Navigating SNCF's Fare Jungle: The Pros, Cons, and Reality of the Advantage Card
Is the SNCF Advantage Card Actually Worth the Investment?
The SNCF Advantage card, launched in 2021, promises to make long-distance trips more affordable for a variety of travelers. But is it the real deal? Let's dive in.
The Lowdown on the Advantage Card
The Advantage card comes at a yearly cost of 49 euros, differentiated into three categories: the Young card for 12-27-year-olds, the Adult card for 27-59-year-olds, and the Senior card for those 60 and above. A 30% discount is guaranteed on TGV Inoui and Intercity trains and certain TER. Additionally, children aged 4 to 11 may qualify for a -60% discount, up to a maximum of three kids.[1]
The card also offers a 15% discount on onboard catering, car rentals with Avis, and concierge services. But is the offer too good to be true? Well, that depends.
While it guarantees a capping of prices (max 49 euros for journeys under 1h30, 69 euros up to 3 hours, and 89 euros beyond), the Fnaut (National Federation of Users' Associations of Transport) points out that these floor prices have increased since a range revision last fall for certain journeys.[2] For instance, the Paris-Angers line maximum fare has jumped from 49 to 69 euros.
The Card: Worth it or an Illusion?
The Advantage card may be appealing for regular travelers who book early, as the investment could be recouped in as few as two to three journeys.[1] However, for occasional travelers or last-minute bookers, the benefits might not be as clear-cut.
It's important to remember that the card does not apply to all trains. It excludes certain TER and TGV Ouigo, which often offer lower prices without a discount. So, Advantage card or illusion card? Again, it all depends on the traveler's profile and their ability to plan ahead.[1]
Digging Deeper
On one hand, the SNCF Advantage card offers substantial discounts, flexibility, and convenience for frequent travelers. However, the annual fee, limited routes, lack of additional benefits, and availability restrictions may discourage casual users.[3][4]
The Fine Print
- 30% discount for adults and 60% for children on most long-distance trips
- Annual fee of €49
- Excludes certain TER and TGV Ouigo
- Discounts might not apply during peak travel seasons or on specific trains
- No free travel passes or loyalty points for non-travel benefits
Ultimately, the SNCF Advantage card can be a beneficial addition for frequent travelers. But for those who don't often use SNCF's long-distance services, the annual fee might not be cost-effective. Plan, weigh the pros and cons, and happy travels!
(Source: © Kevin Comte By Sabrina Guintini, [the essential news CAPITAL], [general terms of use], [data protection charter])
[1] SNCF Advantage card[2] Fnaut[3] Pros of SNCF Advantage Card[4] Cons of SNCF Advantage Card
- The SNCF Advantage card, a yearly investment, could potentially be recouped in as few as two to three journeys for regular travelers who book early.
- For those who don't often use SNCF's long-distance services, the annual cost of the Advantage card might not be cost-effective, as it does not offer free travel passes or loyalty points for non-travel benefits.
- The card, while excluding certain TER and TGV Ouigo that often offer lower prices, could prove beneficial for those who can plan ahead, given the substantial discounts it offers on most long-distance trips.
- In the realm of technology and business, the SNCF Advantage card could be compared to a scholarship program, offering advantages (discounts) to those who qualify (regular travelers), but not being applicable to everyone (casual users).
