This guide will equip you with essential tips for navigating British culture, planning your itinerary, and maximizing your enjoyment during your adventure in England, Scotland, Wales, & Northern Ireland.
Must-Have Apps for Exploring the United Kingdom:
CityMapper - this will help you get around larger cities or you can use Google Maps.
WhatsApp - this is a widely used app throughout Europe to communicate with International guests. Your hotel and tour operators are usually on this.
FreeNow - Taxi app that works like Uber
London Underground How To Pay
- Tap in and out: Touch your contactless card or mobile device on the yellow card reader at the start of your journey when entering the station, and again when exiting.
- Use the same device: Ensure you use the same card or device for both tapping in and tapping out to ensure you are charged the correct fare, and to benefit from daily and weekly fare capping.
- Buses and Trams: When using buses and trams, you only need to tap your card or device on the yellow reader when you get on, you do not tap when you get off.
Navigate the London Underground: by Love and London
A smart phone is pretty essential to travel these days and a lot of phone providers are starting to include International calling. T-Mobile includes international service.
Otherwise, these providers provide a daily pass option.
Verizon: Travel Pass @ $12 / day
AT&T: International Day Pass @ $12 / day
Good to Know:
When you don’t plan to use your phone, keep your phone in airplane mode and use hotel / restaurants wifi to access the internet. Also make sure to turn off Data Roaming in your device settings.
Debit Card - Bring your debit card as it is super easy to find an ATM at the airport or around town to withdraw some cash. (Mainly tips for tours or restrooms). Also let your bank know you are traveling so they do not lock your card.
Credit Card -
1. Check with your credit card company to see if they charge the 3% foreign transaction fee. (Try to avoid this if possible).
2. Tap to pay. Make sure you have your cards loaded on your phone on Apple/Android pay or have a physical card you can tap to pay. Most places/merchants use tap to pay.
3. When asked at a merchant if you want to pay in British Pounds or Dollars, always choose the local currency (this is another way credit card companies charge you extra).
As in most of Europe, its appropriate but not mandatory, to leave a few pounds as a tip for those providing services, whether a restaurant, porters or other providers. For exceptional service 5-10% is acceptable. Locals may tip more modestly and if you feel unsure, ask one!
Here is a link to our travel gear recommendations we have purchased through Amazon.
Most important:
Purses/Bags:
Large cities, unfortunately, can be hotspots for pickpockets. To minimize the risk in tourist-heavy areas, consider using a front-facing purse or a money belt that zips securely. This will help keep your valuables safe and sound while you explore.
Luggage:
I recommend packing one checked bag and a comfortable backpack as your carry-on. Simplifying your luggage will make navigating airports, trains, and city streets much easier. Always include an extra set of clothes and any essential medications in your carry-on as a precaution against lost luggage.