Another 47 stations in the South East will implement contactless pay-as-you-go technology for train travel from the end of September.

The technology will go live on 22nd September, and from that date, customers can use contactless cards or devices to simplify their rail travel.

Pay-as-you-go offers a more flexible and convenient travel experience as customers can tap in and tap out at stations, simplifying rail travel.

The use of contactless pay-as-you-go technology provides customers with another way to pay for their journey.

Together with existing pay-as-you-go options such as Smartcard and Oyster where these are available, customers will still be able to use barcoded and paper tickets.

From 22nd September, customers will no longer need to use ticket machines at stations, including Hemel Hempstead, Tring and Staines, but can choose between booking their tickets in advance or paying for their journey by tapping their contactless cards or devices.

Customers who choose to use the contactless pay-as-you-go technology can also seamlessly switch between different trains, Tube, London Buses, and trams. The system will automatically charge the best adult fare on the day and time of travel for their journey.

When travelling into and within London, daily and Monday to Sunday capping will also apply to customers using pay-as-you-go with contactless.

As well as pay-as-you-go with contactless, the rail industry is also adapting to evolving needs of customers by making ticket purchasing simpler and more flexible.

Train operators have alternative, more-personalised ticketing options, such as Flexi season tickets, whilst some have introduced single-leg pricing and are carrying out trials of simpler fare structures.

As part of the Devolution Deals, The Rail Delivery Group is also supporting plans to introduce pay as you go pilots on different modes of transport in Greater Manchester and West Midlands.

Further information on the expansion of the pay-as-you-go with contactless initiative can be found by clicking here.

The list of stations can be found in the tag list below.

Customers have told us they want fares that reflect their needs and are simple to use. The way our customers buy tickets has also changed dramatically since the pandemic, and that’s why we’re delighted that pay as you go technology is being expanded to 47 stations. It is a step in the right direction providing convenience, simplicity and flexibility.

Pay as you go technology empowers customers by ensuring they always get the right ticket at the right price, making it easier than ever to pay and travel seamlessly. We are committed to developing a simpler and better-value fare system that not only meets our customers expectations but also supports the long-term growth of rail travel and enhances the overall customer experience.

Jacqueline Starr, Chief Executive of Rail Delivery Group