Train travel in the UK can be straightforward, but if your plans are flexible or uncertain, you may have come across the term “open return train ticket” and wondered what it actually means. Understanding this type of ticket can save you stress, time, and sometimes even money, especially if you’re unsure about your return schedule. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about open return tickets, how they work, when to use them, and tips for getting the best value.
What Is an Open Return Train Ticket?
A return train ticket is a ticket that allows you to travel to your destination and return at any time within a specified period, rather than being restricted to a fixed return train. Unlike a standard return ticket, which has a fixed outbound and return time, an open return gives you flexibility to come back whenever suits you. Here’s the thing: this type of ticket is particularly useful for travelers whose schedules are unpredictable or who plan to spend a varying amount of time at their destination.
How Open Return Tickets Work
Outbound Journey: You book a ticket from your starting station to your destination for a specific train.
Return Journey: You can return on any eligible train within the allowed time frame, usually one month from the date of your outward journey.
Flexibility: You are not tied to a particular return train, so you can adjust your travel based on meetings, sightseeing, or other activities.
For example, if you travel from London to Birmingham on Monday, you could return on Wednesday, Friday, or any day within the validity period without having to book a separate return ticket.
Open Return vs. Standard Return Tickets
It’s important to understand the difference between standard return tickets and open return tickets:
| Feature | Standard Return | Open Return |
| Return Time | Fixed | Flexible within validity period |
| Price | Often cheaper | Slightly more expensive due to flexibility |
| Best For | Travelers with set schedules | Travelers with uncertain or flexible plans |
| Validity | Usually same day or a few days | Up to 1 month (sometimes longer) |
While open return tickets are slightly more expensive, they offer the peace of mind of not being tied to a strict return schedule.
When to Use an Open Return Ticket
Open return tickets are ideal in several situations:
Business Travel: Meetings may run late or get rescheduled, so flexibility on the return journey is crucial.
Tourism and Sightseeing: If you’re visiting a city or region without a fixed itinerary, an open return allows you to explore without worrying about missing a train.
Uncertain Plans: When you’re unsure how long you’ll need to stay at your destination, open return tickets remove the stress of pre-booking a specific return.
Commuting Flexibility: For occasional commuters or travelers who work irregular hours, it’s a useful option to avoid penalties for changing trains.
How Much Do Open Return Tickets Cost?
The cost of an open return ticket depends on the route, train company, and travel class, but generally:
Slightly higher than standard returns: You pay extra for the flexibility.
Advance bookings: Even open return tickets can be cheaper if booked in advance.
Railcards apply: Discounts from railcards (16–25, Senior, Two Together) often apply to both outbound and return journeys. For example, a standard return from London to Manchester might cost £120, while an open return could be around £135–£140. For travelers needing flexibility, this extra cost is usually worth it.
Tips for Using Open Return Tickets
Check Validity Period: Most open returns are valid for up to 1 month, but always confirm before purchasing.
Know the Train Class: Open return tickets usually apply to standard or first-class trains depending on the type purchased.
Use Off-Peak Times: Traveling outside peak hours can save money even on open return tickets.
Combine with Railcards: Discounts apply individually to each leg, maximizing savings.
Keep Tickets Safe: If you’re using paper tickets, make sure both outbound and return portions are intact for inspection.
Advantages of Open Return Tickets
- Flexibility: Travel back at your convenience without needing to change bookings.
- Stress-Free Planning: Ideal for uncertain schedules or trips with varying durations.
- No Extra Fees for Changing Times: Unlike standard tickets, you generally don’t pay a change fee.
Disadvantages of Open Return Tickets
- Higher Cost: Slightly more expensive than fixed return tickets.
- Limited Availability on Some Routes: Not all train services offer open returns, especially during high-demand periods.
- Planning Required for Peak Travel: During busy periods, trains may be full, so early travel is still advisable.
Best Platforms to Book Cheap Open Return Tickets
When it comes to booking UK train tickets whether you’re looking for an open return, cheap train tickets, or a split train ticket choosing the right platform can make all the difference. The right website not only shows you the cheapest fares but also helps you plan your journey efficiently, compare options, and save time. Here are four trusted platforms that every UK traveler should know about:
Trainline – Trainline is one of the most popular platforms for booking train tickets across the UK. It aggregates tickets from multiple train operators, making it easy to compare prices and find cheap train tickets. The website and app are user-friendly, offer real-time updates, and even allow seat reservations. Whether you’re planning a short city hop or a long-distance journey, Trainline makes it simple to secure the best fares.
Raileasy – Raileasy is particularly known for helping travelers save money through split tickets. The platform calculates which combinations of tickets will be cheaper than buying a single through-ticket. It’s also great for flexible travel, including open return tickets, allowing you to plan your journey without worrying about strict return times. For long journeys or travelers who want to explore multiple cities, Raileasy is a reliable tool to maximize savings.
Splittrainticket.net – As the name suggests, Splittraintickets.net specializes in split train tickets, helping travelers cut costs on long-distance journeys across the UK. The platform is easy to use, providing detailed suggestions for the best ticket combinations. Whether you’re traveling from London to Edinburgh or Manchester to Glasgow, Splittraintickets.net can show you multiple ways to split your tickets and save money. It’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers looking to stretch their travel budget without compromising convenience.
OMIO – OMIO is a versatile platform that compares tickets from trains, buses, and even flights. It’s very user-friendly and provides a convenient way to find the best deals for cheap train tickets across the UK. OMIO also supports flexible travel options, including open return tickets, and displays prices clearly for each route, making it easy to plan your journey. For travelers who want both simplicity and savings, OMIO is an excellent choice.
By using these platforms, you can easily compare fares, plan flexible journeys, and take advantage of strategies like split tickets or off-peak travel. The combination of open return tickets, cheap fares, and split ticket options ensures you get the best value for your UK train travel.
An open return train ticket is a practical choice for anyone who values flexibility and convenience. Whether you’re a business traveler, tourist, or someone with unpredictable schedules, it allows you to focus on your trip rather than worrying about fixed return times. Pairing an open return with strategies like split train tickets or searching for cheap train tickets can make your journey even more affordable without sacrificing comfort or flexibility.