London Prep:
What You Need, What I Wish I Had, and What Social Media Lied About
Setting off for a trip to London? You're in for an unforgettable experience! London’s rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant city life are waiting to be explored. But before you immerse yourself in all that London has to offer, let’s go over some essential preparation tips to ensure your journey goes smoothly.
1. Packing Smart for London
London has specific rules for packing, especially when it comes to toiletries. All liquids, gels, and creams must be under 100ml and fit inside a one-quart-sized clear plastic bag. Sometimes, airport security might require you to transfer your items into a bag they provide, so be prepared for that. Packing light and adhering to these guidelines will help you breeze through security checks.
London’s weather can be unpredictable, so packing layers is a smart move. Bring a mix of clothing suitable for different conditions and don't forget a good pair of comfortable walking shoes. My last visit had sunny skies with warm weather, cool winds that required me to buy a warmer coat, and rain.
2. Smooth Sailing Through Customs
One of the first things you’ll notice upon arrival at London Heathrow Airport (LHR) is the efficiency of the customs process. London uses EGATES (electronic gates) to usher in tourists, making the experience quick and paperless. While this system speeds up entry, it also means you might miss out on getting a passport stamp unless you are randomly chosen for additional screening. You’ll have no direct contact with a customs agent unless selected for extra checks, making the entry process seamless. Also, watch this quick video for more information!
There are 2 main airports in London- London Heathrow Airport (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW). Make sure you research which you are flying into.
3. Budget for Your Trip
Let's address the elephant in the room – the British Pound can be expensive. The conversion rate for 1 Pound is pretty high for all of the major currencies. However, the cost can vary depending on your choices. If you're loyal to certain brands and have collected points and miles, you can leverage them to cut down on expenses. In our experience, Hotels, Ubers, and Food can easily bust your budget if you are not careful.
4. Transit Card and Google Maps
London’s public transportation system is efficient and easy to use. You might have heard about physical transit cards, Oyster, for traveling around London, but here's a nifty tip: you don't necessarily need one. If you're a smart phone user, you can add your transit card, then reload it as you go. It's convenient and saves you the hassle of digging for exact change. You can use either for travel on the Tube, buses, and some trains. Walking and cycling are also great ways to explore the city. You can rent a bike using apps like Santander Cycles. Google Maps works well for navigating public transportation, but note that some trains are older, smaller, and more crowded than others. Also, check out these quick videos for more information!
5. Staying Connected
Having Airalo at the ready is a game-changer for obtaining an ESIM. Personally, as an AT&T user, I've experienced the $10-a-day charge for international data, and it's disheartening to pay so much only to encounter subpar service. It also avoids the hassle of purchasing a physical SIM card, which can sometimes lead to scams. Airalo simplifies the process, providing a convenient and secure way to ensure you have reliable connectivity without breaking the bank. Also, check out these quick videos for more information!
In conclusion, Japan is an incredible destination, offering a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Understanding these tips before your journey will make your experience even more enjoyable and memorable. For more London trip planning tips and assistance, be sure to check out our other posts for more. Now you can book a session with us as your Travel Advisor for expert advice on your next trip! Email info@travelismylifestyle.com to get a call scheduled to book your next adventure.
Click for Step-by-Step Checklist for your London Adventure
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