More and more people are comparing coach ticket prices, but still up to 17% of passengers do not use the discounts they are entitled to. This most often results from a lack of knowledge about the differences between statutory and commercial discounts. In practice, this means real losses – sometimes several dozen zlotys on a single trip.
Statutory vs. Commercial Discounts – What Do You Need to Know?
Statutory Discounts
These are discounts resulting from legal regulations. They apply mainly to domestic public transport and include, among others, pupils, students, seniors, and people with disabilities. The discount amount (e.g., 37%, 49%, 78%) is determined by law, and the carrier is obliged to honor it on routes covered by the regulation.
Commercial Discounts
These are discounts offered voluntarily by carriers. They may include discounts for children, seasonal promotions, group offers, loyalty programs, or discount codes. Their amount and rules depend on the company and the type of route (domestic or international).
What Discounts Do Popular Carriers Offer?
Polonus
Domestic carrier. It applies statutory discounts (pupils, students, seniors, people with disabilities) on routes covered by the act. Additionally, it offers commercial discounts for children and seasonal promotions.
Sindbad
International carrier. Statutory discounts do not apply on foreign routes – only commercial discounts are available (children, youth, group offers, time-limited promotions).
Eurobus
The range of discounts depends on the nature of the route. Statutory discounts may apply on domestic connections, while only commercial discounts are used on international ones.
Ecolines
International operator. Offers commercial discounts for children, seasonal promotions, and a loyalty program.
Lux Express
Premium segment in international transport. No statutory discounts – commercial discounts for children and promotional offers are available.
FlixBus
Domestic and international operator. It applies statutory discounts on selected domestic routes, while commercial discounts apply on international routes. Prices are dynamic – booking in advance often means lower ticket costs.
TOKS
Domestic carrier. It honors statutory discounts on regulated routes and offers additional commercial promotions.
Why Do Passengers Overpay?
- They do not select the correct discount when purchasing a ticket.
- They do not check if a given route is subject to a statutory discount.
- They book at the last minute without comparing offers.
- They do not have a valid document confirming the right to a discount.
5 Rules for an Informed Passenger
- Check if you are entitled to a statutory discount.
- Verify available commercial discounts with the carrier.
- Book tickets in advance.
- Always have a document confirming the discount with you.
- Compare offers from several carriers before purchasing.
Conscious travel planning allows you to significantly reduce travel costs. Before purchasing, it is worth comparing available connections and checking which discounts you can use – you can conveniently compare all options in one place at bilety.pl.
