ScotRail offers half-price travel for students at Christmas

ScotRail says tickets can be bought up to December 24.

And, the train operator says it is also planning to simplify the process of buying the tickets, as students look to return home to loved ones for the Christmas holidays.All a student needs to do to qualify is turn up at a staffed ticket office during off-peak with their ID, and jump on board.

ScotRail says the offer will be a huge boost to students who are worried about getting back to their families under the current coronavirus travel restrictions.

The new offer aims to make it easier for students who might find it difficult to schedule a test and book ahead.

Anyone who wishes to travel needs to record a negative Covid-19 test before they set off, but arranging test appointments and the time taken to produce the results means that students will find it almost impossible to book onto train services.

The off-peak half-price offer will be a flexible, open-return ticket valid for one month after purchase, which will allow most students to return to their studies in January after they have had another negative coronavirus test.

The student discount will be available on both off-peak day return and off-peak return tickets.

Students will be able to purchase the discounted tickets up until 24 December, which would mean they would have until 23 January to use the return portion of the journey.

Lesley Kane, ScotRail Commercial Director, said: “Students are going through a hard enough time just now trying to keep up with their studies while worrying about catching coronavirus and balancing their finances.

“We think this half price deal on tickets is the best gift we can give them before Christmas and we’re sure it will be very popular amongst students who want to get home to see loved ones at this special family time of the year.

“We are confident ScotRail will be able to carry all passengers safely over the festive period by observing the five rules for safer travel, including wearing a face covering and maintaining physical distancing.”