NS Travel Tips

Getting around the Netherlands is easy when using the train system. Get yourself an OV card, or e-ticket, check in and out and done. But here are some tips for getting the most out of the NS train services.

Don’t forget your ticket

Travelling on NS trains without a valid ticket can result in a fine of €50. You will be expected to pay this in cash on the train. If you cannot pay cash, the conductor can issue a deferred payment. For a deferred payment you will need to show the conductor a proof of identity and provide contact details. You will then receive a payment slip to your home address which must be paid within 14 days.

Save €1

Travelling using either your OV card or using an e-ticket will save you money. When you purchase a paper ticket at a kiosk at the station you will be charged an extra €1 per ticket.  So if you have family flying into Schiphol that will be taking the train, get them a ticket in advance to avoid this extra charge, and make getting through Schiphol that bit easier. E-tickets can be purchased through the NS website.

Train delays = Refund

If your train has a 30 minutes delay, you can put in a request for a refund from NS. There are a few conditions though.

• The delay was 30 minutes or longer (or 15 minutes when travelling on Intercity Direct)
• The delay was not announced in advance
• You have your train ticket, or you checked in and out with your OV card
• Submit your request within 3 months of the delay
• Excludes delays caused by natural disasters and force majeure

You can apply for your refund via the NS website, either through MijnNS or this form.

Forgot to check out?

Everyone forgets to check out once in a while. If you have forgotten to check out when you get off the train, you can still check out up to 6 hours after. To check out go to a NS pole and swipe your card, or to a gate (make sure to use the checkout side).

You can also sign up for NS Extra for free. Then you will automatically receive an email if it looks like you forgot to check out, and can correct the error.

Lost and Found

It can always happen, you leave, your coat, umbrella, bag, etc. on the train. The process for getting your belongings back starts online. Submit the lost property form as soon as you realise you lost something. You will need to give details of when and where you lost the item and a description of it.

The first 5 days after a found object is handed in, it will be kept at the train station it was found at. If an object matching your submitted details is found you will receive details of where it is and can go pick it up at the train station for free.

After 5 days lost property is sent to the central lost and found desk in Utrecht, where it is held for 3 months. From here an item can be delivered back to its owner for €15 (sometimes more if it is a large or heavy object).