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633668
- Phone number: 0131 200 2351
- Email address: [email protected]
- Edinburgh (City of Edinburgh) website
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633733
- Phone number: 01324 506 607
- Email address: [email protected]
- Falkirk website (Disabled)
- Falkirk website (Over 60)
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633250
- Phone number: 0345 155 0066
- Email address: [email protected]
- Fife website
Glasgow City (SPT)
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633740
- Glasgow City (SPT) website
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633603
- Phone number: 01349 886 604
- Email address: [email protected]
- Highland website
Inverclyde (SPT)
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633744
- Inverclyde (SPT) website
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633678
- Phone number: 0131 561 5455
- Email address: [email protected]
- Midlothian website
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633737
- Phone number: 0300 123 4565
- Email address: [email protected]
- Moray website
North Ayrshire (SPT)
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633279
- North Ayrshire (SPT) website
North Lanarkshire (SPT)
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633284
- North Lanarkshire (SPT) website
Orkney Islands
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633734
- Phone number: 01856 873 535
- Email address: [email protected]
- Orkney Islands website
Perth & Kinross
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633708
- Phone number: 01738 475 000
- Email address: [email protected]
- Perth & Kinross website
Renfrewshire (SPT)
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633289
- Renfrewshire (SPT) website
Scottish Borders
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633743
- Phone number: 0300 100 1800
- Email address: [email protected]
- Scottish Borders website
Shetland Islands
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633679
- Phone number: 01595 744 868
- Email address: [email protected]
- Shetland Islands website
South Ayrshire (SPT)
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633559
- South Ayrshire (SPT) website
South Lanarkshire (SPT)
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633231
- South Lanarkshire (SPT) website
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633739
- Phone number: 01786 237 500
- Email address: [email protected]
- Stirling website
West Dunbartonshire (SPT)
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633511
- West Dunbartonshire (SPT) website
West Lothian
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633285
- Phone number: 01506 280 000
- Email address: [email protected]
- West Lothian website
Local authority contacts for Young Persons’ Free Bus Travel Scheme
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633560
- Phone: 03000 200 292
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633727
- Phone: 03456 081 208
- Email: [email protected]
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633719
- Phone: 03452 777 778
Argyll & Bute
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633297
- Phone: 01546 605 517
- Email address: [email protected]
- Argyll & Bute website
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633741
- Phone: 01259 450 000
- Email: [email protected]
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633624
- Phone: 01851 822 661
- Email for 5-10 year olds: [email protected]
- Email for 11-21 year olds: [email protected]
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633670
- Phone: 0303 333 3000
- Email: [email protected]
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633725
- Phone: 01382 433 267
- Email: [email protected]
East Ayrshire
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633687
- Email: Online contact form
- East Ayrshire website
East Dunbartonshire
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633564
- Phone: 0300 123 4510
- Email: [email protected]
- East Dunbartonshire website
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633546
- Phone: 01620 827 827
- Email: [email protected]
East Renfrewshire
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633570
- Phone: 0141 577 3001
- Email: [email protected]
- East Renfrewshire website
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633668
- Phone: 0131 200 2351
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 01324 506 607
- Email: [email protected]
- Falkirk website
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633250
- Phone: 0345 155 0066
- Email: [email protected]
Glasgow City
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633740
- Phone: 0141 276 0727
- Email: [email protected]
- Glasgow Life website
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633603
- Phone: 01349 886 604
- Email: [email protected]
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633744
- Phone: 01475 715 450
- Email: [email protected]
- Inverclyde website
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633678
- Email: [email protected]
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633737
- Phone: 0300 123 4565
- Email: [email protected]
North Ayrshire
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633279
- Phone: 01294 310 000
- Email: [email protected]
- North Ayrshire website
North Lanarkshire
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633284
- Email for Young Scot cardholders (Age 11+): [email protected]
- Email for age 5-10: [email protected]
- North Lanarkshire website for age 5-15
- North Lanarkshire website for age 16-21
- Phone: 01856 873 535
- Email: [email protected]
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633708
- Phone: 01738 475 000
- Email: [email protected]
Renfrewshire
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633289
- Phone: 0300 300 0209
- Email: [email protected]
- Renfrewshire website
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633743
- Phone: 0300 100 1800
- Email: [email protected]
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633679
- Phone: 01595 744 490
- Email: [email protected]
South Ayrshire
- Phone: 0300 123 0900
- Email: [email protected]
- South Ayrshire website
South Lanarkshire
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633231
- Phone: 0303 123 1015
- Email: [email protected]
- South Lanarkshire website
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633739
- Phone: 01786 233 562
- Email: [email protected]
West Dunbartonshire
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633511
- Phone: 01389 738 282
- Email: [email protected]
- West Dunbartonshire website
- Associated card number (First six digits): 633285
- Phone: 01506 280 150
- Email: [email protected]
Get healthcare cover abroad with a UK GHIC or UK EHIC
The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) lets you get necessary state healthcare in EU countries, and some other countries, on the same basis as a resident of that country. This may be free or it may require a payment equivalent to that which a local resident would pay.
