Applies to: First Class upgrade auctions purchased through the Seatfrog app
Does not apply to: Superfare, Secret Fare, Rail Tickets or TrainSwap
Getting on the right track (train pun intended): Before placing a bid, make sure you've added a trip and your payment details to Seatfrog — remember you only pay if you win!
How does bidding work?
Seatfrog auctions allow you to bid for a First Class upgrade on your selected train.
You must:
Have a valid ticket for the train service.
Add your trip in the Seatfrog app.
Add valid payment details before placing a bid.
You can only bid using the Seatfrog mobile app.
How to place a bid
Open the Seatfrog app.
Go to Auction.
Select the train you want to upgrade.
Tap Place a bid.
Enter your maximum bid amount.
Confirm your bid.
You will only be charged if you win the auction.
What is a pre-bid?
A pre-bid allows you to set your maximum bid before the auction opens.
Once you place a pre-bid:
Seatfrog will automatically enter the live auction on your behalf.
The app will increase your bid in small increments up to your maximum amount.
You do not need to manually place bids once the auction opens.
Your maximum bid remains private.
What is a maximum bid?
When you place a bid, you set the maximum amount you are willing to pay per upgrade.
Seatfrog will automatically increase your bid in small increments on your behalf, up to your maximum amount.
Only you can see your maximum bid.
If no one bids higher than you, you may win for less than your maximum bid.
What happens when the auction is live?
When the auction opens:
You can place additional bids.
The current highest bid is visible to all participants.
You will remain the highest bidder until someone outbids you.
You will receive notifications if you are outbid (if push notifications are enabled).
You will only be charged if you win.
What are Instant Upgrades?
Some auctions have hidden, pre-set price points called Milestones.
If your bid reaches or exceeds an Instant Upgrade price:
You may win the upgrade immediately.
You may pay less than your maximum bid.
Instant Upgrades allow multiple upgrades to be sold within the same auction.
Bidding for more than one upgrade
You can bid for more than one seat.
Before placing your bid, select the number of upgrades you want.
Your bid amount is per upgrade.
Example:
If you bid £30 for two upgrades, your maximum total spend is £60*.
If the winning price is £25 per seat, you will pay £50* in total.
*+£3 platform fee per upgrade.
When does the auction close?
Auctions usually close 30 minutes before the train departs from its starting station.
Auctions may close earlier if:
All upgrades are sold.
Operational changes occur.
Can I buy an upgrade without bidding?
Yes.
If available, you may see an Upgrade Now option in the app.
This allows you to purchase the upgrade instantly at a fixed price.
Why am I being outbid?
Other users may be placing higher maximum bids.
To increase your chances of winning, you can:
Increase your maximum bid, or
Purchase an Upgrade Now option if available.
Can I bid without the app?
No. You must use the Seatfrog mobile app to bid.
Do I need internet access?
Yes. Auctions are live and require an internet connection to place or update bids.
Can I see who is bidding?
No. We do not share the identity of auction participants.
Download our app here:
Please note: Travellers who need assistance should contact the journey care team of the train operator. You can find out more in the Accessibility & Passenger Assistance article on our partner's page.