The cost of transportation in the United Kingdom to study abroad can be overwhelming. This is why most students prefer cheaper transportation services such as buses. Fortunately, there are still other ways to make each trip cheaper.
If you prefer taking a bus, it is important to know about bus passes. Buying a bus pass offers financial flexibility when you are travelling. When you forked out your cash upfront, you will not have to worry about it again for a whole year.
To give you an idea about the cost of a bus pass, an annual student bus and tram pass from TfL costs £592 in London. This may be heavy on the pockets, but if you look at the bigger picture, you will actually save money while getting the advantages of a flexible transportation system.
Stagecoach Unirider
In the UK, Stagecoach Unirider is available in England, Scotland, and Wales. Like most bus passes, you have to anticipate that the cost of bus passes may vary according to city-to-city.
In West Scotland, for example, you can buy a Unirider bus pass for 4- or 13-week periods. But the best thing about it is that you can book and buy online!
First Bus
First Bus is also available in England, Scotland, and Wales. First Bus is best known for its pink and white buses seen in various universities across mainland UK.
Annual and monthly passes are available but you have to anticipate the varying costs. You can also get discounts on tickets if you buy them via their mobile application.
Arriva Student Saver Tickets
Available in England and Wales, Arriva offers a student bus pass called Student Saver. Daily, weekly, monthly, termly, and yearly passes are available.
The downside, however, is that not all areas are covered. The costs also vary depending on the universities you’re attending.
Translink yLink and 24+ travel cards
Northern Ireland is where Translink is available. They offer yLink travel cards for people aged 16 to 23. Through this, you can get a third off the cost of bus journeys in the area.
The card usually costs £8, but the travel card is currently free as of writing. The best part is, even though you’ve finished your studies, you can still get student discounts!
Oyster Cards
Available in London which is known for being cash-free, Oyster Card is a must when travelling.
Here, you will need to use a payment app on your phone or tap in and out with a contactless bank card. This card can be loaded up with travel cards and passes be it daily, weekly, or even for a longer period.
Here are the things you need to know about bus passes. By now, you already know that bus passes are helpful for your part as an international student.
Transportation in the United Kingdom can be affordable if you know how to work your way around. Find more transportation tips for international students here at MSM Unify.
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