Discount categories, and who actually qualifies
Carriers publish a range of reduced fares that many travellers never claim, usually because they do not know they exist. Here is what each one is. We do not sell tickets, so claim these directly when you book.
Railway Travel is an independent rail travel information service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by Amtrak, VIA Rail or any railway operator. Disclaimer
Before the tables
The categories below are published by the carriers themselves. Eligibility rules, discount levels and restrictions are set by them and change without notice, so treat this as a starting point and confirm the current position when you book.
You claim these, not us
Railway Travel does not sell tickets and cannot apply a discount on your behalf. Mention your eligibility when booking with the carrier or provider, and carry valid proof when you travel.
Amtrak discount categories
| Category | Who it is for | Proof usually required |
|---|---|---|
| Senior | Passengers 65 and over | Photo ID showing date of birth |
| Veteran | Verified US military veterans | Veterans Advantage or equivalent verification |
| Active duty military | Active duty personnel and dependants | Military ID |
| Student | Verified students within the published age range | Student verification service |
| Child | Ages 2–12 accompanied by a paying adult | Age may be checked |
| Infant | Under 2, on an adult's lap | Age may be checked |
| Companion | A companion travelling with a passenger with a disability | Varies by carrier |
| Group | Groups above the carrier threshold | Arranged through the group desk |
Discount levels, eligibility and blackout rules are set by the carrier and change without notice. Some discounts cannot be combined with the lowest saver fares. Confirm the current position at the time of booking.
UK Railcards
| Railcard | Who it is for | Typical saving |
|---|---|---|
| Two Together | A named pair travelling together | Around one third off |
| Senior | Passengers 60 and over | Around one third off |
| Family & Friends | Adults travelling with children | Adult and child discounts |
| 16–25 | Ages 16–25, and mature full-time students | Around one third off |
| 26–30 | Ages 26–30 | Around one third off |
| Disabled Persons | Eligible disabled passengers and a companion | Discount for both |
| Network | Travel within the South East of England | Off-peak discount |
Railcards are purchased from the issuing scheme, carry an annual fee and must be carried when travelling. Most have no residency requirement, so overseas visitors can generally use them. Terms are set by the scheme operator.
Three things people get wrong
The biggest percentage is not always the lowest price
A discount applied to a higher fare tier can total more than an undiscounted cheap fare. Compare the actual totals rather than the percentages.
You must carry the proof
Senior, student, veteran and Railcard discounts all require valid documentation at the barrier or on board. Travelling without it can mean paying the full fare again.
Discounts rarely stack
Group rates and individual discounts are usually alternatives rather than additions. Ask which produces the lower total for your particular party.
