1. A railpass costs the same no matter where you buy it — assuming you buy it in your home country, before you get to Europe. Shipping costs may vary, so buy where shipping costs the least. Passes are available at a few locations in Europe (mostly the capital cities) but they cost 20% more if you buy them in Europe. Not all types of passes are available at all locations in Europe.

2. Individual train tickets are another issue. Tickets are cheapest if you buy them at the station in Europe (ask for the lowest fare and if specials are available) or on-line from the individual national rail company websites. If you buy tickets on-line from the “buy a railpass” or other travel agency websites you’ll end up paying up to 35% more and you’ll miss out on any special fares. If you’re buying a ticket that includes a reservation and have to pay shipping the total may cost almost twice what you’d pay in Europe or on-line from that national rail company.

3. Most on-line agencies process railpass orders in a day or two and the passes are shipped via secure delivery service. Two weeks before departure is plenty of time to order a railpass. You can often get one in a couple of days if you’re willing to pay for overnight shipping.