What is the NS app?

The NS app is the official app of Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS, the Dutch national railway) and is indispensable for anyone who travels by train in the Netherlands. With the app you can plan trips, buy train tickets, manage your OV-chipkaart (public transport smart card) and view real-time travel information. The app is free to download and makes train travel a lot easier.

Every year millions of Dutch people travel by train, and the NS app helps them make their trip go smoothly. From finding the fastest connection to checking in directly with your phone, the app offers all the functionality a modern traveler needs.

Downloading and setting up the NS app

Step 1: Download the app

The NS app is available for Android and iOS. Go to the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and search for 'NS'. Download the official app, recognizable by the yellow and blue NS logo. The app is free and takes up little storage space.

Step 2: Create an account

The first time you use the app, you can create an NS account or sign in if you already have one. An account is needed to buy tickets and to link your OV-chipkaart. Fill in your details and confirm your email address to activate your account.

Step 3: Add a payment method

To be able to buy tickets, add a payment method. The app supports iDEAL, credit card and PayPal. You can also set up NS Flex for automatic travel and payment. Go to your account settings to set your preferences.

Planning trips with the NS app

Searching for a trip

On the app's home screen you will see the journey planner. Enter your departure station and destination. The app automatically shows suggestions while you type. Select the stations you want and tap 'Plannen' (Plan) to see the available connections.

Viewing travel options

The app shows various travel options with departure times, arrival times and any transfers. You can see right away whether a train is delayed or canceled. Tap a trip for more details, such as the platform you depart from and the intermediate stops.

Saving favorite routes

Do you travel the same route regularly? Save it as a favorite for quick access. Tap the star next to a station or route to add it to your favorites. Your favorite routes appear at the top of the journey planner.

Buying train tickets in the app

Single or return

After planning your trip, you can buy a ticket right away. Choose between a single or return ticket and select the travel class. The app shows the price and any discounts you are entitled to. Pay securely with your linked payment method.

Using e-tickets

Tickets you buy are stored as e-tickets in the app. When the conductor checks, show the e-ticket with the QR code on your screen. Make sure your screen is set bright enough. You can also download e-tickets in advance for offline use.

Traveling with NS Flex

With NS Flex you can travel without buying a ticket in advance. You check in and out with the app, and at the end of the month the total amount is debited. This is ideal for flexible travelers who don't know in advance when they will travel.

Linking your OV-chipkaart

By linking your OV-chipkaart to the NS app, you get a complete overview of all your trips. You can see your travel history, balance and any subscriptions. You can also travel automatically with NS Flex without a physical card.

Adding a card

In the app, go to 'Mijn OV-chipkaart' (My OV-chipkaart) and tap 'Kaart toevoegen' (Add card). Enter the card number or scan the card with your phone if it has NFC. After verification your card is linked and you have access to all features.

Real-time travel information

Delays and disruptions

The NS app shows real-time information about your trip. You can see right away whether there are delays, canceled trains or engineering works. During major disruptions you are offered alternative travel advice.

Setting up push notifications

Set up push notifications for your planned trip or favorite routes. The app warns you about delays, platform changes or cancellations. That way you always know in time if your trip will go differently than planned, and you can anticipate.

Crowding indicator

The app shows how busy the train is expected to be. This is displayed with icons ranging from empty to full train cars. Handy for deciding whether you want to travel first or second class, or choose a different train.

Useful extra features

Station information

Look up information about stations, such as facilities, shops and OV-fiets bikes (the NS rental bikes). You can see which facilities are available and how to get to the station. Parking information for P+R (park and ride) locations is also available.

Renting an OV-fiets

Do you have an OV-fiets subscription? The app shows whether bikes are available at your destination. You can also reserve a bike to be sure. The rental fee is automatically charged to your linked payment method.

Customer service

You can contact NS customer service through the app. You will find answers to frequently asked questions and can start a chat for personal help. Requesting compensation for a delay is also done through the app.

Tips for getting the most out of the app

Offline availability

Download your e-tickets in advance so you can show them even without internet. The journey planner does need an internet connection for up-to-date information. Free WiFi is often available on trains.

Using widgets

Add NS widgets to your home screen for quick access to delay information or your favorite route. On Android and iOS you can set up widgets that show current information without opening the app.

Apple Watch and Wear OS

The NS app also has versions for smartwatches. View your trip on your wrist and get delay notifications directly on your watch. Handy when your phone is in your bag.

Conclusion

The NS app is a versatile tool that makes train travel in the Netherlands considerably simpler. From planning your trip to buying tickets and receiving real-time updates, everything is in one app. By linking your OV-chipkaart and setting up push notifications, you are always prepared for your trip. Download the NS app and discover how easy train travel can be.

Frequently asked questions

Is the NS app free to use?

Yes, the NS app is completely free to download and use. You only pay for the train tickets you buy. All features such as journey planning, real-time information and OV-chipkaart management are available for free.

Can I check in with the NS app without an OV-chipkaart?

Yes, with NS Flex you can travel without a physical OV-chipkaart. You check in and out via the app, and the travel costs are debited from your account afterwards. You need a linked payment method for this.

Does the NS app also work for other transport operators?

The NS app is primarily intended for NS trains, but the journey planner also shows connecting services from other operators. To book tickets with other operators, you often need a separate app, or you can use 9292.

How do I get a refund for a delay via the app?

With a delay of 30 minutes or more, you can request compensation through the app. Go to your travel history, select the delayed trip and follow the steps to request your money back. The amount is refunded to your account.

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