What’s the situation?

The usual festivities seem to be somewhat on the cards this year. For some of us, this means making a trip back down to where we grew up or travelling across the country. As with the usual festivities comes the usual travel chaos. Like always, it is best to consider not travelling by train this year due to the limitations of the train network. There are two main reasons for this:

Covid-19

Trains, coaches and planes are all running at reduced capacity currently, so that they can provide adequate social distancing. This means there is a massive reduction in capacity. People are being asked to book tickets this year or face not being allowed on the service.

Planned Engineering

The festive period is seen by many providers to be the perfect time to pause services. Between Thursday 22nd of December and the 4th of January, there will be disruption to multiple networks. The Heathrow and Gatwick Express will not be running its usual service. As well as this cross country services will be running an altered service which will not stop at Bristol Parkway and Bristol temple mead will also be impacted. 'Tis the season to be jolly

What’s my cheapest option?

Not to go all Adam Smith on you but it’s a well-known fact that a reduction in supply and an increase in demand can only mean one thing: a higher price. Now, festive train travel is usually expensive but this year prices are soaring. We’ve attached an image of what one person found when looking for a ticket for a journey to Newcastle. The same journey with us would be half the price, just think of all the mince pies that could buy!

What about quality?

Now, there is the option on the train to travel in the luxury of first-class. Sure, it is almost 192% more expensive but worth it right? Well, let’s compare: on the train, you get a packet of biscuits, a tea or coffee and a guaranteed seat. With the car, you also get a guaranteed seat but its heated, not only this but you also get the chance to experience one of the best in-car entertainment systems where you can play all the Christmas music your heart desires! Further, there is additional space for luggage. See, the premium on a train isn’t even close to the premium experience you can have in a Mercedes.

Most importantly which is easier?

The train is a great way to squeeze in work, reading and even browsing the news and that’s brilliant. However, Firstly, no one wants to be reading if they are stuck on a cold a platform waiting for a delayed train and secondly, it’s Christmas! Take some time off work and go explore with your friends and family. The car is the perfect option, you can take as many comfort stops and detours as you like. Not only that, but you will be safe in the knowledge that you will end up right at your destinations front door.

The trains are down and their service is going to be incredibly limited for the next few weeks. Even if they were running, there are few things you might want to think about when travelling alone or with your family: Safety, price, quality, and ease. The saying goes ‘oh what fun it is to ride on a one-horse open sleigh’ avoid the jingle hells of the train and jump in a Virtuo.