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SBB mobile app

I've seen various people in these forums encourage others to download and use the SBB mobile app, so I did. But I can't do anything with it. I can't see where to buy tickets, I can't upload the Swiss Half-Fare Card I just bought from SBB on my computer. Everything seems to require a SwissPass login. But I can't even register on the app to create a log-in account; when I click on the button to register, I just get a white screen on my phone. How are you supposed to use this app? What am I missing?

Posted by
612 posts

I can't fully answer this because honestly we just use the SBB app while in Switzerland to quickly check train times/connections/tracks. We just have our passes/half fare cards screen shot on our phone to show the agent and in the rare event we have to buy a ticket that our pass doesn't cover, we just quickly buy it at the station. There are I'm sure fuller ways to use the app, but it's value to us has just been the scheduling.

Posted by
2506 posts

You do not need to load the Swiss Half Fare Card in to the app. (If you had created a login before purchase however it would be loaded). Just when buying tickets in the app indicate that you have a Half Fare Card. You can use the app to buy tickets for other persons too, just add them (select the "edit passengers" button) and select any reductions they have.

When the conductor comes he will want to see both your ticket and the HFC, so have that ready.

Posted by
638 posts

myswisslife, what very helpful and detailed information! I tried it on my phone and I can't tell you what a relief it was to realize I can do this. I know the trenitalia app is similar. Now I just have to figure out the train app for France and Germany. I know a lot of this probably seems like basic information to many people, but I'm still somewhat anxious about traveling in Europe alone and I'm tech challenged as well; not a great combination, so I love step by step instructions!

And WengenK, thank you as well. My trip is in October, but I'll keep these instructions for when I'm ready to purchase my train pass.

Again, thank you!

Posted by
77 posts

Thanks everyone! I have printed out my Half Fare Card and my tickets and screenshotted them as well. Another question, perhaps for WengenK...do I need the entire Half Fare Card to show in the screen shot, or just the QR code? Also, my Half Fare "Card" is printed on a piece of 8.5 x 11" paper. Can I cut the paper to credit card size showing just the QR code and then laminate it, so it is more portable and durable?