Travelcards are pretty much a thing of the past. Whereas ten years ago, paper Travelcards were available in many validities, they are now only available for one day. 7-day travelcards are only available to load onto Oyster cards and, unless you are using it a lot every single day, it is not as cost effective as the Oyster cards.
- Cost effective: It is the cheapest way to pay for single journeys (50% less than buying paper Travelcards or single tickets with cash). Special pink card readers can make your journeys even cheaper.
- Covers London public transport: London Underground, bus, tram, Docklands Light Rail, London Overground, TfL Rail, Thames Clippers River Bus and most National Rail services in London. It is valid in all travel zones and automatically calculates the cheapest total fare for all the journeys you make in a single day. It even gives you a discount on the Emirates Air Line cable car that crosses the river between the Royal Dock and Greenwich.
- Ready-to-use: Your card is activated and preloaded so it is ready to use when you arrive – no need to queue up at the station.
- Easy: Touch it to the yellow card reader at the gates (just like tap-and-go credit cards) when you start and end your journey.
- Pay-as-you-go: If you decide on doing more travel, you can easily top up the card in London at most Underground, DLR, London Overground, TfL Rail and most National Rail stations, Transport for London visitor centres, as well as over 4000 local shops in London called Oyster Ticket Stops (clearly signposted).
- Price capping: You can travel as much as you like in a single day and the amount you pay for your travel is limited (or capped). The cap depends on which zones in which you travel.
- Offers and discounts: Various London attractions, restaurants, and experiences, as well as the Emirates Air Line offer discounts or have special offers for London Visitor Oyster Card users.
- Never expires: You can stash your Oyster card for your next trip and, even if it is many years later, it will still work. All you need to do is top up when you’re there and you’re ready to go!
- No photo ID required. There is no need for any photo ID, proof of address, passport, etc. Just buy it and go!
