London Setup
Sort transport payment early so London feels usable from the first journey
A setup-focused guide to choosing contactless, Oyster or backup travel payment in your first week.
Quick answer
Set up travel payment
Most adults can start with contactless if their card works, but a backup matters in week one while banking and phone setup settle.
- Use one card/device consistently.
- Keep a backup payment method.
- Do not buy long passes before routine is clear.
What to use first
The fastest first move is usually contactless or mobile wallet if it works with your card and fees.
- Check foreign transaction fees.
- Use the same payment method for the journey.
- Keep a backup card or Oyster option.
When Oyster helps
Oyster is useful if your card does not work, you want separation or you qualify for certain discounts.
Do not optimise too early
Your week-one travel pattern is not your settled London life.
| Stage | Best move | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Arrival day | Simple pay as you go | Low admin |
| First week | Track routes and spend | Learn routine |
| After housing/job | Consider caps or passes | Better data |
Setup mistakes
Transport setup should reduce friction, not add products you do not need.
- Mixing cards on the same journey.
- Buying a pass before knowing commute.
- Relying on a phone with low battery.
- Forgetting airport transfer cost.
Personalised
Browse the Setup hubBuild your first-week transport setup plan
Landing Connect can connect transport payment with phone, banking and arrival steps.
- Contactless
- Oyster
- Arrival
- Backup
Takes a few minutes - Free - No sign-up required
Need the deeper transport breakdown?
Use the transport guide for fare caps and payment detail.
Open transport guide →