do i need to buy swiss travel pass in advance
It’s highly recommended to buy a Swiss Travel Pass in advance, but it’s not strictly necessary. Here are some reasons why you should consider purchasing it ahead of time:
- Convenience: Buying a Swiss Travel Pass online allows you to print or save your pass at home, which can save you time and hassle when you arrive in Switzerland.
- Guaranteed availability: Purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass in advance ensures that you can get the type of pass you want, as some passes (like the Swiss Travel Pass Flex) might be sold out or have limited availability if you wait until the last minute.
- Discounts and promotions: Swiss Travel System, the official vendor of Swiss Travel Passes, often offers discounts and promotions for online purchases, which can help you save money.
- Skip the lines: If you buy your pass online, you won’t need to queue at a train station or tourist office to purchase it when you arrive in Switzerland.
- Travel planning: Having your Swiss Travel Pass in advance allows you to plan your itinerary and book your accommodations accordingly.
When to buy a Swiss Travel Pass:
You can buy a Swiss Travel Pass online up to 6 months before your trip. If you’re planning to visit during peak season (June to August), it’s recommended to purchase your pass as early as possible to avoid availability issues.
Where to buy a Swiss Travel Pass:
You can purchase a Swiss Travel Pass online from the following official vendors:
- Swiss Travel System (official website)
- SBB (Swiss Federal Railways)
- Rail Europe (a reseller of European rail passes)
Additionally, you can also buy Swiss Travel Passes at train stations, tourist offices, and some travel agencies in Switzerland, but you might not be able to take advantage of online discounts and promotions.
In summary, buying a Swiss Travel Pass in advance is recommended for convenience, guaranteed availability, discounts, and travel planning.