The UK GHIC has replaced the existing European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). If you have an existing EHIC you can continue to use it until the expiry date on the card. Once it expires, you'll need to apply for a UK GHIC to replace it.
You can apply for a new card up to 9 months before your current card expires.
A UK GHIC is free and lasts for up to 5 years. Apply for your new card through the NHS website. Avoid unofficial websites – they may charge you a fee to apply.
If you have rights under the Withdrawal Agreement, you can choose to apply for a new UK EHIC instead.
The UK GHIC is not a replacement for travel insurance. We advise you to have private travel and medical insurance for the duration of your trip.
We also recommend you check FCDO travel advice on GOV.UK for the country you're visiting.
You can apply for a UK GHIC if you're a resident in the UK. You can also add your family members to your application when you apply.
You'll need to provide your:
- date of birth
- National Insurance or NHS number (if you're from England or Wales)
- CHI number (if you're from Scotland)
- Health and Care number (if you're from Northern Ireland)
Applying for family members
Every member of your family needs their own card. You can add your spouse, civil partner and children to your application when you apply. You must enter your own details first and apply for any additional cards when prompted.
If you've already completed your application and want to add additional family members contact NHS Overseas Healthcare Services . You'll need to give us your reference number, name, date of birth and address so we can access your record.
After you apply
After you've submitted your application, we'll email you within 24 hours to let you know whether it has been approved or not (if you don't get a reply, check your junk folder). We may need to see additional information or documents before approving it.
Once your application has been approved, you should receive your new card within 15 working days. It will be sent to you by post.
If you do not receive it before you travel, and need medically necessary treatment during your visit, you can apply for a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC) to get temporary cover. For more information, see "If you don't have your card with you" towards the end of this page.
If you have rights under the Withdrawal Agreement
If you have rights under the Withdrawal Agreement, you can choose to apply for a new UK EHIC rather than a UK GHIC. A UK EHIC provides cover for some countries that are not currently covered by the UK GHIC (these are Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein). Like the UK GHIC, it's free and lasts up to 5 years. You can find out if you have rights under the Withdrawal Agreement on GOV.UK.
What your card covers
You can use your card to get state healthcare that cannot reasonably wait until you come back to the UK (sometimes called "medically necessary healthcare"). This includes things like:
- emergency treatment and visits to A&E
- treatment or routine medical care for long-term or pre-existing medical conditions
- routine maternity care, as long as you're not going abroad to give birth
You'll need to pre-arrange some treatments with the relevant healthcare provider in the country you're visiting – for example, kidney dialysis or chemotherapy – as it's not guaranteed that local healthcare providers will always have the capacity to provide this care.
Whether treatment is medically necessary is decided by the healthcare provider in the country you're visiting.
Not all state healthcare is free outside of the UK. You may have to pay for treatment that you would get for free on the NHS, if a local resident would be expected to pay in the country you're visiting.
Before travelling, you should check the state-provided healthcare services in the country you're visiting and any potential charges you may face.
Check the relevant country guide on GOV.UK for information on how to access treatment in the country you're visiting
What your card does not cover
A UK GHIC (or UK EHIC) does not replace travel and medical insurance or cover services like:
- being flown back to the UK (medical repatriation)
- treatment in a private medical facility
- ski or mountain rescue
We advise that you have a UK GHIC (or UK EHIC) and private travel and medical insurance for the duration of your trip.
Where you can use your card
You can use a UK GHIC when you're visiting:
- an EU country ( see a list of EU countries on GOV.UK )
- Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man
- St Helena, Tristan and Ascension
You can use a UK GHIC in Switzerland if you're one of the following:
- a British national
- a Swiss national
- an EU citizen
- a stateless person
- a family member of someone who holds one of the above nationalities or statuses
The UK government is negotiating with other countries to expand the use of the UK GHIC, so always check coverage before you travel.
