Do you travel to work by train every day? Buying individual tickets every morning via the app or at a ticket machine might seem easy, but it is actually the most expensive way to commute in the Netherlands. You are likely paying much more than necessary.
Why choose an NS Route Pass (Traject Vrij)?
The NS Traject Vrij subscription allows you to travel unlimitedly on a specific route (e.g., from Utrecht Central to your workplace at Amsterdam South) for a fixed monthly fee.
1. It is simply cheaper If you travel the same route to work 4 or 5 days a week, a route pass is almost always more affordable than buying loose tickets. In most cases, the pass pays for itself after just 12 to 14 working days. This means for the rest of the month, your commute is essentially free.
2. Discounts on your days off With a Traject Vrij subscription, you also receive a 40% discount on all other NS routes during off-peak hours and weekends. Perfect for exploring the country when you are not working!
3. No more daily hassle Stop wasting time at ticket machines before your shift starts. You simply check in and out with your personal OV-chipkaart. You will receive one clear monthly invoice from the NS, making it much easier to handle your travel expense claims.
Calculation Example: Imagine a return ticket to work costs € 18.-. For 20 working days, you would spend € 360.- per month on individual tickets. An NS Traject Vrij subscription for that same route is significantly cheaper.
Calculate your savings
Curious about the exact cost for your commute? You can calculate your price in less than a minute on the official NS page:
