Reintroduction of smart cards for student travel

We are set to reintroduce smart cards for home-to-school travel - following new government guidance that pupils should be phone-free for the entire school day.

“Bus ticketing for school travel currently requires the use of a mobile phone, and we know this will present a challenge, in light of this latest guidance,” said Morebus operations director, David Lee-Kong.

“We are currently investigating new smartcard technology, so that we can issue cards to students, and the change is expected to take effect from the autumn term - September 2026."

Actual ticket prices will remain the same as our equivalent app fares - although there will be a small charge for the initial card to be issued.

This change will allow pupils to leave their phones at home, without any ticketing issues when travelling with us. We appreciate parents’ support and understanding whilst we implement these new measures.

Please note, older students/those at schools that haven't banned phones will still be able to purchase and use tickets on the app.