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Can TripKey be used outside of the Netherlands?

Posted by (Duluth 🛶 ) on

I will be in the Netherlands from May 17th through the 27th (traveling solo). I will be making one trip out of the Netherlands during my 10 day trip there - I am taking the IC train from Amsterdam to Gent and then returning 3 days later. If I'm correct in assuming I can use TripKey for the train to Gent, can I also use it for the return trip from Gent back to the NL?

For what it's worth, I will also be making some day trips once I get back to Utrecht, Den Hague, Leiden, the towns north of Amsterdam and possible Harlaam). If I can't use it for the Belgium trip, is it still worth it for the day trips within the NL?

Thanks!

Posted by
32709 posts

It is not valid on international trains. You can't use Thalys without a pre-booking - all seats are reserved. It is valid on all your other trips.

Posted by
2487 posts

TripKey can only be used within the Netherlands, if only because the Belgian public transport has no facilities for checking in and out. You must buy your tickets to and from Belgium separately, both with using the Thalys or the Intercity service. Buy those tickets in advance to profit from considerable discount. A ticket for the Intercity service is valid for any train on that day; for the Thalys you make a reservation for a specific train.
With your travelling plans TripKey is still worth getting. The TripKey card costs you EUR 3,50, while paper tickets come with a EUR 1 surcharge. And in case you need an occasional bus, be aware some bus companies are refusing cash money, and you would have a problem in case your bank card or credit card doesn't work.

Posted by
6274 posts

Thanks to both of you! I wasn't planning on taking the Thalys - I'd love the shorter trip but not enough to pay another €15+. I will go ahead and book the Intercity tickets now.

I do have several chip-and-pin credit cards so I don't anticipate any problems using them, but of course, you never know.

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