When you think of travel budget, the total amount of money you plan to spend on a trip, including food, transport, and activities. Also known as trip budget, it's not about how little you spend—it's about how wisely you spend it. London doesn't have to break the bank. You can eat well, ride the Tube, see world-class art, and still have cash left for ice cream. The trick? Knowing where the money actually goes—and where you can skip it.
A travel budget, the total amount of money you plan to spend on a trip, including food, transport, and activities. Also known as trip budget, it's not about how little you spend—it's about how wisely you spend it. isn’t just about cutting corners. It’s about swapping expensive habits for smart ones. For example, instead of paying £25 for a sandwich at a tourist spot, grab a £3 vegan wrap from a market stall. Instead of buying single Tube tickets, load an Oyster card and let it cap your daily spend. You’ll save money without feeling like you’re missing out. And yes, you can still see the National Gallery, walk through Neal’s Yard, and catch a live jazz set—all for free or under £10.
Transport is where most visitors overspend. A single Tube ride can cost over £5. But with a daily cap, you can ride the DLR, Overground, and Tube all day for less than £8.50. That’s cheaper than a coffee at some airport kiosks. And if you’re staying a few days, a 7-day Travelcard might save you even more. Don’t forget: many museums, including the National Portrait Gallery and the V&A, are free. You’re not paying for the art—you’re paying for the time you spend there. Use that time wisely.
Food is another big leak in your travel budget. You don’t need to eat at a Michelin-starred hotel bar to have a great meal. Some of London’s best bites are in Chinatown, Peckham, and Camden—where you can get authentic dim sum, vegan donuts, or a hearty bowl of noodles for under £8. The Little London Vegan proves you can eat plant-based for less than £5 a meal. And if you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen, buy bread, cheese, and fruit from a local supermarket. It’s not glamorous, but it’s real.
People think London is expensive because they’re comparing it to places where everything is cheap—and they’re paying for the wrong things. You don’t need to see Harrods to understand luxury. You don’t need to book a £150 dinner to feel like you’ve experienced the city. You just need to know where to look. The posts below show you exactly that: how to eat vegan on a budget, how to claim a TfL refund when you’re overcharged, how to find hidden bars and free art, and how to stretch every pound without losing the magic. This isn’t a list of hacks. It’s a guide to living like a local—even if you’re only here for three days.
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