Why won't Trainline let me reserve seats?

Why Can’t I Reserve Seats on Trainline?

When booking train tickets on Trainline, you may encounter instances where seat reservations are unavailable. This is due to various factors, including the type of train service and travel time.

Factors Affecting Seat Reservations

1. Type of Train Service:

• Regional or Short-Distance Routes: These routes typically have shorter travel times and do not offer seat reservations.
• Intercity and High-Speed Trains: These services usually provide seat reservations for added comfort and convenience.

2. Travel Time:

• Peak Travel Times: During rush hour or high-demand periods, trains may be operating at maximum capacity, making seat reservations unavailable.

How to Check Seat Availability

To determine if seat reservations are available for a specific train journey, follow these steps on Trainline:

1. Visit the Trainline website or open the app.
2. Enter your departure and arrival stations, travel date and time.
3. Click “Search Trains.”
4. Review the search results. If seat reservations are available, you will see the option to reserve seats during the booking process.

Alternatives to Seat Reservations

If seat reservations are not available, there are alternative ways to secure a seat:

• Arrive early: Arrive at the station with ample time to board the train and find an unoccupied seat.
• Consider alternative routes or departure times: Explore other train services or travel times with available seat reservations.
• Contact the rail operator directly: Reach out to the train operator to inquire about the possibility of seat reservations.

By understanding the factors that influence seat reservations and following the steps to check availability, you can ensure a comfortable and convenient train journey.