Are you tired of fumbling for change every time you need to take public transit in Canada? Look no further than the Compass Card! This convenient and easy-to-use card allows you to seamlessly pay for your bus, train, or ferry ride with a tap. But where can you buy one? In this blog post, we’ll explore the various locations across Canada where you can purchase your Compass Card and enjoy hassle-free transportation today.
What is Compass Card?
The Compass Card is a smart card used for electronic fare payment in the public transit system of Greater Vancouver, Canada. The card was introduced in December 2015 as a replacement for the previous paper ticket system. It is similar to other smart cards used in public transit systems around the world.
You can purchase the Compass Card at any SkyTrain, SeaBus, or West Coast Express station as well as on some TransLink buses. The card costs $6 and can be loaded with cash value or a monthly pass. Once you have a Compass Card, you simply tap it on the reader when boarding a bus or entering a fare-paid zone.
How to Use a Compass Card?
Compass cards can be used for all sorts of different things. You can use them to get around town, to go shopping, or even to go on vacation. Here are a few tips on how to use your compass card:
- Make sure that you have a valid Compass Card. You can purchase these at any 7-11 stores in Canada
- Tap your Compass Card on the card reader whenever you board a bus or enter a Skytrain station
- If you’re using the bus, don’t forget to tap off when you exit the bus!
- You can also use your Compass Card to pay for parking at select Parkades and Street Parking meters in Vancouver and Richmond. Look for the “Pay by Phone” sign and adhere to the instructions.
Where to Buy Compass Card in Canada?
There are three ways to buy a Compass Card in Canada: online, by phone, or in person.
If you’re buying your Compass Card online, you can do so through the TransLink or Compass Card websites. If you’re buying your Compass Card by phone, call the TransLink Customer Information Centre at 604-953-3333. If you’re buying your Compass Card in person, you can do so at any SkyTrain station, SeaBus terminals, or Vancouver West Coast Express offices.
Pricing for a Compass Card depends on which type of fare you choose: adult, concession, or senior. Adult fares start at $6 per day, while concessions and seniors start at $3 per day. You can also add funds to your Compass Card for future use; the minimum amount is $5, and the maximum amount is $300.
You can use it immediately once you’ve purchased and loaded your Compass Card. Simply tap your card on the fare gates or reader at any SkyTrain station to begin your journey.
Types of Cards Available
Two types of Compass Cards are available in Canada: the Adult Compass Card and the Concession Compass Card. The Adult Compass Card is valid for travel on all modes of public transport in the Vancouver area, including buses, SkyTrains, and SeaBuses. The Concession Compass Card is valid for travel on all modes of public transport in the Vancouver area for seniors (65+), students (13-19), and people with disabilities.
In addition to these two types of Compass Cards, several other cards are available for different types of users. These include the U-Pass BC Card, which is valid for all students enrolled in post-secondary institutions in Metro Vancouver; the FareSaver Card, which offers discounted fares on certain bus routes; and the DayPass Card, which allows unlimited travel on all buses, SkyTrain, and SeaBus services within Metro Vancouver.
How to Get Compass Card From Machine?
If you’re wondering how to get a Compass Card from a machine, the process is actually pretty simple. Just follow the steps below, and you’ll have your card in no time:
- Find a Compass Card vending machine. These are typically located at SkyTrain or SeaBus stations
- Insert your credit or debit card into the machine
- Choose the “Get Compass Card” option on the screen
- Choose the type of Compass Card you want (Adult, Concession, or Senior)
- Enter your personal information as prompted (name, birth date, etc.)
- Review the information on the screen and confirm that everything is correct
- Press “Print” to print your Compass Card. Take your card and credit/debit card from the machine, and you’re all set!
What is Orange Compass Card?
The Compass Card is a smart card used for electronic fare payment on public transit in the Metro Vancouver area of British Columbia, Canada. The card was introduced in December 2015 as a replacement for the legacy paper tickets and passes. It is valid on all modes of public transit in Metro Vancouver, including bus, SkyTrain, SeaBus, and West Coast Express.
