Guide To Living in London on A Budget

Transport - Cheapest Ways to Move Around The City

Bus

Traveling by Bus is one of the best options if you're looking to save some money. Why "bussing it" is the best choice:

1. It's cheap! Any trip, no matter how short or long will cost you £1,5.
2. It's the best way to get to know the city. Free tour bus!
3. London Buses are expected to be electric or hydrogen buses by 2020. The green choice!

*If you're new in London, first thing you must do is download the CityMapper app on your phone! It's the best app to find the best updated transport options to move around the city.

Railcard Discount

Although it took me a while to discover the Railcard Discount, when I did get it, it was the best investment of the year.

There are two options (click on them for all the information and for purchase):

1. The 16-25 Railcard.
2. The 26-30 Railcard.

Both Railcards are offering a 1/3 discount on a variety of travel tickets. Wether you want to book a train ticket to the airport or travel around the UK, this is your best option. It will cost you £30 for the whole year, but believe me, you'll save much more than that!

London Underground - Travel Off peak

Another tip for traveling cheap is to use the tube during off peak hours/days. Here all the off peak traveling slots:

On Tube, DLR, London Overground, TfL Rail and National Rail services in London:

• Peak fares - Monday to Friday (not on public holidays) between 06:30 and 09:30, and between 16:00 and 19:00
• Off-peak fares - at all other times and if you travel from a station outside Zone 1 to a station in Zone 1 between 16:00 and 19:00, Monday to Friday

If you're travelling on London Overground between Euston (National Rail station) and Watford Junction:

• Peak fares - from Watford Junction towards Euston (Southbound), Monday to Friday between 06:30 and 09:30 (not on public holidays). From Euston towards Watford Junction (Northbound), peak fares apply Monday to Friday between 16:00 and 19:00 (not on public holidays)
• Off-peak fares - at all other times

Using night services

• Night Tube and London Overground Night Service fares are always off-peak.

Food & Drink- Budget Restaurants and Cheap Options

Too Good To Go /Food Bargain App

This app is looking to put an end to food waste around the world. The idea: Getting restaurants, supermarkets and any other food related businesses to sell their "end of the day" products for a fraction of its original price. With prices ranging from £2 - £4 they guarantee a bargain.

But, there's a twist! Your purchased package is a surprise! You won't be able to choose what you get but instead you'll be surprised. Not a good option for picky eaters, but perfect for those who are adventurous.

The app does showcase the restaurant into different categories letting customer pic vegetarian or vegan only packages. This definitely a plus!

My experience has always been to notch with this app.

OLIO /Food-Sharing App

Another app aiming to end food waste is Olio. They do so by enabling food-sharing among neighbours. Connecting those with food they don't want or need (perhaps food that will be waste while on holidays) with those need or wish to consume such food. The food must be edible; it can be raw or cooked, sealed or open.

I personally never tried the app but I will in the future. Let's end food waste!

DUSK / Drink Discounts App

Going out for a drink can get expensive in London, but don't worry, here's the solution. DUSK offers free drinks and discounts on a variety of Bars all over London. Ive tried it for a while (even when it was called Drinki) and it's great for the pocket!

Shopping in London - Best Apps and Markets

Shpock / Buy and Sell Second Hand Items

Looking to buy or sell a second hand item? Shopck is definitely my favourite app to do so. Not only I manage to sell things quick but also I've bought great bargains through this app. From second hand bikes to furniture, you'll find anything you need!

Freecycle /Get and Give for Free!

They say sharing is caring right? We'll here's your best shot at it! Freecycle let's you give things you don't need any more or get them from other people, all at a rate of... nothing!