You can use a UK EHIC when you're visiting:
- Liechtenstein
- Switzerland
Visiting Norway
You can use a UK passport to get medically necessary healthcare in Norway if you're a UK resident.
Visiting Montenegro
You can get free emergency treatment in Montenegro but you'll have to pay for your prescribed medicines and for other medical treatment.
If you're a UK national, your UK passport will give you access to emergency healthcare in Montenegro.
If you're a UK resident but not a UK national you'll need your passport and a UK GHIC (or UK EHIC) to get emergency healthcare.
Getting healthcare in other countries
You'll have to pay for treatment unless the UK has a healthcare agreement with that country .
Check if you're eligible for a UK GHIC
You'll be entitled to a UK GHIC if both of these things apply:
- you're ordinarily and legally resident in the UK
- you do not have healthcare cover provided by an EU country or Switzerland
There is information about what "ordinarily resident" means on GOV.UK
You may also be entitled to a UK GHIC if you're:
- living in the EU or Switzerland with a registered S1 form
- living in the EU or Switzerland with an A1 document issued by the UK
- a family member or dependant of an entitled individual already listed
Check if you're eligible for a UK EHIC
You may be eligible for a new UK EHIC if you meet one of the following criteria:
- you're living in the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein, and have been since before 1 January 2021 with a registered S1, E121, E106 or E109 form issued by the UK
- you're living in the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein since before 1 January 2021 with an A1 issued by the UK
- you're a national of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein who has legally resided in the UK since before 1 January 2021 and are covered under the Withdrawal Agreement – you may not be covered if you are also a UK national or if you were born in the UK
- you're a family member or dependant of an entitled individual already listed
If your circumstances change and you no longer meet one of the above criteria, you may not be entitled to continue using the card and should contact NHS Overseas Healthcare Services .
You must be entitled to use your UK GHIC or UK EHIC at the time of the treatment. If you use it to access healthcare that you're not entitled to, you may be liable for the full cost of all treatment received or face prosecution.
Applying for a UK Student EHIC or UK GHIC
To apply for a UK Student EHIC or UK GHIC, you'll need a letter from your university or college showing:
- the name and address of the UK educational institution if you're travelling as part of your course
- the address of where you're studying in the EU or Switzerland
- details of the qualification you're studying for
- the dates your study period in the EU, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Switzerland started and is due to finish
- your permanent residential address in the UK
If the letter from your university or college does not include your permanent residential address in the UK, you'll be asked to provide further evidence to confirm this.
This is in addition to the information set out in "How to apply" above.
Students studying in the EU, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland applying for a UK Student EHIC or UK GHIC
If you normally live in the UK and have been studying in the EU, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland since before 1 January 2021, you may be eligible for a new UK Student EHIC for use in the EU and your country of study.
You will not be able to use this card for treatment in Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein unless one of these countries is your country of study.
If you started your course after 1 January 2021, or you're planning to study in an EU country, you'll need to apply for a UK Student GHIC. If you're studying in Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein you can also apply for a UK GHIC but it will not cover you for treatment in those countries, even if you are studying there.
You can use the UK Student GHIC in the EU, Switzerland and your country of study, but not yet in Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein.
Using a UK GHIC (or UK EHIC) when abroad
You should take your UK GHIC (or UK EHIC) with you when you travel abroad. If you need medically necessary treatment, you'll need to present the card to the hospital (or other service provider) that is treating you – make sure that you are being treated at a public health provider and not a private one. Keep all receipts and paperwork.
Depending on the country you visit you may be expected to pay all or part of your bill upfront and then claim a refund afterwards.
Some countries ask patients to pay a contribution towards the cost of their care. This is known as a co-payment or patient share. You can claim back the difference between the total bill and the co-payment, but the actual co-payment is not refundable.
Your UK GHIC or UK EHIC will not cover costs that a local resident would have to pay.
If you don't have your card with you
If you need emergency treatment when you're in another country and do not have your UK GHIC (or UK EHIC) with you, you can apply for a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC). A PRC gives you the same level of cover as a UK GHIC or UK EHIC.
A PRC also covers you if you've applied for a UK GHIC or UK EHIC and it has not arrived yet.
