How can I pay for a train ticket for a child who won't have credit card to collect?

cookie365

wealdroam wrote: »

OP, you really should check that the ticket office concerned are willing to do this before you actually need this service.

It is my understanding that most ticket offices will not do this.

I've done this from at least 5 different ticket offices, ranging from London terminals to the middle of nowhere, and not once has anyone asked why I'm not picking them up from the machine, let alone refused.

But yes, no harm in making sure the station in question isn't the exception

Mids_Costcutter

As he's travelling regularly by train he'll almost certainly save money (a third off) with a 16-25 Railcard:

http://www.16-25railcard.co.uk/

Agree with other posters that it would be better if the lad had a bank account and was able to buy tickets himself.

RuthnJasper

I use these folks when getting train tickets to London these days, as I find them really helpful, convenient and cheaper:- https://www.takethetrain.co.uk/apps/WebObjects/TTT.woa/wo/0.0

(TakeTheTrain are one of the reliable outfits highlighted on this sites 'cheap train deals' section - http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/travel/cheap-train-tickets)

Not sure if they could be left at a station for him to collect - would you be able to get them sent to the reception desk at his college for him to pick up?

As Mids_Costcutter has said, though, you and your grandson will save a packet if he gets a 16-25 Railcard. I had one and I only had to use it a few times before it paid for itself in savings. Now that my parents have retired they've both got Senior Railcards (essentially the same basic deal but for over 60's) and they're getting good value out of them too.

I'm sorry that his mother is making things difficult; it's a great shame and must be quite humiliating for a boy of 17. But I wish you all the best for many happy times with your grandson in the future. x

Voyager2002

If you buy the ticket by telephone rather than on-line, you can arrange for the ticket to be held for collection in the booking office. Agree with the call centre agent what proof of identity will be shown. If at all possible, buy from the same TOC (train operating company) that runs the station concerned.

Missmouse

Thank you so much, great advice. I appreciate everyone who took time to reply.

I completely agree that he should have his own bank account. I, definitely going to drag him to the bank when he arrives.


The phoning and booking on the phone line is exactly what I was hoping for so I am now going to see if the Worcester station he travels from would do this.
Thanks again all

Lakeuk

Local independent travel agents maybe one place to get train tickets without the need for a card. Our local is very flexiable, one can purchase while someone else goes into collect, they'll deal with requesting refunds on unused tickets and if you live on a staff members commuter route they'll even deliver to you - good for late tickets

skivenov

Ask his college if they'd mind mind if you posted the tickets to him there?