the sbb app without wifi on the train

I haven't tried the SBB app, but so far I've never encountered a rail app that doesn't store the tickets locally on the phone. Trains move and reception is not always perfect, and the apps would not be very useful if locals can't show their tickets if the trains is in a tunnel e.g. Not to mention tourists that don't wan't to use more mobile data than needed.

The SBB ap works the same. It stores the ticket data in the phone ap; you don't need wifi to access the tickets you would buy using wifi.

I have another question related to the SBB app:

Here at home, I've been playing with it, and somehow got the app to show the actual map of the route I was researching. I have no idea how I did that, and can't seem to do it again. I'm sure it's really easy!

I’d take a screenshot or save to your Apple wallet (if it’s an iphone) just to be safe. It’s better than having to scramble to get your ticket to show up.

Pat- If you click timetable and then go to the map view, does that work for you?

The SBB app has been so handy to have on my phone, along with the Trenitalia app.

Just returned home last Sunday from 10 days in Switzerland. The SBB app definitely downloads the tickets you purchase to the app so you can access them while offline as long as you have logged in while online. However, Swiss Travel Passes can't be added to the app so make sure you print those out. I found the SBB app immensely helpful. In addition to the national train services it has all the local train and bus schedules. It really made moving around easy and help us make some tight connections.

Meg, where is map view? I feel like an idiot asking because I'm sure it's very simple. Thanks

I’m more than happy to help, Pat! When I open my app, I click “Timetable” in the upper left. From there it opens a screen that says “Plan” with three headings in red underneath. The far right heading says Map. I hope this helps!

Just wondering about the SBB app... i have it and can look everything i need up no problem (this is for future travel, planning ahead) is an account and "swisspass" on there seperate from lets say, buying the half fare card as well? Would i need to set up this account and then have the half fare card seperate? thanks!

I’m trying to practice with the SBB app and it keeps defaulting to my home location in CA for “departure” rather than a city in Switzerland. I can’t seem to get out of that loop. To top it off, I need to change my password and can’t find the procedure in English. I’d appreciate any help to solve this dilemma. Thanks!

Emily, try going to the app settings on your phone and turn off the location. I have mine set to “never.” You can find it under settings on your phone, then locate the SBB app, and location. Also, you can use the app to look up times without creating an account. So, you shouldn’t need a password. You might want to delete the app from your phone and reinstall it.

Elain, there is no way for tourists to add the Swiss Travel Pass or half fare card to the app. That feature is for Swiss citizens. When you buy the Pass or Card you will either have a hard copy that you will show the conductor or if you purchase online ahead of time, you will get a QR code that you can either print out or add to your phone’s wallet. It is that QR code that you will show the conductor.

Thanks Carrie! 😄