Find out more about PRCs and how to apply for one
You'll need to pay in full for treatment if you do not have a UK GHIC, UK EHIC or PRC. You should ask for a copy of your invoice and obtain a receipt.
How to claim a refund
To claim a refund for healthcare covered by your UK GHIC or UK EHIC, you'll need to download and fill in a refund claim form and send it to NHS Overseas Healthcare Services. You should include receipts and any supporting documents with your claim form.
Find out how to claim a refund for healthcare covered by your UK GHIC or UK EHIC
Incorrect charges for treatment
If you think you've been incorrectly charged for medical treatment, contact NHS Overseas Healthcare Services .
Keep all documents relating to your treatment. You may need to provide more information to confirm your eligibility and the cost of the treatment you had. This could include:
- receipts or invoices relating to treatment
- confirmation that the treatment was state-provided
- confirmation of payments made to healthcare institutions
- documents relating to insurance cover if your insurer paid for treatment
- discharge documents
NHS Overseas Healthcare Services will look at your claim to decide whether you were charged when you should have been covered. If they determine that your treatment should have been covered by the UK GHIC or UK EHIC, they'll reimburse you or your insurer for the costs of treatment that are covered by your card.
If you suspect GHIC or EHIC fraud
If you suspect that somebody has fraudulently applied for or used a UK GHIC or UK EHIC they are not entitled to, you can report this to the NHS Counter Fraud Authority .
Alternatively, you can email your concern to us at [email protected] .
Page last reviewed: 12 December 2023 Next review due: 12 December 2026
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Travel Cards: What are the best options in the UK? 2024
If you’re expecting to spend overseas - on holiday, when shopping online with international retailers, or even because you’re relocating to sunnier climes - you’ll want to find the cheapest and most convenient way to manage your money.
One option is to pick an international debit card - but are they really worth it? This guide covers all you need to know about:
How international debit cards can help cut bank fees and get a better exchange rate
What advantages there are to having an international debit card compared to a regular bank card
How international debit cards work
Which are the best travel and international debit cards available in the UK
Let’s dive right in.
Our Top 4 Travel Debit Cards in the UK:
Wise Travel Card
Post Office Travel Card
ASDA Travel Card
Sainsbury's Travel Card
Travel debit cards: the best options in the UK
How do travel cards work.
Travel debit cards allow you to spend and make withdrawals in a foreign currency easily - and often, for a lower fee compared to using a regular bank debit or credit card.
That means you can use your travel debit card when you travel internationally, to pay for your accommodation, food, shopping - and whatever else you plan to do. You can use your card to make cash withdrawals overseas to make sure you always have a ready supply of foreign currency for when cards aren’t accepted. And finally, you can use your travel card when you shop online with international retailers, to cut the costs of foreign transaction fees.
Types of travel card
You’ll find that there are 3 main types of travel cards that traditional banks offer : prepaid cards, debit cards, and credit cards. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages - make sure you research carefully to find the cheapest option for your spending. Here’s a rundown of some common travel card options for UK customers.
1. Prepaid travel card
Prepaid travel cards - also often known as travel money cards - are offered by a wide range of providers. You’ll top up your card in pounds before you travel, and then you can use your card to spend or make withdrawals when you’re away. Some cards also allow you to add funds online, so you can top up your card after you leave too.
Different prepaid travel cards have their own fee structures, with some charging for top ups, or having ongoing maintenance fees. Check out all the details, including the exchange rates available before you pick one.
2. International card with traditional banks
Most UK based banks which offer a linked debit card will allow you to spend and make withdrawals around the world. However, it’s extremely common to find that there are some extra fees to spend in a foreign currency - often including an exchange rate markup or foreign transaction fee of around 3%.
In the UK you can find the occasional bank or building society which offers a linked debit card with no foreign transaction fee - like the Virgin Money M Plus account, or the Cumberland Building Society Plus Account. However, these specialist accounts do often have other restrictive terms such as minimum balance requirements, or high transaction fees for other services.
You can also choose to spend internationally with your bank issued credit card - but this does risk higher overall fees once you take into account credit costs and any cash advance fees you run into, on top of foreign transaction charges.
3. Travel card with neobanks
You’ll often find that a travel card from a modern online provider - often called a neobank - is the cheapest and most convenient option. Accounts are usually simple to set up, and it’s easy to order your card online or in the provider app. Once you’re up and running you’ll often find you get a better exchange rate than the rate offered by your normal bank - or even the mid-market exchange rate with no markup at all.
