Young people in Wales are set to benefit from drastically reduced bus fares under a new government-backed pilot programme designed to make transport more affordable and accessible.
Huge Savings on Bus Travel
Starting this week, bus fares for 16 to 21-year-olds will be capped at £1 per single journey, while a £3 day pass will offer unlimited travel. From 3 November 2025, the scheme will expand to include children aged 5 to 15.
The programme, funded by the Welsh Government, will run until September 2026 and aims to remove financial barriers to education, employment, and leisure.
Key Details at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligible Age Groups | 16–21 (5–15 from 3 Nov 2025) |
| Single Fare Price | £1 per journey |
| Day Pass Price | £3 for unlimited daily travel |
| Application | Apply via mytravelpass on TfW site |
| Government Funding | £15 million (2025–26 and 2026–27) |
| Scheme Duration | Until September 2026 |
| Coverage | Any bus journey starting in Wales |
How the Scheme Works
Discounted fares are offered through the mytravelpass system. Young travellers must apply online through the Transport for Wales (TfW) website by providing proof of age and residency.
The £15 million funding is spread across 2025–26 and 2026–27 to encourage frequent bus use for work, study, and leisure. All bus operators in Wales are voluntarily participating. While the scheme offers lower fares, it does not introduce new bus routes—its focus is purely on reducing travel costs.
Positive Response From Students
The announcement has already been welcomed by young people, particularly students balancing tight budgets.
- Evan Stoddart, a 20-year-old Cardiff student, said the £1 fare could change his travel habits, making it easier to reach work and educational opportunities.
- Holly Well, 20, from Exeter and studying in Cardiff, said the lower fares would let her explore more areas beyond walking distance, noting that many young people can’t afford to drive or pay high train fares.
Both students agreed that with cheap bus fares, public transport may even become more appealing than taxis for short journeys.
Helping Daily Commuters Too
It’s not just students who will benefit—young workers and daily commuters also stand to gain.
Oliver Reaper, 24, from Cardiff, said affordable bus travel would have made life much easier during his student years.
According to Lee Robinson, TfW’s Executive Director for Regional Transport and Integration, the scheme has already seen a surge of interest with over 10,000 applications, showing strong demand and public enthusiasm.
How to Apply for MyTravelPass
To access these discounted bus fares, eligible passengers must:
- Apply online via the Transport for Wales website
- Provide proof of age and Welsh residency
- Receive a mytravelpass card confirming eligibility
Once approved, they can travel across Wales for £1 per single trip or £3 per day. Applications are free and processed online.
The £1 bus fare scheme in Wales represents a major step in improving public transport accessibility for young people. By cutting costs and expanding access, it promotes independence, education, employment, and social mobility.
With over 10,000 applications already received and an expansion planned for younger children in 2025, this initiative could transform how Wales’ youth travel—encouraging more sustainable, affordable transport choices while reducing reliance on cars and taxis.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the £1 bus fare scheme in Wales?
Young people aged 16 to 21 are eligible now, and children aged 5 to 15 will be included from 3 November 2025.
How long will the discounted bus fare scheme run?
The scheme will run until September 2026, with £15 million in government funding allocated for 2025–26 and 2026–27.
How can young people apply for the discounted fares?
They must apply online via the Transport for Wales website, submit proof of age and residency, and obtain a mytravelpass.