The Compass Card can be loaded with funds for pay-as-you-go travel or stored value (similar to a prepaid debit card). It can also be used to purchase monthly passes. When entering and exiting buses or trains, the card must be tapped on a reader. A beep will indicate that the fare has been successfully deducted from the balance. If insufficient funds are available, riders will be required to pay the difference in cash.
Compass Cards are available for purchase at SkyTrain stations, SeaBus terminals, and select retail outlets. They can also be ordered online through the TransLink website.
Benefits of Using a Compass Card
There are many benefits of using a Compass Card when travelling around Canada. With a Compass Card, you can:
- Avoid having to carry cash or coins with you
- Simplify your travels by consolidating your fare payment methods
- Enjoy greater flexibility and convenience when paying for transit
- Take advantage of special fares and discounts
- Track your spending
- Manage your account online.
Online Registration Process
The Compass Card is a reloadable card that you can use to pay for your fares on public transit in Metro Vancouver. You can buy a Compass Card at any of the following locations:
Compass Vending Machines: These are located at all Skytrain and SeaBus stations and at Park & Ride lots. You can use cash, debit, or credit to load value onto your Compass Card at these machines.
Compass Customer Service Centres: There are three locations where you can load value onto your Compass Card using cash, debit, or credit. The centres are located at Waterfront Station, Stadium–Chinatown Station, and Commercial–Broadway Station.
Online: you can also register for and manage your Compass Card online. To do so, you will need to create an account with TransLink (the company that runs public transit in Metro Vancouver). Once you have an account, you can add value to your Compass Card online using a credit or debit card.
Conclusion
Compass Cards are a convenient and cost-effective way to get around Canada’s transit systems. With the wide range of locations where you can buy a Compass Card, it should be easy to find one that is right for you. Whether you’re looking for a card with monthly passes or just single rides, there’s sure to be an option out there that meets your needs. So if you want to make travelling on public transport in Canada easier and more affordable, head over to any of the places listed above and pick up your very own Compass Card today!
FAQ – Where to Buy Compass Card in Canada?
Can I access my Compass Card online?
Yes, you can access your Compass Card online. You can view your account balance and transaction history and add money to your card. You can also set up auto-reload so that your card is always ready to use. To access your account, visit the Compass Card website and create an account.
How do I get a Compass Card on my iPhone?
To get a Compass Card on your iPhone, simply download the Compass Card app from the App Store and follow the instructions. You will need to have a valid credit or debit card to complete the purchase. Once you have purchased your Compass Card, you can use it to pay for transit fares in the Greater Vancouver area.
Will Compass Card come to Apple Wallet?
The Compass Card is a reloadable card that can be used to pay for transit fares in the Metro Vancouver region. It can be purchased at any SkyTrain, SeaBus, or West Coast Express station and at selected London Drugs, 7-Eleven, and Safeway locations. The Compass Card can also be loaded online through the TransLink website.
As of right now, there are no plans to add the Compass Card to Apple Wallet. However, TransLink offers an iPhone app called mPass, allowing users to purchase and store fare products on their phones.
What is the difference between blue and orange Compass cards?
The main difference between the blue and orange Compass Cards is their price. The blue card costs $6, and the orange card costs $10. The orange card also allows you to load more money onto it than the blue card.
How do I buy a compass?
Assuming you don’t already have a compass, the best place to buy one is at an outdoor or sporting goods store. Many stores that sell camping and hiking gear also sell compasses. If you’re not sure where to find a store like this in your area, try doing a quick search online.
When you’re at the store, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a compass. First, consider what type of activities you’ll use the compass for. If you plan on doing a lot of backpacking or hiking in remote areas, you’ll need a more durable and reliable compass than someone who wants to use it for orienteering during day hikes.
Next, consider the attributes that are significant to you. Some compasses come with built-in features like altimeters and barometers, while others are more basic. Decide which features are must-haves and which ones you can live without.
Before making a purchase, compare pricing for several models. Outdoor stores typically carry several different brands of compasses, so take some time to find the one that fits your needs and budget best.