Because neobanks are often specialists which operate online and don’t have the same overheads as traditional banks, you can often net a better deal, including no minimum balance requirements, ongoing charges or maintenance costs.
Best travel debit cards: a comparison
Shopping around is the best way to get the right travel card for your needs. There are several travel card providers in the UK which can offer a better deal compared to traditional banks, including online specialist services like Wise. Here’s a more detailed look at some of our top picks.
The Wise card allows you to make payments in more than 200 countries and in more than 150 currencies. Your card is linked to a handy Wise multi-currency account, which lets you hold, convert, send and spend in dozens of currencies, and manage your money on the go from your smartphone.
Pros of the Wise card
No minimum balance or ongoing charges
Hold and exchange 50+ currencies in your Wise account
Auto convert feature will make sure you always get the best possible deal on currency conversion
Manage your card in the Wise app, to freeze and unfreeze the card and get instant transaction notifications
Physical and virtual cards available
Cons of the Wise card
5 GBP fee for your first card
ATM fees apply if you make frequent withdrawals
Spending limits apply
No option to top up account in cash
Post office travel card
Apply for a Post Office travel card online, or by visiting your local Post Office branch with a government issued ID document. You’ll be able to hold 23 currencies in your account, and it’s free to spend any supported currency. Contactless and mobile payments are supported - but there are some fees you’ll need to watch out for, including ATM withdrawal charges.
Pros of the Post Office travel money card
Apply online or in person
Hold and exchange 23 currencies
No fee to spend currencies you hold in the account
Cons of the Post Office travel money card
3% foreign transaction fee if you spend in an unsupported currency
Cash withdrawal fees apply which vary by currency
Monthly maintenance fees apply from 12 months after your card applies
Read our full Post Office travel card review .
ASDA Money Travel Card
You can order an ASDA Money Travel Card online or by visiting a store which has an ASDA Money bureau. Your travel card can hold 16 currencies, and it’s free to spend in any of these currencies, including making ATM withdrawals. It’s worth noting that topping up your account in pounds comes with a fee, and there’s a steep charge for spending in a currency not supported by the card, so you’ll want to double check the currencies you require are all covered.
Pros of the ASDA travel card
24/7 global assistance
Hold up to 16 currencies
Contactless payments supported
No fee for ATM withdrawals
Cons of the ASDA travel card
2% fee to top up in pounds
High fees of 5.75% if you spend in a currency not supported by the card
Inactivity fees of 2 GBP/month apply after 12 months
Sainsbury Bank travel money card
It’s free to get the Sainsbury’s travel card, and it’s free and easy to make contactless payments in any of the 10 supported foreign currencies. You can also make ATM withdrawals in supported currencies without being charged a fee by Sainsbury’s. There are a few costs to watch out for though, including a GBP reload fee, and a high foreign transaction fee if you’re spending in any currency other than the 10 supported currencies.
Pros of the Sainsbury Bank travel money card
Hold up to 10 foreign currencies
Free to spend any currency you hold
Card will deduct funds from the correct balance when you spend in a supported currency, to avoid unnecessary fees
Cons of the Sainsbury Bank travel money card
Inactivity fees of 2 GBP/month apply after 18 months
Advantages of the travel debit cards
Getting an international debit card can be a good alternative to using traditional bank cards to spend money abroad. Advantages include:
Top up your account or card in advance to set a travel budget
Know the exchange rates in advance so there are no surprises
No need to tell your bank you’re travelling
Manage your money online or in an app for convenience
Overall costs are often far lower compared to using a bank
Are there any limitations on travel debit cards?
Travel debit cards aren’t right for everyone - here are a few drawbacks to consider:
Spending currencies not supported by the card can incur fees
You can’t always use your travel card for car rental as it’s not likely to have a credit facility
Some transactions - like paying at the pump for petrol - may result in a hold on funds within your account
Adding funds to your account may not be instant
How does a travel card work?
