Eurostar announces major change to tickets that impacts every passenger

Eurostar is changing the way passengers can purchase tickets from November - and it's set to make it more affordable for some.

Until recently, only passengers who had purchased premium cabins had the freedom to change their travel plans. But this is set to change, with Eurostar announcing flexible fares as standard across all travel.

The railway company is also changing its travel classes, renaming them to Eurostar Standard, Eurostar Plus and Eurostar Premier.

Eurostar Standard is set to be the more economical option, with drinks and food available to purchase from the cafe onboard.

But Eurostar Plus passengers can enjoy more comfortable seating, as well as a workspace and meal. Those travelling in Eurostar Premium will also have access to food service, lounges and the use of a priority lane to avoid queuing.

All classes will have access to generous baggage allowances, free seat bookings and Wi-Fi - making it somewhat more appealing than flying.

And now those travelling using Standard and Plus tickets can exchange them without a fee as many times required until just one hour before departure.

Unused tickets can also be refunded up to seven days before travel, with Premier customers able to exchange in the same way. But for those paying premium, they can get a refund up to two days before the scheduled departure.

The new rules apply to tickets booked after April 23, while sales for the travel classes apply to journeys after November 4.

In a statement, Matthieu Quyollet, Chief Business Development & Integration Officer, said: "Eurostar is setting new standards for international travel by providing the greatest flexibility, clarity and comfort to customers looking to enjoy Europe in the most sustainable way.

"The new aftersales policy across all of Eurostar's travel classes means that all customers can now take advantage of more flexibility and choice than ever before and enjoy a unique travel experience for their summer holiday or autumn break."

This isn't the only change for Eurostar in recent months. A new-look website and app launched in autumn 2023 alongside Club Eurostar, a rewards programme that allows points to be used to discount journeys, upgrade seats and more.