Do you tag off on London buses?

London Bus Travel: No Need to Tap Off

London’s extensive public transport network, encompassing buses and trams, boasts a straightforward and efficient touch-on system. Unlike some other transit systems, there’s no requirement to tap your contactless payment card or Oyster card when exiting a bus or tram. This “tap-on, only” approach is crucial to the system’s smooth operation and avoids potential overcharging.

Passengers simply touch their payment device on the reader at the front of the vehicle when boarding. This action registers the journey commencement and automatically calculates the fare based on the distance traveled. There is no need to touch anything again upon exiting. Attempting to tap off could lead to unnecessary and confusing charges, potentially resulting in a financial discrepancy for passengers.

This streamlined system ensures minimal interaction with the machines and avoids the potential for delays, especially during peak hours. The automated fare calculation is designed for both efficiency and fairness, ensuring passengers are charged accurately for their journeys. The “tap-on, only” policy is integral to the smooth operation and low cost of London’s public transport.