A travel debit card works similarly to a normal bank debit card in some ways:
Pay with your card directly with merchants - often with contactless functionality
Withdraw cash when you need it from ATMs
Check your balance online, in an app, or via an ATM easily to keep an eye on your money
Funds are deducted from your balance so there’s no worry about running up credit charges
However, travel debit cards have a few distinct advantages compared to regular bank cards:
Cards can often be ordered easily online or by phone
Top up your account whenever you like, to create a separate travel budget
Convert your pounds to foreign currencies in advance so you know the exchange rate before you spend
You’ll often get a better exchange rate compared to a bank, with lower transaction fees
There’s no need to tell the card issuer that you plan to travel
How can I use a travel debit card abroad?
Once you have your travel debit card, you’ll be able to start spending. You’ll need to double check that the merchant or ATM accepts the card network your card uses - Visa and Mastercard are most common, and are widely accepted internationally. You’ll also need to read through the card terms and conditions to make sure you’re aware of any fees that the card issuer applies when you spend or make withdrawals
One other important point when using an international travel card is to watch out for dynamic currency conversion (DCC). That’s when you’re asked by a merchant, or at an ATM terminal, if you’d rather pay in pounds or the local currency wherever you are. If you choose to pay in pounds you’ll usually be hit by high fees and a poor exchange rate - well worth avoiding if you want to make the most of your travel money. Always choose to pay in the local currency to get the best possible deal when spending or withdrawing with your travel card.
How to request a travel debit card
If you’re looking for a specialist travel debit card which lets you spend conveniently while cutting your costs, you may find the best available deal from an online provider such as Wise or Revolut . Signing up for an account is pretty painless, and can be done entirely online or through an app - and you’ll usually find the fees are lower compared to a traditional bank, too.
To show how easy it is, let’s take a look at how to sign up for a Wise card - we’ll cover Wise and a few other top UK travel debit card options in more detail, later:
Download the Wise app or head to the Wise desktop site
Sign up for a Wise account with just an email address, Google, Facebook or Apple ID
Get verified by uploading a photo of your ID documents
Order your card online or in the Wise app for a one time 5 GBP fee
Your physical card will arrive within a few days - or you can access your card details in the Wise app right away for mobile payments
What are the transaction fees which apply to a travel card?
Travel debit cards can offer a better deal when you spend in foreign currencies - but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re entirely free. Here are a couple of the key costs to consider.
Exchange fee
Some travel debit cards will convert your money from pounds to the currency you need with an exchange rate that includes a fee. This may be described as a foreign transaction fee, or a currency conversion charge, for example. For traditional banks this can often be in the region of 3% of the transaction value, although modern online providers do often offer a better deal, and may even skip this fee entirely.
Withdrawal fee
If you plan on making cash withdrawals you’ll also need to check the costs applied by your own bank, and keep an eye on the ATM to make sure the ATM operator won’t also levy a fee. ATM withdrawal fees do vary pretty widely. Some banks offer low, or fee free withdrawals at selected ATMs, but out of network charges can be steep. Again, online travel debit cards may have a more flexible approach to withdrawal fees which can save you money.
Conclusion: is the travel debit card worth it?
Picking the right travel debit card can mean cutting the costs of spending in a foreign currency, with lower transaction fees and a better exchange rate. However, different travel debit cards have their own advantages and disadvantages, with varying fee structures and a range of supported currencies. Compare a few cards, including travel debit cards from online specialist providers like Wise , to find the right one for you.
An international debit card lets you spend and make cash withdrawals in a range of foreign currencies - often with lower fees than using your normal bank card.
Many online and specialist providers allow you to apply for a card easily through a desktop site, app or call centre.
Use your travel debit card just like you would your regular card, to spend and make cash withdrawals around the world.
Travel debit card fees do vary based on the provider, and can include a foreign transaction fee when spending in an unsupported currency, top up charges and inactivity fees. Compare a few providers to get the best available deal for your needs.
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Need help getting or using your Railcard?
Need help? Can't figure out what card to buy? Or just have a question?
Can I use my Senior Railcard at any time of day?
Your Railcard is not valid during the morning peak period when travelling between two stations in the Network Railcard area of validity. Check locally to confirm morning peak times as these do differ. This restriction does not apply on public holidays.
How do I purchase my Railcard online?
Please click ‘’Buy Now’’ on the website homepage and follow the instructions on the screen. You will need to provide a valid passport or UK driving licence or National Identity number to verify your date of birth online and a digital passport-style photo if you have selected ‘Digital’ under ‘Choose the type of Railcard you would like’ section.
If you have ordered a plastic Senior Railcard, please allow 5 working days for delivery. You can choose to pay for ‘Special Delivery’, but you will have to place your order before 15:45pm to guarantee that your Railcard is delivered within two days (Monday to Thursday) or three days (Friday to Sunday).
