How much is a contactless bus fare in London?

Decoding London’s Contactless Bus Fare: A Simple Guide

Navigating London’s public transport can feel like deciphering an ancient code, but understanding the contactless fare system for buses is surprisingly straightforward. Forget fiddling with Oyster cards or exact change – contactless payment offers a seamless and often cheaper way to travel.

The beauty of the system lies in its simplicity: a standard adult contactless payment covers the cost of a single bus journey. This applies to both buses and trams. While the precise cost isn’t fixed and depends on various factors (like time of day and specific route, though this variation is usually minimal for standard single journeys), it’s generally comparable to or cheaper than other methods. You will see the charge applied to your bank statement or credit card within a few days.

However, the true value of contactless payment in London comes into play with the Hopper fare. This ingenious system automatically applies a significant discount if you use contactless to travel multiple times within an hour. Specifically, if you tap in and out on two or more buses (or trams) within a 60-minute window, the fare for each journey after the first will be capped at just £1.75. This is crucial for those making multiple short journeys, dramatically reducing the overall cost compared to paying individually for each trip.

The Hopper fare works entirely automatically. You don’t need to register for any special scheme or activate anything. Simply tap your contactless card or device on the reader as you board and alight from each bus. The system will automatically calculate the cheapest fare possible, applying the £1.75 Hopper fare where appropriate. This means even if you’re unaware of the Hopper fare’s existence, you’ll still benefit from its cost-saving potential.

In short: While the exact cost of a single contactless bus journey fluctuates slightly, the maximum cost is considerably more than £1.75. For frequent bus users, the automatic application of the Hopper fare makes contactless payment not only convenient but also exceptionally cost-effective. So, next time you’re exploring London by bus, leave the cash at home and embrace the simplicity and savings of contactless.