How to get a train ticket during the holiday season: life hacks for traveling by rail

During the summer season, train tickets disappear instantly, and finding a seat on the right train becomes a real challenge. Learn more about effective life hacks that will help you buy a ticket even when it seems like there is no chance

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Summer is the peak vacation season, and getting a ticket to a popular destination becomes a real quest. Train seats sell out in minutes after tickets go on sale. But even in such conditions, there are ways to increase your chances of getting on the right flight — the main thing is to know the life hacks that will help you win the race for your dream ticket.

Secrets of experienced travelers: how to catch a ticket during the season

1. Track available seats through the Ukrzaliznytsia app

As written by RBC-Ukraine, if there are no tickets available for the selected date, enable the “Track available seats” feature in the mobile app:

- select the destination and date;

- press the tracking button;

- specify the type of carriage you want — open seating, compartment, or luxury;

- enable push notifications.

As soon as someone returns a ticket or an additional carriage becomes available, you will receive a notification.

2. Enable automatic ticket purchase

To make sure you don't miss out on a ticket, even at night or during work, activate the auto purchase option. How it works:

the system monitors seat availability;

as soon as a ticket becomes available, it is automatically purchased and the funds are debited from your bank card;

if you change your mind, you can cancel the request and the money will be refunded without commission.

This feature is only available after verification via “Diyu” and does not work for the Kyiv-Vienna and Kyiv-Warsaw routes, except for Intercity.

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3. Look for routes with transfers

Sometimes it is better not to wait, but to look for an alternative with a transfer. In the app, you can enable the “with transfers” filter, and the system will show you combined options. These are:

- will take a little longer;

- will sometimes be cheaper (especially if direct flights are only available in a compartment or luxury class);

- will increase your chances of reaching your destination on the desired day.

4. Try tickets to neighboring stations

If there are no tickets to your city, check the availability of seats to neighboring stations through which the same train passes. For example:

there are no tickets to Lviv — try Truskavets or Stryi;

instead of Kharkiv — buy tickets to Lozova or Poltava.

This may be a little more expensive, but you will be able to get off at the right station.

5. Don't ignore night trains

Many trains depart after midnight, so look for tickets not only for the day of departure, but also for the previous date. For example, if you plan to leave on July 20, check the night of July 19 to 20.

6. Know when tickets go on sale

When exactly should you “hunt” for tickets?

Domestic flights — tickets go on sale every day at 9:00 a.m., 20 days before departure.

International destinations — 30 days in advance, but Moldovan destinations open at 8:00 a.m.

Tip: set a reminder so you don't miss the right date!

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