Last reviewed: · Prices in British Pounds Sterling (£ GBP) and US Dollars ($ USD) are approximate and for orientation only.
Contactless Bank Card vs Oyster Card: Which Should You Use?
For 95% of visitors, you do not need to buy a £7 plastic Oyster card. Simply tap your contactless Visa, Mastercard, Amex, or Apple/Google Pay device on the yellow card reader at Tube, Elizabeth Line, DLR, Overground, and London Bus gates. TfL automatically calculates the lowest daily and Monday–Sunday weekly cap.
2026 TfL Daily & Weekly Fare Caps
- Zones 1–2 (Central London sights): £8.50 daily cap / £42.70 weekly cap.
- Zones 1–3 (Greenwich, Kew, Wimbledon): £10.00 daily cap / £50.20 weekly cap.
- Zones 1–6 (Heathrow Airport & Hampton Court): £15.60 daily cap / £78.00 weekly cap.
- London Buses & Trams Only: £1.75 Hopper Fare (unlimited bus transfers within 60 minutes) capped at £5.25 per day.
Golden Rule: Always Tap In AND Out With the Exact Same Device
Never tap in with your physical plastic card and tap out with Apple Pay on your phone — TfL's system sees two different encrypted card numbers and will charge two maximum incomplete-journey fares.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most important tip for London Tube, Bus & Contactless Guide?
Why you don't need to buy an Oyster card in 2026: how contactless bank cards and Apple/Google Pay calculate London Zone 1–6 daily (£8.50–£15.60) and Monday–Sunday weekly fare caps.
Can I pay with a contactless card or Apple/Google Pay?
Yes — contactless Visa, Mastercard, and Apple/Google Pay are accepted across 99% of UK trains, buses, Tube gates, pubs, and attractions in £ GBP.
Official sources & further reading
Rules, prices and schedules change. Confirm details here before you travel: