Aging out of youth discounts

In Germany, turning 27 could mean the end of your youth — at least on paper! The country’s national rail operator Deutsche Bahn offers special fares for young travelers, but only if you’re under 27.

Under German law, “youth” is officially defined as people up to age 26, and companies often adopt the same cut-off. After that birthday, you’re expected to pay full price — even if your financial situation hasn’t improved.

For many students and early-career workers, that feels unfair. “A lot of students older than 26 could still really benefit from these deals,” one young German said. “Entry-level jobs don’t pay much, so discounts can make a big difference.”

And it’s not just about train tickets. Youth discounts can vanish overnight, even though poverty remains a real concern. A 2023 report found that more than 20% of Germany’s population is at risk of poverty and social exclusion — a figure that worries many young people.

The government hopes some relief will come from a planned hike in the minimum wage, which will rise in stages over the next two years, making it the second highest in the EU after Luxembourg. But critics warn that unpaid internships and loopholes mean not all young adults will benefit.

So in Germany, your 27th birthday is more than just cake and candles — it’s also a farewell to youth discounts and, for some, an unwelcome step into full-price adulthood.

This story was originally published on https://www.dw.com/ and is republished here with permission.