5 tips to manage Starmer’s bus fare rise impact on your budget

Sir Keir Starmer has confirmed that the cap on bus fares will rise from £2 to £3 until the end of next year to ease pressure on public finances, a move that comes as public transport becomes a crucial lifeline amid rising living costs.

While buses remain one of the most affordable and accessible travel options, there are several ways that savvy riders can stretch their pounds and pennies a little further. 

Ante Dagelić, CEO of bus ticketing platform GetByBus, has shared his top tips for saving money when riding the bus.

Purchase a weekly or monthly bus pass 

One of the most effective ways of saving money when riding the bus is to purchase weekly or monthly passes. These passes are often significantly discounted compared to paying for a single journey, especially for those who use the bus daily. 

In London, an adult day pass is capped at £5.25, whereas an adult weekly pass is capped at £24.70. For a daily commuter, investing in a weekly pass would give them unlimited access to London buses for a reduced price of £3.52 a day, saving them £1.73 per day, or a staggering £51.90 a month. This not only simplifies budgeting but also ensures that frequent riders get the most value for their money.

Check if you’re eligible for a discounted travel pass or ticket 

Another vital step to reducing your transportation costs is determining if you qualify for a discounted pass. Most forms of transport provide reduced fares for specific groups, such as students, apprentices, pensioners and individuals with disabilities. These discounts can substantially lower the cost of commuting, making public transportation even more affordable. In London for example, weekly passes for apprentices and students aged 18+ are capped at £17.30, which is £7.40 less than a standard adult pass. 

Eligibility requirements will vary by location, so it’s essential to check with your local operator to see what discounts are available and how to apply. Often, proving your eligibility is as simple as showing a valid ID, student card or NHS badge when buying your ticket.

Make use of bus service mobile apps 

Many transport systems now offer mobile apps that not only make planning your journey easier but also provide access to exclusive discounts and promotional fares. 

These apps often allow riders to purchase tickets or passes directly from their smartphones, sometimes at a lower rate than paying the driver with cash or a physical card. Additionally, mobile apps typically feature real-time updates on bus schedules, helping you avoid missed connections and unnecessary expenses.

Take advantage of seasonal promotional offers 

Taking advantage of seasonal promotional offers is another effective strategy for saving money on bus fares. Many operators run special promotions during holidays, local events, or certain times of the year, offering discounted fares or even free rides.  

These promotions often aim to encourage more people to use public transport and can result in substantial savings for regular commuters and occasional riders alike. It’s worth keeping an eye on announcements from your local transit provider or signing up for notifications to ensure you don’t miss out on these limited-time deals.

Understand your bus operator’s refund policy 

Understanding your local bus service’s refund policy is essential for avoiding unnecessary costs. Life is unpredictable, and there may be times when you purchase a pass or ticket that you can’t use as planned. Knowing whether you’re eligible for a refund or credit can prevent you from losing money on unused fares.  

Some transit agencies offer partial refunds on monthly or weekly passes if they are returned before being fully used, while others might allow you to transfer the value of an unused pass to a future date. Some companies offer refunds if your bus arrives late or is cancelled, but this depends on your individual bus provider’s terms and conditions. 

Ante Dagelić, CEO of GetByBus, adds, 

“Using public transportation is a brilliant way to take advantage of local transport systems, save money and reduce your carbon footprint. Maximising your savings while riding the bus is all about being informed and strategic. These tips aim to help every commuter stretch their hard-earned cash that little bit further.”