Though it lacks long distances, tiny Luxembourg was named cheapest for both train and bus routes owing to the country's decision to make public transport free in 2020.

In 2026, India continues to hold the title for the cheapest train travel globally in terms of absolute cost per kilometer. The Indian Railways network offers "Sleeper Class" and "General Class" tickets that allow travelers to cross thousands of miles for less than the cost of a cup of coffee in London. For Western-style comfort at low prices, Vietnam and Uzbekistan are top contenders in 2026, with highly affordable high-speed and sleeper services. In Europe, Luxembourg remains the leader by offering entirely free public transport, including national trains, for all residents and tourists. Additionally, several European countries have introduced "flat-rate" national passes in 2026, such as Germany’s successor to the Deutschland-Ticket, which allows unlimited regional travel for a modest monthly fee. However, for a single, long-distance journey on a shoestring budget, India’s massive rail network remains the most accessible system for millions of passengers daily.