TravelIntermediate

Buying a train ticket in English

Everyday English for buying a train ticket. Key line: “Hi, could I get a *single* *ticket* to *York*, please?”

Full script

LinHi, could I get a single ticket to York, please?
ThemSure, when are you traveling today?
LinThis afternoon, around three. Just me, plus a giant suitcase.
ThemGot it. A single around three is eighteen pounds.
LinPerfect. Can I pay by card and get a window seat?
ThemCard's fine. No reserved seats, so just hop on anywhere.
LinNo worries. One adult ticket, then. My suitcase can stand.
ThemDeal. One adult ticket for you; the suitcase rides free.

Key phrases

The lines worth keeping. Read them once before you go out.

Start

✓ Could I get a single ticket to ..., please?

Polite way to ask for a one-way ticket to ...

More natural than I want

Departure

✓ When are you traveling?

Ask when someone will travel.

Also asks about travel time

Card

✓ Can I pay by card?

Can I use a card?

We often say pay by card

Boarding

✓ Just hop on anywhere.

Get on and sit anywhere.

Used when seats aren't reserved

Quick answers

Start: what to say in English

Say “Could I get a single ticket to ..., please?” — polite way to ask for a one-way ticket to . More natural than I want.

Departure: what to say in English

Say “When are you traveling?” — ask when someone will travel. Also asks about travel time.

Card: what to say in English

Say “Can I pay by card?” — can I use a card. We often say pay by card.

Boarding: what to say in English

Say “Just hop on anywhere.” — get on and sit anywhere. Used when seats aren't reserved.

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