Save Money While Visiting London

London is one of the most iconic travel destinations in the world, but its virtually endless supply of sightseeing opportunities can come at a steep price for visitors (whether from overseas or not) who don’t plan ahead and learn some of the ways to cut costs without sacrificing any experiences. Luckily, there are a number of inexpensive ways to get around the city, enjoy the local atmosphere, and see all of the historic sites without breaking the bank. Below are some of the best ways to squeeze the most out of your money on a trip to London.

Order a Visitor Oyster Card

Taxis and car rentals can get quite pricey in London, and one of the best ways to cut down on your travel expenses is to take advantage of the city’s extensive public transit system. Ordering a Visitor Oyster card before you arrive can slash those costs even further, providing up to half-off on train and bus tickets, as well as offering daily fare capping that allows you to travel as much as you’d like in a single day for free after the cap has been reached. The Visitor Oyster card also includes discounts for a variety of restaurants and attractions, making it a no-brainer for anyone who wants to see London on a budget.

Locals can also get free travel cards. It is an income based scheme for the low income. There are System One cards, Swift Cards in some cities such as Birmingham, and other schemes. Read more on free travel card schemes.

Live Like a Local

Another great way to drastically cut costs on your London trip is to follow the locals’ lead. Instead of paying for an expensive hotel, consider temporarily renting a flat near the heart of the city. Not only will it save money, it also means less vacation time spent getting to the places you want to see.

The same attitude can be extended to your food and drink budget by avoiding the overpriced restaurants aimed at tourists and opting instead to enjoy the enormous variety of affordable local fare. From shawarma to a classic fish and chips, large portions can be had without breaking breaking the bank by getting a few blocks away from the major landmarks.

Save money on costly London restaurants, and get a quick takeaway sandwich or food at at grocery store or super market such as Pret a Manger. Visitors can save 40 to 50% on food from this approach.

Enjoy Free Attractions

From exploring the Kensington Gardens to watching the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, there are plenty of things to do in London without spending a dime. Some of the city’s best museums, such as the British Museum, the National Gallery, and the Tate Modern, are free of charge. For more eclectic options, you can stroll through the bustling Borough Market or check out the colorful street art in Shoreditch.

London is known for its Galleries. Almost all of them are open to the public as well as visitors alike. They are free to visit and they also sell a number of low cost souvenirs and other items. Read more about visiting free galleries in London.

Consider the London Pass

London’s major tourist attractions often have steep admission prices, but if you’re planning to make the rounds, you can save big by purchasing a London Pass. The pass includes free admission to over 80 attractions, including the Tower of London, the Thames riverboat cruise, Westminster Abbey, and the Shard.

In most cases, the London Pass will pay for itself after visiting three or more attractions, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers with a packed itinerary. There are also discounted train tickets, which can save money on a London visit.

Don’t Forget the VAT

Non-EU residents traveling to the UK for business or leisure are entitled to a VAT refund on the taxed goods they purchase during their stay, which can quickly add up, especially for anyone who plans to do some serious shopping in London. For any purchases made in person that exceed the minimum spend amount, simply request a tax refund form, fill it out, and present it to Customs at your departure airport. While it may not be worth the hassle for every traveler, anyone who plans on making on making any major purchases in London should remember to ask for a form.

London is a dream destination for many travelers, but nothing takes the fun out of a vacation faster than worrying about whether you can afford to experience the destination to its fullest. Whether you live in the UK and are visiting London, or you are a foreign tourist, there are ways to save many pounds from the cost of visiting this expensive city. With a little foresight, anyone can apply the tips above to cut the costs of food, travel, and lodging, ensuring that their money goes farther where it counts.