Dorset bus - First Wessex

‘Tap on Tap off’ contactless payments for Dorset passengers

  • New tap on, tap off (TOTO) technology for bus users in Dorset
  • Contactless payments make payment quick and easy

Local bus operator First Wessex is launching Tap on Tap off (TOTO) technology across its routes in Dorset to provide customers with easy contactless payments.

From Sunday 1 December, customers traveling on First Wessex routes in Dorset will be able to use their contactless device - bank card, smartphone or smartwatch - to pay for travel. The technology will also launch for Buses of Somerset bus routes in neighbouring Somerset.

The Tap on Tap Off (TOTO) technology not only provides frictionless travel but also allows for speedy boarding and no need to ask the driver for tickets.

The TOTO technology offers:

  • Payment via contactless cards and contactless phone payments (including watches).
  • No need to pay the driver or choose a ticket to buy upfront, simply Tap on with the driver and Tap off on the dedicated reader (with the same form of payment) as you leave
  • Customers can check their fares and payments by logging in here: https://www.firstbus.co.uk/wessex-dorset-south-somerset

TOTO (Tap on, Tap off) technology

James Eustace, Commercial Director for First Wessex, said: “Tap on Tap off technology allows our customers ultimate flexibility. We’re delighted that everyone using our routes in Dorset and neighbouring routes in Somerset will now be able to benefit.

“With rising costs, we know bus travel is a cost effective way to get around. Whether customers use the bus every day, or only travel occasionally, TOTO ensures a quick and easy way to pay for their journey.”

Notes to editors

FAQs

  • What is Tap on Tap off? Tap on Tap off allows you to get the best value fare by tapping your contactless card or mobile payment device on the card reader when you get on the bus, and by tapping off at the second card reader as you leave the bus.
  • Tap all day and never pay more than the day price - Single trip taps will be £2, but if you travel multiple times during the day, you will never pay more than the day price.
  • Why Tap on Tap off? Tap on Tap off is activated when you use a contactless card or device of your choice, so with fewer cash transactions to deal with and paper tickets to print, it will help speed up boarding times and help to keep your bus running on time.
  • How do I Tap on Tap off? If you want to pay with Tap on Tap off, choose your contactless card or device, e.g. Apple watch/mobile phone and simply tap it on and off the card readers each time you travel, and you must use the same card or device every time. There is no need to ask the driver either, simply tap on and take a seat, but remember to tap off when you leave the bus for the best value fare.