The Complete Guide to Saving on Family Train Travel

Family & Friends Railcard, child fares, and TrainPal deals for cheaper journeys

Joshua Pearson

Published: August 20, 2025

Updated: May 9, 2026

The Complete Guide to Saving on Family Train Travel

Family days out, weekend getaways, visits to loved ones… these are truly some of the best ways to make memories together. But if you’ve ever looked at the cost of train tickets for the whole family, you’ll know that those happy adventures can quickly add up. Between adult fares, child tickets, and the extras that come with travelling with kids, it’s no surprise that many parents start searching for ways to cut costs.

That’s where TrainPal comes in. With smart features like Railcard integration, Split-Ticketing, and clear fare comparisons, TrainPal makes it easier than ever to find savings on family train travel. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from the Family & Friends Railcard to understanding child fares, the best times to book, and a few clever hacks to make your journeys both cheaper and smoother. Because travelling together should be about creating memories, not stressing over the price.

Unlock big savings with the Family & Friends Railcard

When it comes to affordable family train travel, the Family & Friends Railcard is a real game-changer. For one small annual fee, you can unlock huge discounts on almost every journey, whether it’s a weekend getaway, a school holiday adventure, or just visiting relatives.

Who it’s for

This Railcard covers up to four adults and four children aged 5–15 travelling together. The adults don’t even need to be related, grandparents, aunts, uncles, or friends can all benefit, as long as there’s at least one child in the group.

The savings

Adults enjoy 1/3 off train fares, while children get an incredible 60% off. Over the course of a year, these savings can easily add up to hundreds of pounds.

Cost & validity

The Family & Friends Railcard is of incredible value. For just £35 for one year or £80 for three years, you unlock ongoing savings every time you travel. Given the size of the discounts, 1/3 off adult fares and 60% off child fares, the Railcard can pay for itself in as little as one or two family trips.

Opting for the 3-year version not only locks in the lower price long-term but also protects you against any potential future price increases, a smart choice for families who travel regularly.

How to buy

Buying through TrainPal is simple:

Search for the Family & Friends Railcard.
Choose your 1-year or 3-year option.
Enter the passenger information for adults and children, along with how many there will be of each.
Purchase instantly and receive a digital Railcard you can store on your phone.

Integration with TrainPal

Add your Railcard to your TrainPal account once, and the discount will be applied automatically every time you book.

Ready to save? Buy your Family & Friends Railcard directly through TrainPal!

Child train tickets: from free to half-price

Knowing the rules around child train fares can help families make big savings on every trip.

Under 5s travel free

Children under 5 years old can travel completely free when accompanied by a fare-paying adult. This applies to most UK train operators, but a seat isn’t guaranteed unless you book one (which may require paying for a child ticket). For busy services, it’s worth reserving to ensure your little one has their own space.

5–15 year olds

Children aged 5–15 typically get 50% off adult fares across the UK rail network. Combine this with a Family & Friends Railcard, and you can increase the savings to 60% off, making a big dent in the cost of family travel.

Special offers

Some train companies run extra child ticket deals. For example:

ScotRail Kids for a Quid – up to four children travel for £1 each with a paying adult.
Southeastern £1 Child Tickets – valid on certain Off-Peak services.
Thameslink £2 Child Fares – available on select routes.

Always check the conditions, most apply during Off-Peak times and require an accompanying adult ticket.

Tip: For older-looking children, carry proof of age to avoid any disputes during ticket checks.

Maximise your savings

Travelling as a family doesn’t have to mean paying full fare. With a few smart booking strategies, and TrainPal’s help, you can cut the cost of your journeys significantly.

Booking in advance

Advance tickets are released up to 12 weeks before travel and are usually far cheaper than buying on the day. For long-distance family trips, this can mean big savings. TrainPal lets you compare advance fares easily, so you can book the moment they become available.

Off-Peak travel

Off-Peak times, generally outside weekday morning (before 9:30am) and evening (4–7pm) rush hours, offer lower fares and quieter trains. Perfect for families who can travel mid-morning or early afternoon.

Split-Ticketing with TrainPal

TrainPal’s Split-Ticketing feature automatically checks whether buying multiple tickets for different sections of your journey is cheaper, even for family groups. You still travel on the same train, but you pay less.

GroupSave

If you’re travelling as a group of 3–9 adults without a Railcard, some operators offer GroupSave, giving up to 1/3 off adult fares. It can work well for extended families or parents travelling with other adults.

By combining these strategies, TrainPal helps you uncover the lowest possible fare every time.

Making the journey fun: family travel hacks

Travelling by train with children can be a great adventure, with a little preparation, you can make it both stress-free and enjoyable.

Seating & comfort

Reserve seats wherever possible, ideally at a table so the family can sit together. Many trains have designated family zones that offer extra space and a more relaxed atmosphere. If you’re travelling with a pram or buggy, fold it before boarding and use designated storage spaces to keep aisles clear

Entertainment

Bring a mix of activities to keep children engaged, books, colouring pads, travel games, or devices loaded with shows and games (don’t forget a power bank). Snacks are also a great distraction for younger kids.

Food & drink

Buying on-board can be expensive, so pack a picnic. Sandwiches, fruit, and reusable water bottles will save money and keep everyone satisfied.

Luggage management

Pack light to make moving through stations easier. A backpack can be more practical than a suitcase when you need both hands free for children.

Station navigation

Arrive early to avoid rushing. Use station facilities like lifts, baby-changing areas, and family waiting rooms where available. Always check the departure boards in case of platform changes.

Family train travel can be affordable, comfortable, and even fun when you know the best ways to save. From unlocking big discounts with the Family & Friends Railcard, to taking advantage of child fare reductions, booking in advance, and using TrainPal’s Split-Ticketing feature, there are plenty of ways to keep costs down. Add in a few travel hacks and you’ll have smoother, stress-free journeys too.

TrainPal is here to help every step of the way, finding the cheapest fares and making family travel simpler.