Price increase on the train: Families now have to pay a lot more!

Price increase on the train: Families now have to pay a lot more!

Deutsche Bahn has announced that it increases the prices for seat reservations from June 15, 2025, which is particularly concerned. This is done in the context of an increase in passenger numbers, especially on the Pentecost weekend when many families used the days off for excursions. From this date, all travelers, including the children, have to pay for their reservations because the previous family reservations are abolished. The new price structure stipulates that a reservation in the second class increases from 5.20 euros to 5.50 euros, while the first class increases from 6.50 euros to 6.90 euros.

The cost increase for families is particularly serious: Instead of 10.40 euros for family reservations, a total of 22 euros are now due for a family- thus 44 euros for return trip. This has led to considerable criticism from various political parties, including the left, the Greens and the CDU, as well as associations. For example, the ecological traffic club VCD has asked to maintain family reservations, since many families rely on reserved seats, such as op-online reported.

growing concern about the effects

The new pricing could tempt families to consider alternative travel options. Alexander Kaas Elias from the VCD argues that this price increase sends a negative signal in times when sustainable mobility is sought. Families in particular could be severely affected by the decision, which is why many of them could look around for other mobility options in the future, such as MDR not.

Elisabeth Müller, the chair of the Association of Children's Reichen Families Germany, supports this concerns and demands a reliable system for families so that they can travel together. Families with several children, such as five children, are faced with an enormous increase in reservation costs: from 20.80 euros to 77.00 euros, which corresponds to an increase of 270 percent. This could actually be a hurdle that provides many families with the choice of how they want to design their vacation.

travel preparation for families

Although the price increases are regrettable, the railway remains an attractive option for many family trips that offer unique experiences but also have challenges. Before the trip, parents should make sure that they pack important things such as medication, health insurance cards and rain jackets, even if the weather looks good. Larger children can help create suitcase lists, and it is advisable to discuss excursion destinations in advance to avoid boredom during the trip, such as Bahnhit executed.

When arriving by train, there is also the advantage that children up to 14 years accompanied an adult can drive free of charge. During the trip, it is important to keep regular meal times and plan alternatives to expensive restaurant visits such as lunch packages or a picnic in the park. Vacation photos can help to keep memories and make the journey an unforgettable experience.