What are travelcards?

What are travelcards?

Travelcard is a paper ticket or digital pass that provides unlimited travel on London’s public transport network within specified zones. It covers:

  • London Underground (Tube)
  • London Overground
  • Buses
  • Trams
  • Docklands Light Railway (DLR)
  • Elizabeth Line
  • National Rail services within London zones

Types of Travelcards

  1. Daily Travelcards
    • Valid for unlimited travel for one day, from early morning until 4:30 a.m. the next day.
    • Useful for visitors planning multiple journeys in one day.
  2. Weekly, Monthly, or Annual Travelcards
    • Valid for unlimited travel for 7 days, a month, or a year.
    • Cost-effective for regular commuters.

Zones and Pricing

  • London is divided into 9 zones, with Zone 1 covering central London and higher numbers for outer areas.
  • The cost of a Travelcard depends on the zones it covers (e.g., Zones 1–2, Zones 1–6).

How to Buy a Travelcard

  1. Oyster Card:
    • Add a Travelcard to an Oyster card for convenience.
  2. Paper Travelcard:
    • Purchase at ticket machines or stations.
  3. Contactless Payment:
    • While not a traditional Travelcard, contactless cards and devices cap your daily and weekly fares at Travelcard rates, offering similar benefits.

Who Should Use a Travelcard?

  • Visitors: Ideal if you’re travelling multiple times in one day.
  • Commuters: Weekly or monthly Travelcards save money on regular commutes.
  • Families and Groups: Paper Travelcards can be combined with discounts like the 2-for-1 offers at attractions.

Tip: For occasional travel, consider using an Oyster card or contactless payment for automatic fare capping, which might be cheaper than a Travelcard.