How To Save Money by Using Trains When Travelling

Look, I love a good road trip as much as the next backpack-wielding wanderluster, but there’s just something about train travel that gets me every time. Maybe it's the rhythmic clack-clack of the tracks, or the fact that you can actually stretch your legs and walk to a café car like a functioning human (unlike in economy class, cough).

But you know what’s even better than the charm of train travel? The fact that it's often waaay cheaper than flying or renting a car – if you know a few tricks. So if you're dreaming of a rail tour across scenic landscapes without your wallet crying in the background, here's how to do it right:

Book Your Tickets in Advance

Yes, I know — this one sounds boring and obvious, but hear me out: booking early really pays off. Most European rail operators (hello, Deutsche Bahn and Renfe) offer serious discounts for early birds. That same ticket that costs €19 three weeks out? It'll be €79 if you book the day before while panic-eating a croissant.

So unless spontaneity is your middle name (and your bank account can handle it), plan ahead.

Be Flexible with Your Dates and Times

Traveling on a Friday at 17:00? You and 847 businesspeople are all after that same seat. Instead, try booking your journey midweek or outside of peak hours. Think Tuesday mornings or late-night rides. Not only are the prices friendlier, but you’re also less likely to be stuck next to someone who’s watching TikToks on full volume.

Slow and Steady Wins the Wallet

High-speed trains are cool and all, but if you’re not in a rush, slower or indirect routes can be a goldmine for budget travelers.

I once took a five-hour train through rural Poland instead of a direct express — and not only did I save €25, I also met a retired school teacher who shared her homemade cake with me. Win-win.

Get Yourself a Rail Pass or Discount Card

Planning a full-blown rail tour across Europe or beyond? Grab a Eurail pass, Interrail (if you're EU-based), or a country-specific rail card. They look pricey at first glance, but when you divide the cost over multiple journeys, it’s usually a sweet deal.

And if you’re under 26, a student, or even just someone who loves saving money (aka everyone?), don’t forget to check for extra discounts. Rail companies love rewarding the organized and mildly nerdy among us.

Pack Snacks Like a Pro

Unless you're in Japan (where train food is basically gourmet), train meals can be… let’s say, uninspiring and overpriced. I’ve learned the hard way that €8 for a soggy sandwich is not money well spent.

So channel your inner meal prepper and pack sandwiches, fruit, snacks, or whatever weird snack combo you love. Bonus points if you bring a little picnic and pretend you’re in an old romantic film.

Get to the Station on the Cheap

Don’t blow your budget just getting to the train station. Taxis and Ubers are convenient, but public transport is your BFF when it comes to keeping costs low. Plus, using the subway or a city bus will make you feel more local — and that’s what slow travel is all about, right?

Sleep Smart

One of the best parts about train travel is you can actually sleep while you're moving (unless someone’s baby disagrees — been there). If you're crossing countries overnight, look into sleeper trains. They might cost a bit more than a regular ticket, but you save on accommodation, and wake up in a new city. Magic.

And for stopovers or shorter stays, try finding budget-friendly stays close to the station. That way you’re not dragging your suitcase through cobblestone alleys like a lost tourist trying to make the 7 a.m. train.

Train travel = scenic, sustainable, AND affordable — if you do it right.
So next time you’re planning a trip, consider ditching the budget airline shuffle and embracing the rails instead. If you're a digital nomad like me, you can even manage to squeeze in a bit of work while watching the world roll by.