Landing in the UK for the first time in your life can seem daunting. As an international student who went through the same process last year, I’d love to share some practical tips on choosing the right transportation to travel to your accommodation.

Before you arrive

I know, I know. As you’re about to begin a new chapter in your life, your heart will be pounding with excitement and fear. To take the first step right, I strongly recommend that you have an international debit or credit card with you. No matter which transportation you choose to take from the airport to London, you’ll have to pay a fare. Even if you choose to open a UK bank account with a digital bank (such as Monzo or Starling), you’ll have to wait until the card is delivered to your accommodation. In other words, your international card will be the only method you’ll have to pay your way into London.

Secondly, get familiar with the location of your accommodation. It’s good to know where the closest bus stop and tube and train stations are since you’ll be taking them from day one, unless you prefer (and can afford!) to take a taxi or uber.

Lots of luggage? Better take a taxi

Moving to London alone for the first time may involve travelling with a lot of luggage. Although taxis are an expensive option, they might be the best option if you are carrying a heavy load and want to get to your new place as soon as possible with no stops. While you’ll easily find empty black taxis lined up outside the airport, it’s a bit cheaper to call one from a taxi company, such as Uber or Bolt. You can choose the type of taxi you need depending on the number and size of your suitcases as well. Since these taxi services work through a mobile application, it’s recommended that you have a UK SIM card in your phone before you land in the UK. If you don’t have one, fret not. All international airports in the UK have vending machines that sell UK SIM cards, although it’s usually more expensive than buying one in the city. You can change them later once you’ve settled down in your accommodation.

Less luggage? Why not the tube or rail?

If you can manage your luggage without a taxi, taking the tube or the train is a good option – for it’s way cheaper than a taxi! At Heathrow Airport, you can take the Elizabeth Line into central London or the Heathrow Express to Paddington. At Gatwick Airport, you can take the Gatwick Express to London Victoria; and at Stansted Airport, you can take the Stansted Express to London Liverpool Street. Once you arrive in central London, if your accommodation is not near the arrival station, you’ll have to transfer to another train or tube line. Factor that into your journey and plan ahead with the help of the Transport for London website.

How to book cheaper one-way train and tube tickets

Book them early. As long as you have an international credit or debit card with you, you can book tickets online – whether that be Trainline, National Rail, or whatnot. The sooner you book, the cheaper the tickets will be. Once you have the ticket collection reference with you, you can easily print the physical ticket at the airport ticket machine without any extra charges. 

The airport is only the start of your journey as you move into London. Good luck!