There are a few ways to make sure you have all the proof you need that you should deserve a refund
People may not be aware that they could be entitled to a refund for more than just a delayed train service. If you are forced to give up a seat that you’ve specifically paid for, then you could be eligible for some compensation.
Train ticket prices vary across the UK, ranging from a few pounds to several hundred pounds, depending on the specific route and time. So, if you aren’t able to get what you paid for, people have been urged to speak up and try to claim their money back.
Talking on the travel podcast, Passports Please, Chelsea Dickenson, who is otherwise known as Cheap Holiday Expert, said: “Not many people realise that if you have got a reserved seat on a train and you end up standing, you may be able to get money back. There are a variety of reasons why you might not be able to sit in that seat – even if there’s no delay and things like that.”
Chelsea, who has previously shared her travel advice with ITV’s This Morning, claimed that the rules around this “completely depend on the train company”. She said that LNER trains, for example, have a seat guarantee.
She said: “If they can’t find you an alternative seat, you could claim 100% of the ticket for a single ticket, which is crazy. You get all the money back.”
Chelsea said that other train companies “may offer partial refunds or vouchers,” but this depends on the specific operator. However, there are some steps that people in this situation must take to ensure they don’t miss out on what they are entitled to.
She said: “My advice, if you find yourself in this situation, is to take photos and videos – get the evidence that shows and proves that you’re on a packed-out train, and you have to stand. Try and find a staff member on the train. So often, this will be the train manager or the driver.
“But, do go and try and find someone, or when you get to your station, wait for someone to jump off, and go speak to them. Because often what you need to do is get a note for them, or they might issue you a coupon. Speak to a staff member as much as you can. If you can’t, just get lots of evidence and then contact the company.”
When can I claim a refund for a train ticket?
You can receive a train ticket refund if your train is cancelled or if you are delayed by more than 30 minutes, although some tickets have different refund rules. To claim, apply online, in person at the station, or by post within 28 days of the ticket’s expiry date. Different ticket types have different rules, so be prepared and check online for your specific situation.
If you were not delayed, but faced the issue of having no reserved seat available, despite paying for one. Check on the website of your specific provider about any ‘Seat Guarantee Scheme’ they may have in place for more details about a refund.
