Cheapest train journey to Gatwick is not to buy train tickets

[Ms Blueberry]

I recently diligently (and stupidly) bought advanced train tickets from Southern rail from East Dulwich to Gatwick Airport at a cost of ?11.90 each way. I wasted my money as if I'd tapped in using my credit card, the cost would have been only ?6.60. Can anyone explain the sense of this price difference?

[Nigello]

I think the powers that be want to promote the use of Oyster/contactless, at least in the short term, so that is why it is cheaper not to book ahead.

[titch juicy]

Tapping in is only 1 way?

[titch juicy]

titch juicy Wrote:

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> Tapping in is only 1 way?

Apologies- just seen each way.

That suprises me though as I use that route regularly and have never paid more than ?10 or ?11 return.

[titch juicy]

Just had another look- you're right (of course). They've thrown the prices up!

[titch juicy]

Hmmmm, just realised I normally use my annual gold card too.....which gives a third off.

Apologies for hijacking your thread with nonsense!

[Lowlander]

Southern for all their faults do offer a full refund policy: http://www.southernrailway.com/offers/money-back-guarantee/

Advance tickets are always cheaper outside London and the Oyster area. As soon as you start travelling within Oyster areas, things very quickly become more complex; Oyster will be cheaper in the absolute majority of cases, but it is best to check...

Also, it is cheaper to use Oyster from East Dulwich to East Croydon, (?2.60 peak ?3.60 off-peak) then a paper ticket from East Croydon to Gatwick Airport (?5.20)

tich juicey with your goldcard that option drops to ?2.95 from East Croydon