It depends on how often you travel and if you are eligible for a discount on your train ticket.
When you pay with a contactless card or device, you will be charged the cheapest adult fare for your journey on the day you travel. For most people, this fare will be the same as a ticket bought on the day. If you make multiple journeys into or within London, your fare may be capped to a single day or be eligible for Monday to Sunday capping.
- If you have a Railcard or are eligible for other discounts (like a Child discount), it may be cheaper to buy a ticket for your journey. Currently discounts cannot be applied to contactless pay as you go.
- If you make the same journey regularly, buying a Season ticket (weekly, monthly, annual or Flexi Season) may be better value.
- In some cases, you may find a cheaper fare if you book your ticket in advance of your journey.