How to save on trips
You can save on train trips thanks to the dynamic pricing system. It covers about 95% of all RZD transportation. All carriages included in the program are marked with the ₽ sign when selling tickets on the website.
One of the rules that determines the price of a trip is — the higher the demand and the fewer seats, the higher the ticket price. You should also consider these factors:
train category;
time of year, day of the week, departure time, arrival time, etc.;
number of available seats on the train;
ticket purchase date (number of days before train departure);
demand level.
How often does the price change?
The system analyzes hundreds of different factors in real time and, depending on the data received, periodically recalculates the fare for the entire route. As a result, the ticket price can change within an hour or even a few minutes.
In the vast majority of cases, the rule applies — the fewer days left until departure, the higher the ticket price.
How to buy a cheaper ticket?
The main factor influencing ticket price is demand. Therefore, consider the following factors to save money:
Seats in the carriage
The system applies discounts depending on the location of seats in the carriage. For example, upper berths are less in demand — so the price for these seats will be lower.
Departure/Arrival time
Sometimes the ticket price depends not only on the time of year and day of the week, but also on the time of day. For example, tickets for trains departing at 4-5 AM are usually cheaper than those departing later.
Day of the week
Most passengers plan their trips for the weekend. For example, they leave on Friday and return on Sunday evening. Therefore, tickets for these days of the week will be more expensive.
Season
Ticket prices are significantly lower during seasons when people rarely travel by train. For example, after the New Year holidays.
During peak travel times — tickets are more expensive. Even a one-day difference can significantly affect the price.