One of my favorite cities to visit over and over again has to be London, England. The history, the architecture and of course the pubs! But as fun as this city might be, it can at times be a tad bit pricey. So one way to make sure you are not spending pounds like they are going out of style is to purchase a Visitor Oyster Card.

Whether you’re a regular visitor to London or this is your first time visiting, using a Visitor Oyster is the simplest way to access London’s public transport system.

This handy little card, with the London skyline adorning it, will also help you save some serious cash when you decide to travel throughout the city of London.

Fares are much cheaper on public transportation when you use a Visitor Oyster compared to paying cash. For example, let’s say one ride on the tube cost £4 ($6.44 U.S.), with a Visitor Oyster that same fare will only set you back £1.50 ($2.41 U.S.).

Another good feature is that the card never expires. So, say you only used some of the Visitor Oyster on your initial trip. No problem! Just save it and continue spending less on London transportation the next go-around.

If you prefer to get your money back, then bring the unused portion of the card to the nearest station and they will kindly refund you the balance.

The Visitor Oyster Card is valid for use on the Tube, buses, trams, Docklands Light Railway, London Overground and a few National Rail services.

So chances are you will find yourself on at least one of these means of transportation during your visit to the United Kingdom’s largest city.

Use the card as much as you want each day as £6.70 is the maximum amount you will be charged per 24-hours. So take as many trips around central London at peak times as your little wandering heart desires.

Please note that the Visitor Oyster does incur a £2 activation fee, which is included in your purchase price. Cards come in values of £10, £20, £30, £40 or £50 worth of travel.

There are two ways to purchase a Visitor Oyster Card:

1) You can skip the long lines and hassle by ordering online.

2) Pick one up in person at any station around London.

For more information about where to travel throughout this great city with your Oyster, check out the official CheapOair London Travel Guide.

Image courtesy of VisitBritain