NL
Activating and using a mobile Pass on your first day of travel is done directly via the app. You dont have to print anything, because your phone is your ticket. The conductor or gate control scans the QR code straight from your screen. Thatfs how easy it is to travel contactless and flexibly.
What exactly is a mobile Pass?
A mobile Pass is a digital train or travel ticket that you store on your smartphone. Think of an Interrail Pass, an NS day ticket, or a rail pass for Belgium or Germany. You buy or activate the ticket in the official app of your transport operator. As soon as it is active, you show the QR code during inspection. The app also works offline, provided you have saved the ticket in advance.
In the Netherlands you use, for example, the NS app. In Belgium the SNCB app, in Germany DB Navigator. For Interrail you download the Rail Planner app. Each system works in a similar way, but has its own activation times and conditions.
7 This way you know for sure that everything works and you avoid stress on the platform. 7
Activating your mobile Pass step by step
You always activate your mobile Pass via the carrierfs app. The steps differ per provider, but the basics are the same.
- Download the right app. Check that it is the official app of the transport operator.
- Create an account with your email address. Optionally link a payment method for flexible tickets.
- Buy your ticket or enter an existing pass code. With Interrail you receive an activation link by email.
- Activate the pass on the day of your first journey. For Interrail this is done in the app, often up to 1 hour before departure.
- Save the ticket offline by downloading it in the app. That way you still have access without an internet connection.
Test the activation at home. This way you know for sure that everything works and you avoid stress on the platform. Most apps activate within 30 seconds.
How to use your mobile Pass on the go
You show your mobile Pass at the entrance to the platform, on the train, or at the ticket gates. The conductor or scanner reads the QR code. Make sure your phone screen is clean and your battery stays above 20 per cent.
With Interrail you add each journey to your trip diary in the app. Select the train, date and time. Confirm your choice. You will then receive an active QR code you can show. For flexible passes such as NS Flex or a day ticket you donft have to add anything. The ticket is valid immediately after activation.
Combining your train journey with cycling? In the Netherlands you can buy a bike ticket in the same app. In Belgium and Germany you use separate apps for bike rental or additional tickets.
Problems with the app and solutions
No internet connection? Make sure your ticket is available offline. Open the app before you depart and check that the QR code remains visible without Wi-Fi. Take a screenshot as a backup. This is usually accepted for inspection, provided the ticket is active.
Having trouble activating? Check that you have selected the right date. Some passes, such as Interrail, can only be activated on the start day of your trip. Also check that your app is up to date. Outdated versions sometimes cause error messages.
Phone broken or battery dead? Report to the conductor or the service desk at the station. If you have an order number or pass number to hand, they can help you further. With Interrail you can sometimes get temporary paper proof.
7 The app shows real-time delays, platform changes and alternative routes. 7
Benefits of travelling digitally with a mobile Pass
You donft have to print anything. That saves paper, time at the ticket office, and hassle with outdated tickets. A mobile Pass also fits with a more sustainable way of travelling. You can plan flexibly and adjust your route without buying new tickets.
The app shows real-time delays, platform changes and alternative routes. Handy if you want to change plans at the last minute or you miss a connection. Some apps also provide suggestions for quieter times or faster connections.
You often pay less with a mobile Pass than with separate paper tickets. You will particularly notice the difference with flexible day tickets or multi-day passes. Compare the options in the app before you buy.
Your mobile Pass stays safe and usable on your smartphone
A mobile Pass is personal and linked to your account. Do not share your ticket with others. During inspection this can lead to a fine or your pass being blocked. Some operators will ask for your ID in addition to your mobile Pass.
Update your app regularly. Operators adjust their systems for better security and new features. Outdated apps can sometimes cause problems with activation or scanning.
Store your login details in a safe place. Forgotten your password? Reset it before you travel. During your trip you may not have the time or Wi-Fi to log in again.
Discover more about smart travel
On Traveler Tips you will find more advice for planning your train journey. From the best routes and night trains to rules about luggage and travel documents. Discover how to make your train or car holiday easier and more enjoyable.
Frequently asked questions
A mobile pass is convenient because you no longer need paper tickets and everything is on your smartphone. You can check in and out faster and contactless at gates and inspections. You can often store the pass offline, which is useful when coverage is poor on the way. In addition, the pass helps with smart planning thanks to real-time travel information and sometimes cheaper flexible tickets.
First look at your type of trip: city break, nature/cycling route or cross-border trip, and choose the official app that matches (for example NS, SNCB/MOBIB, DB Navigator or an airline app). Then check whether the pass covers your entire journey (outward/return, transfers, bike if applicable) and whether there are flex or day passes that are cheaper than individual tickets. Pay attention to language and region: use the app of the country/region where you travel most, and check whether your pass is also valid abroad or with regional operators. Test the mobile pass before departure (download it offline if possible) so you know for sure that scanning and payments work on your device.
Download the official app of the provider, create an account and buy or link your mobile pass in it. Activate the pass shortly before departure and make sure it is available offline (or take a screenshot). Keep your phone charged while travelling and open the pass in the app so that you can quickly show or scan the QR code at gates and inspections. In case of disruptions, use your offline copy or report to a ticket office or service staff.
Make sure you download your mobile pass in the app beforehand and, if possible, also store it offline. Also take a screenshot of your pass so you can show it without internet or a slow app. For important journeys, take a printed version or backup proof with you. Carry a power bank or make sure you have enough battery before departure to avoid problems at access gates.