Getting the best from your InterRail pass
Wednesday November 04 2009
I'm travelling around Europe from January via InterRail. Can I buy three or four months' worth of monthly passes in one go? And would it be a good idea to order them now. Ronan O'Meara, by email
There's nothing to stop you buying as many InterRail passes as you wish in advance, provided you specify the start date on each one. However, if you're planning on staying in places for a while, you should investigate some of the passes offering 10 days' travel in a 22-day period, which could be better value, or even if buying point-to-point tickets would be a better idea. In particular, the economics of an InterRail pass aren't quite as impressive if you travel on fast trains, for which a supplement is generally payable.
Book ahead, even if only by a day or so, and book for a specific train at an unpopular time; watch the price tumble. Look at the various options at www.seat61.com, an excellent guide to rail travel in Europe and beyond. There's no need to rush when buying a pass, provided you get whichever ones you pick before you go.
- Tom Hall
Irish Independent
