Will contactless technology help residents who use public transport?

On dreary January days where there isn’t much to cheer in terms of the British weather, residents and commuters in Brighton and Hove now have the added convenience to pay for tickets on Brighton and Hove Buses and Metrobus using contactless bank cards and phones. In this blog we will be looking at the key benefits this will bring to local residents, and how contactless technology is helping the UK in general.

How does a passenger pay for a bus journey using contactless technology?

To pay for a bus journey, passengers or commuters simple tap their phones or “pay and wave” their contactless debit or credit cards on the ticket machine when they get on the bus.

Will contactless technology make life easier for customers?

Yes, yes, yes! The introduction of “pay and wave” means customers won’t need to carry loose change or have that awkward moment where you can’t find the exact money on a packed bus during peak periods. The introduction of contactless technology on board the buses is designed to make things as easy and convenient as possible for people looking to travel around on public transport. It will also help people who fancy a spontaneous trip out, and are unsure on how much the bus costs.

Will contactless payments be available on all buses in Brighton?

The new payment system, which was introduced in November 2018, will be available on all Brighton and Hove and Metrobus routes. If you are unsure, it may be worth checking with the local council.

Will you be able to pay for your bus journey in Brighton using AMEX?

Unfortunately not. In this instance American Express is not accepted. Customers will be able to pay using the following options:  Visa, Mastercard or with your phone using Apple or Android Pay.

What is the current limit for contactless payments in the UK?

The current limit for contactless payments in the UK is £30. This is a set limit per transaction for contactless enabled cards which do not require a pin to authorise a transaction. The previous figure was £20 but this was increased in 2015.

Is it cheaper to use a contactless card or Oyster card?

Contactless and Oysters payments are charged and priced per journey on where the individual is travelling but has a daily maximum figure you can be charged. If you plan on doing a set journey over a period of time a travel card maybe a better investment depending on your travel requirements.

Do contactless payments leave your account immediately?

Not necessarily. If a customer or individual processes a contactless transaction it can take up to 4 working days to be debited from your bank account.

How do I know if my card is contactless and will work for public transport?

All contactless cards have the contactless symbol on them. The symbol is four curved lines which many say resembles a Wi-Fi symbol turned on its side. If you have this displayed on the front of the card then you are able to pay for your journey using contactless technology.

We are now seeing the popularity and growth of contactless technology reaching almost every part of the UK. What are your thoughts on the introduction and how will it benefit Sussex locals?  Will it change your morning commute? Like with any of our blogs we’d love to know your thoughts on the matter. Comment below or email sales@wirelessterminalsolutions.co.uk.