Before you fly
- Check whether you need an ETA. Most visitors who don't need a visa now need an Electronic Travel Authorisation, including children. Apply only through GOV.UK or the official UK ETA app.
- Check your passport is valid for your whole stay.
- Tell your bank you are travelling, and check its fees for overseas card payments.
Money and cards
The currency is the pound sterling (£). Contactless card and phone payments are accepted almost everywhere, from Tube barriers to market stalls, and some places are card-only. It is still worth carrying a little cash for small purchases.
Prices in shops include VAT (sales tax), so the price on the label is what you pay. Note that Great Britain no longer offers VAT refunds on in-store purchases for tourists: the scheme ended at the start of 2021. Airport duty-free shops and goods shipped directly overseas by the retailer are the main exceptions.
Plugs and power
The UK uses three-pin Type G plugs and 230V electricity. Most phone and laptop chargers handle 230V, but check hair dryers and straighteners from countries that use 110V. Bring an adapter, or buy one at the airport.
Phones and Wi-Fi
Check your roaming charges before you travel, or buy a UK SIM or eSIM on arrival. Airports, many Tube stations, cafés and hotels offer free Wi-Fi. If you've booked a transfer, make sure your driver can reach you, ideally on WhatsApp.
Emergency and health numbers
- 999 (or 112): police, ambulance and fire in an emergency.
- 111: NHS urgent medical advice when it is not an emergency.
- 101: police, non-emergency.
Pharmacies (chemists) can advise on minor illnesses, and many open late in central London.
Crossing the road
Traffic drives on the left, so look right first. Many central London crossings have "LOOK RIGHT" or "LOOK LEFT" painted on the road. Use the crossings, as London's traffic, buses and bikes move quickly.
Getting from the airport
After a long flight, a pre-booked car is the calmest way into the city. At Heathrow, Gatwick and London City, Meet & Greet is included and your driver waits inside arrivals, with your flight tracked so delays are covered.
Frequently asked questions
Can tourists get a VAT refund in London?
Not on normal in-store purchases. Great Britain ended its VAT refund scheme for tourists at the start of 2021. Airport duty-free and goods shipped overseas by the retailer are the main exceptions.
What plug do I need for London?
The UK uses three-pin Type G plugs and 230V electricity, so most visitors need an adapter.
What is the emergency number in the UK?
Call 999 (or 112) for police, ambulance or fire in an emergency. For urgent medical advice that isn't an emergency, call NHS 111.
Is cash still needed in London?
Rarely. Contactless cards and phones are accepted almost everywhere, including all public transport, but a little cash can be handy for small purchases.
Sources
Checked on 30 October 2026. Rules and dates can change, so please confirm with the official source before you travel.