A completely new way of paying for Bee Network buses and Metrolink trams will come into effect in less than two weeks — and this is how it works.

The new 'tap and go' system will allow passengers to tap a bank card, mobile phone, or smart watch on a tram or bus and only be charged the lowest fare at the end of the day. Metrolink first installed contactless payments in 2019, but it will be extended to Bee Network buses on March 23.

It's seen as a big step forward for public transport in Greater Manchester, with Andy Burnham saying it 'makes travel easy, convenient and affordable'.

"Making swapping between buses and trams more flexible and affordable really will be a game-changer for our residents," added the mayor.

"Record numbers of people are already using contactless tap and go on Metrolink. We're now bringing our buses into the mix, with the aim to add trains in time. It all adds up to a more joined-up experience, like in London, where people choose to leave their car at home and get on board public transport."

(Image - TfGM)

How does it work?

To help passengers get used to the system, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has released a video showing how to get onboard.

Nothing has changed when using the tram, with customers still required to 'tap in' at their starting station, and 'tap out' when they get to their destination stop.

But buses are different — passengers need to 'tap in' on the ticket machine by the driver's cab, but do NOT need to 'tap out'. A £2 single hopper fare means someone can take as many buses as they like within an hour of paying for the first, so tapping on a second bus will not charge them any more.

A key point is that passengers need to use the same card, phone, or smartwatch to keep track of payments and therefore get the lowest fare. Even using a physical bank card, and then tapping your phone with the same card synced up, counts as two 'contactless payments'.

Tap and go is also only available to full fare paying adults only, and not concessions. Cash will still be accepted onboard buses.

How much does it cost?

The daily fare caps for using both buses and trams are as follows: