Opening of SNCF Spring Ticket Sales: Dates, Tips, and Tricks for Smart Travel

SNCF is opening its ticket sales this Wednesday, January 22, for travel between March 31 and May 11. This period includes spring holidays and May bank holidays, highly popular travel times. Here’s everything you need to know to book at the right time and secure the best deals.

Key Dates to Remember

• Sales opening: Wednesday, January 22, for TGV Inoui and Intercités.
• Travel period: From March 31 to May 11.
• For trips starting May 12: Sales open on February 12.
• International and Ouigo High-Speed tickets: Already available.

Book at the Right Time to Save

While rushing to book as soon as sales open might seem essential, it’s not always the best strategy. According to a study by Trainline, the ideal time to book is 11 weeks before departure. This timing can lead to significant savings, such as:

• Up to 63% on a Paris-Rennes trip.
• A Brussels-Paris trip at €53.16 instead of €112.36 one week before departure.

However, early booking is recommended for popular destinations like the South of France, where trains can quickly sell out after sales open.

Understanding Dynamic Pricing

SNCF ticket prices fluctuate based on demand. The more simultaneous bookings, the higher the prices. To counter this, consider:

• Traveling on weekdays instead of weekends.
• Departing early in the morning or late at night.
• Shifting your travel date (e.g., from Friday afternoon to Thursday afternoon) to save up to 30%.

Tips for Cheaper Travel

1. Discount Cards:

   • Liberté Card (€349): Perfect for frequent travelers, offering fixed prices and avoiding dynamic pricing.
   • Avantages Card (€49): 30% discounts with some restrictions (e.g., one trip must occur over the weekend).

2. Flash Sales and Resale Platforms:

   • Look out for promotions offering discounted tickets.
   • Use platforms like Ouigoswap to resell unused tickets.

3. Alternative Solutions:

   • Regional trains and classic Ouigo: Cheaper options for longer travel times.
   • WePost: Deliver a package to cover part of your ticket cost.
   • Kidygo: Babysit a child during the trip in exchange for payment.

Spring Holidays: A Strategic Time

Spring holiday dates vary by school zones:

• Zone A: April 19 to May 5.
• Zone B: April 5 to April 22.
• Zone C: April 12 to April 28.

With record attendance in 2023 – 163 million high-speed travelers – SNCF anticipates strong demand. To travel smoothly and affordably, plan your bookings in advance while leveraging the many tips to ease the financial burden.