A train ticket exchange is a way to sell an advance train ticket you can no longer use to another traveller who needs that journey. Rather than letting an unused ticket expire, you list it on a marketplace, set a price below the original face value, and a buyer purchases it from you.
How a train ticket exchange works
The process has three stages: you list your ticket, a buyer purchases it, and you transfer the ticket document to the buyer. SaveMyFare acts as the marketplace, holding funds until the journey is confirmed complete before releasing payment to the seller.
- Create a listing with your route, date, and asking price.
- A buyer finds your listing and completes the purchase.
- You transfer the ticket — usually by forwarding the e-ticket or booking confirmation.
- Payment is released to you 48 hours after the travel date.
Which tickets you can list
Most advance train tickets bought through National Rail, train operators, or booking platforms are eligible. The ticket must be unused, valid for a future date, and held in a format you can share — such as a PDF, e-ticket email, or collection reference with an intact barcode.
- Advance tickets that are non-refundable with the original operator are typically accepted.
- Tickets tied to a railcard discount are eligible, but note the restriction in your listing so the buyer is aware.
- The barcode must be complete and unaltered.
- Season tickets and loyalty-scheme tickets cannot be listed.
How to price your ticket
Buyers use a train ticket exchange because they expect to pay less than the standard fare. To attract a buyer, set your price below the original face value. A discount of 20 to 50 per cent tends to work well. The platform fee is deducted from the sale price before funds are released, so price with that in mind.
Is it legal to exchange a train ticket?
Yes. Under the National Rail Conditions of Travel, advance tickets are transferable. You can pass the travel entitlement to another person and they travel on the same ticket you originally purchased. There is no requirement to notify the train operator of the transfer.
List your ticket on SaveMyFare
SaveMyFare is a UK train ticket exchange marketplace. Listing takes a few minutes — enter your route, travel date, and asking price, then upload the ticket for verification. Once approved, your listing is visible to buyers searching for that route and date.
- Free to list — SaveMyFare charges a fee on sale only.
- Listings stay active until the travel date and close automatically if unsold.
- You can edit your price or remove your listing at any time.
- Payment is processed after the journey is confirmed complete.