If you have ordered a digital Railcard, a download code will be sent to your registered email address, along with instructions on how to download your Railcard.
You will not be able to travel on discounted tickets until you have your Railcard.
What is a digital Railcard?
Digital Railcards are stored within the Railcard app on your smart phone or tablet, meaning there’s no need to carry the physical card around with you. They can be stored on up to two devices and used quicker than plastic Railcards as they do not need to be sent in the post.
Click here for more information on managing your Railcard
Can I buy a Senior Railcard in advance of my 60th birthday?
If you order online then yes, you can order one up to 14 days in advance of your 60th birthday. Please note that you cannot buy Railcards in advance of your 60th birthday from rail stations.
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Benefits and Entitlements
If you're 60 or over or you have a disability, you might be eligible for public transport concessions – from discounts on your rail journeys to a free bus pass.
What transport concessions are available?
Can i get a free bus pass, can i get a discount on rail travel, can i get a london freedom pass, what if i have difficulty using public transport, what if i'm unable to use public transport.
There are several national public transport concessions available to older and disabled people. Some entitle you to discounts on your fares, while others allow you to travel for free.
Eligibility for these concessions depends on whether you have a disability or your age.
Depending on your age and your circumstances, you might be able to get one of the following free bus passes, which allow you to travel free on local buses:
- an older person's bus pass
- a disabled person's bus pass
What age do I have to be to get an older person's bus pass?
You can get an older person's bus pass when you reach State Pension age, which is currently 66 for both women and men.
Apply for your older person's bus pass on GOV.UK
If you're 60 or over and live in London, then you can get free travel on buses, trains and other modes of transport in and around London with a 60+ London Oyster photocard.
Apply for your 60+ London Oyster photocard on the TFL website
How can I get a disabled person's bus pass?
There's no central provider of the disabled person's bus pass – to find out if you're eligible and how to apply, you need to get in touch with your local council.
Find your local council and apply for a disabled person's bus pass on GOV.UK
Are there any other discounts if I'm an older person or I'm disabled?
It's a good idea to contact individual transport operators to see if they offer discounts.
For instance, National Express offers Coachcards. These are discount cards for older or disabled customers. You buy them for a set fee of £12.50 and they get you a third off the cost of your travel across the year.
Find out more and order a Coachcard on the National Express website
Depending on your age and circumstances, you might be entitled to one of the below railcards:
- a Senior Railcard
- a Disabled Person's Railcard
Both railcards are discount cards. You buy them for a set fee to last either 1 or 3 years and they get you a third off the cost of your train travel.
Can I get a Senior Railcard?
The Senior Railcard is available for anyone aged 60 or over to buy.
You can apply on the Senior Railcard website using a valid passport or UK driving licence as ID. Alternatively, you can apply in person at most staffed railway stations.
Find out more about the Senior Railcard and apply online
Can I get a Disabled Person's Railcard?
The Disabled Person's Railcard is available to you if you meet one of the following criteria:
- you're registered as deaf or use a hearing aid
- you're registered as having a visual impairment
- you have epilepsy
- you receive a disability-related benefit, such as Personal Independence Payment
- you receive War or Service Disablement pension
- you receive Attendance Allowance
- you receive Severe Disablement Allowance
- you receive War Pensioner's mobility supplement
Find out more about the Disabled Person's Railcard and apply online
Freedom Passes give London residents free travel in the city – including National Rail services, the Underground, buses, river services and trams – and free local bus journeys nationally.
If you live in London, you can apply for a Freedom Pass if one of the following applies to you:
- you've reached State Pension age
- you have a disability.
Find out more about Freedom Passes and apply on the London Councils website
National Rail has an interactive tool called Stations Made Easy, designed to help people find their way around stations and find more accessible routes, avoiding potential difficulties like stairs. This may be helpful if you have difficulty using public transport because of your health.
Find out more and use the tool on the National Rail website
If you're disabled, you can't use public transport, or you don't have access to a car, you might also be able to use a community transport scheme – such as a social car, dial-a-ride, or taxicard scheme.
Shopmobility schemes help people shop in town centres by lending out wheelchairs and scooters. Some local councils also offer concessions on local public transport.
To find out what's available in your area, you can contact your local council or your local Age UK.
