Martin Lewis' urgent warning to anyone travelling home for Christmas by train
Martin Lewis has sounded the alarm for those planning to travel by train over the Christmas period, urging them to circle Friday, September 27 in their diaries. This is when most train operators are expected to release their festive tickets.
The consumer champion and television personality highlighted that this date could be key for securing the best fares. Mr Lewis advised: "Train-ing home for Christmas? Don't wait to book fares. Advance tickets usually go on sale 12 weeks before the date of travel, and that's the best time to grab the cheapest fares."
He added a tip for eager travellers: "So if you know when you want to travel, be ready to pounce in a couple of weeks - and we've a way to ensure you're at the head of the queue."
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The heads-up was part of the latest Money Saving Expert newsletter that hit subscribers' inboxes today.
It's generally recommended to start searching for train tickets around 12 weeks prior to your intended travel date. Network Rail is typically obliged to have the timetable confirmed by this point, prompting rail companies to release advance tickets soon after, reports Birmingham Live.
MSE's website also cautioned: "Be aware though, some firms release advance tickets even earlier than 12 weeks prior, with the caveat that times could change slightly. For example, London North Eastern Railway (LNER) often releases advance tickets up to 24 weeks ahead for routes from stations north of York into London."
"Advance tickets are non-refundable (unless your journey's delayed or cancelled). So if you book and then can't travel for instance, if you're ill you won't get your money back."
MSE also suggests registering your trip with the Trainline Ticket Alert service.
By doing this, you'll receive an email notification when advance tickets become available for your specified route, they advise.