Martin Lewis' MSE says 'sneaky' method can get passengers £100 off rail fare

Martin Lewis' Money Saving Expert has shared a "sneaky" way to reduce your train fares by hundreds. The BBC Sounds star's team has explained how the sweet spot to book train fares is typically 12 weeks before you travel - so you better mark your diaries.

MSE said: "Contractually, Network Rail must usually have the timetable set that far ahead, and rail firms commonly release advance tickets shortly after. If you've less time before you go, it's usually best to book ASAP, as the longer you leave it, the pricier it tends to be.

"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."

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If you’re a part-time commuter, you could save £100s per year by having a flexible season ticket, MSE added. The consumer group, which was founded by the BBC and ITV regular, went on in its guide and added: "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 added: "If you know when and where you want to go, there's a sneaky way to be first in the cheap tickets queue.

"Put your journey details into the Trainline ticket alert system and you'll get an email when advance tickets for that journey go on sale, which are usually the cheapest fares – though to avoid fees, book via a train-booking site that doesn't charge them.

"National Rail also has an advance booking dates list, showing the furthest date in the future you can buy advance tickets for each train firm." Off-Peak fares are cheaper tickets for travelling at less busy times during weekdays, and all day on weekends.

You may have to travel at specified times, or on specified days or routes.