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Last updated: Apr 14 2023
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Your Open Dated Return is valid for 3 months from your outbound journey. To guarantee your seat on your return you need to confirm your ticket before you travel on www.nationalexpress.com/en/help/tickets/open-returns or call 0371 781 8181.
Open Dated Return Information
If your return date is not yet known, open return tickets provide flexibility. When travelling within the UK, the return journey can be made within 3 months of the outward date of travel. To guarantee your seat on your return journey you need to confirm your ticket before you travel by visiting www.nationalexpress.com/en/help/tickets/open-returns or call us on 03717 81 81 81. Lines open 7 days a week, 8am - 8pm (calls to this number are charged at local rate). Valid on any day throughout the year.
Open returns are not available on European journeys.
Wheelchair accessibility
Accessible coaches.
The majority of stops along the routes listed below are accessible to wheelchair users but are subject to change. Please call us to check the latest situation before booking and at least 36 hours in advance of when you would like to travel.
To see a list of accessible coach routes please visit our Accessibility page.
Assisted Travel Helpline
If you are travelling in a wheelchair or require assistance, please call our helpline before booking and at least 36 hours in advance of when you would like to travel.
03717 81 81 81 - ( option 3) (lines open 8am - 8pm 7 days a week). Calls to this number are charged at local rate.
For more information please visit our Disabled travellers page.
Passengers & Wheelchair accessibility
Passenger descriptions.
Our passenger descriptions are designed to help you choose the right ticket for yourself or your fellow travellers.
Adult (16+) and Children (3-15)
Children under 14 cannot travel alone unless accompanied by an adult (16+). Please note, you may be required to show proof of age at any point during your journey. Failure to do so, may result in the full adult fare being charged.
Children (3-15)
Children under 14 cannot travel alone unless accompanied by a responsible adult (16+).
Disabled Children
Should be booked as Children. If they are travelling in a wheelchair or require assistance, please call our Assisted Travel Helpline.
We strongly recommend that you bring a car seat appropriate to your child's age, but ask you to take responsibility to fit the seat.
Booster Seats
Children aged between approximately 4-11 years old, or up to 150cm tall, may use booster seats. We carry a limited number onboard most coaches.
If travelling with a child, you may be required to show proof of age when buying tickets or at any point during your journey. Failure to do so may result in the child being required to pay the full fare for the journey on that day.
Booster seats
Children aged between approximately 4 years and 11 years or up to 150cm tall may use booster seats, we carry a limited number onboard most coaches along with our comfort fit seat belts.
Disabled children should be booked as children rather than 'Disabled'. If they are travelling in a wheelchair or you wish to book assistance with travel please call our Assisted Travel Helpline before booking and at least 36 hours in advance of when you would like to travel.
You can find a list of accessible coach stops on our Accessibility page .
Please call us 36 hours prior to travelling to check the latest status.
If you are travelling in a wheelchair or require assistance we recommend that you contact us on the following local rate telephone number: 03717 81 81 81 (lines open 8am - 8pm 7 days a week) 36 hours in advance of when you would like to travel.
Adult (26 - 59)
Adult fares are applicable to all passengers aged between of 26 and 59 inclusive.
Child 0 - 12 inclusive
Children aged 12 or under travelling on any European service must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over.
Unaccompanied children will not be carried
Young persons (13 - 25)
Children under the age of 16 are not permitted to travel on any European service unless accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over.
Young persons aged 16 or 17 years can travel alone on European services but only if they have a letter of authority from a parent or guardian.
Senior (60 and over)
Passengers aged 60 and over are entitled to receive a small discount on European journeys. On European journeys a 50% discount is given to carers, please call us on 08717 818177 to book.
Please select your passenger type first and then add your coachcards.
We have three different Coachcards available, each offering savings of 1/3 on all of our Standard and Fully Flexible coach fares all year round.
Prices shown include your coachcard discount, your coachcard number will be required during the booking process.
Adult fares are applicable to all passengers aged 2+. Adults under the age of 16 are not permitted to travel alone on any European service unless accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over or they have a letter of authority from a parent or guardian.
Infants 0-1 Inclusive
Children aged under the age of 2, must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over. Unaccompanied children will not be carried.
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Consumer card spending, flow of spending across the UK:
Analysis of consumer card spending trends covering where UK cardholders are spending money.
Consumer card spending, flow of spending across the UK: 2019 to 2023
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