Do they check for railcards on trains?

Okay, so you’re wondering if they actually check for railcards on trains, huh? Good question! I’ve been there, done that, nervously fumbling in my bag, hoping I haven’t accidentally left it at home!

Yes, they do check. Absolutely. You need to flash that Railcard when you buy your ticket, and get this – and this is important – you have to have it with you on the train. Like, seriously. I learned this the hard way once.

I remember this one time, I was rushing to catch a train to see my sister, and I bought my ticket online using my railcard discount. Totally spaced on actually grabbing the railcard itself. I figured, “Eh, they probably won’t check.” Famous last words, right?

Sure enough, about halfway into the journey, the ticket inspector comes along. I hand him my ticket, all smug, and he’s like, “And your Railcard, please?” My heart absolutely sank. I stammered something about leaving it at home, and he gave me the look. You know, the one that says, “I’ve heard it all before.”

Luckily, he was pretty understanding, but he did make me buy a new ticket at full price. Ouch! So, yeah, lesson learned. Don’t be like me. Carry your Railcard! It’s not worth the risk or the extra expense. Trust me on this one. So yeah, remember to carry it, or you might end up paying more than you bargained for.