From 1 August 2026, free rides in the BahnBonus programme will start at 750 points instead of 1,000. However, the points price can rise to up to 2,000 points depending on the connection, route and booking time – potentially doubling the previous value. Customers are criticising a possible backdoor price increase.
Quick overview
This report is primarily relevant for rail travellers because it can have concrete effects on planning, connections or infrastructure. The focus is on Deutsche Bahn, BahnBonus, free ride, loyalty points and customer retention. The key points are summarised concisely below.
Key points
- BahnBonus free rides can be booked from 1 August 2026 at 750 points instead of 1,000.
- The new points price range spans from 750 to 2,000 points – depending on booking time, occupancy and route.
- In the worst case, a free ride will cost twice as many points as before.
- Deutsche Bahn is marketing the change as offering greater choice; how many connections actually become cheaper remains unclear.
- The Bild-Sparfochs editorial team fears a gradual devaluation of the bonus points.
What this means for travelers
Travellers should take a close look at the travel period, route and booking conditions. It is crucial to determine whether the report already triggers concrete timetable changes or initially describes a political or strategic development.
Context
The BahnBonus programme is a free customer retention programme from Deutsche Bahn, in which one loyalty point is generally collected per 1 euro spent; points are valid for three years.
What to watch now
- Only check specific timetable or construction notices once travel dates are set.
- Allow more generous connection times for international journeys.
- Monitor the source and operator information in case dates are still provisional.