If you've ever thought about a London trip but figured it was way out of your price range, you're not alone. Most people assume Londons just for the rich or those who plan a year ahead. But if you knew what locals and savvy travelers did in 2018, you could score an unforgettable experiencewithout maxing out your card. I'm about to share the low cost London travel 2018 formula people used to pull off amazing trips with pocket change left over. You'll get smart moves, honest heads-ups, and real ways to make it work, even if your bank account is dusty.
How Do You Fly to London Without Going Broke?
Flights to London usually eat up your trip budget, but there are better ways to book. In 2018, cheap London trips started with:
- Flying midweek (Tuesday and Wednesday) when prices drop
- Checking both major and smaller airports around London
- Booking 6-8 weeks ahead for the sweet spot fare
- Steering clear of summer and holiday rush (go in spring or fall for real deals)
- Signing up for flight alertsapps pinged you every time prices crashed
Why bother? Every dollar saved here equals more for food or a must-see show. But here's what trips people up: waiting for a magical last-minute deal. Sometimes that does work, but mostly it leads to panic-booking and sticker shock.
Where Can You Sleep in London for Less?
Hotels in central London can be brutal. But back in 2018, your best bets included:
- Hostels (not only for party kidsmany have family rooms and kitchens)
- Airbnbs outside the tourist zones
- Budget hotels like Premier Inn or easyHotel
- University dorms rented out during holidays
- House-sitting for Londoners on vacation (free! if you can snag one)
What matters is picking a spot near the Tube. Even if you pay a little more, you'll save on time and transit. Try not to fall for ultra-cheap deals that are miles away. Youll waste hours commuting, and it totally kills the vibe.
Which Attractions Are Actually Affordable?
You dont have to see everything. Focus on what you love and whats budget-friendly. Heres how people in 2018 did affordable London vacation days:
- Walking toursmany were free or pay-what-you-like
- Museums: the British Museum, Tate, National Galleryall free entry
- Parks: Hyde Park, Regents Park, and Hampstead Heath
- Street markets for food and people-watching (Borough Market or Camden)
- Discount tickets for theaters (TKTS booth or day-of apps)
Skip pricey tourist traps with long lines unless youre dying to go. A few splurges are okayjust pick what matters most. The goal: come home with stories, not regrets about your card bill.
How Much Should You Budget Daily in London?
London can seem unpredictable, price-wise, but in 2018 these were real daily numbers (per person):
- Bed: $20-50 (hostel or budget Airbnb)
- Transit: $10 on an Oyster card (for Tube/buses)
- Food: $15-25 (supermarkets + street eats, plus 1-2 pub meals)
- Sights/Stuff: $5-20 (mix free + a paid show/museum)
Add it up and most pulled off days around $55-100, depending on choices. Mistake to avoid? Splurging on souvenirs or fancy dinners every night. Do those once, not every night.
How Did Travelers Cut Costs That Most Miss?
The best low cost London travel 2018 secrets arent on glossy websites:
- Befriending locals at pubs for the inside scoop (and maybe a free drink)
- Using supermarket meal deals (sandwich, chips, drink for a few pounds)
- Buying a refillable water bottle instead of endless plastic
- Walking everywhere for neighborhoods youd miss by Tube
- Timing attraction visits late afternoon, when last entries are discounted
Small moves add up, especially over a week. The hidden danger? Packing your schedule too tight. Youll burn out and spend more running around. Give yourself downtime, free walks, and unplanned snacks.
Whats the Biggest Mistake With Budget London Travel?
Trying to see and do what everyone online recommends, instead of picking what you really care about. The magic of cheap London trips in 2018 wasnt following crowd lists, but making your own. Ask yourself: What do I love? What will I remember a year from now? Build your days around those. Want to see a famous painting? Make that your splurge. Happy roaming markets? Go wild there. Thats how you avoid both FOMO and blowing your bank account.
FAQs About Low Cost London Travel 2018
- How can I get cheap flights to London in 2018?
Book 6-8 weeks early, check less popular London airports, and fly on weekdays like Tuesday. It saved most people money back then. Last-minute deals happened sometimes, but planning was safer. - Is it safe to stay in hostels for a budget London trip?
Yes, most London hostels in 2018 were safe, especially big chains or highly rated ones. Check reviews, secure your stuff, and use the lockers. Many families and solo travelers did this without problems. - Can you actually eat cheap in London?
Definitely. Go for supermarket meal deals, street food stalls, and local cafes. Dont eat at tourist-filled spots in the city center every night. Locals liked quick bites and pub meals that didnt cost a fortune. - Whats the best way to get around London affordably?
Use an Oyster card for the Tube and busesit cuts fares. Walking works for many neighborhoods. Avoid cabs unless youre stuck late at night. Public transit was your friend in 2018. - Are free attractions in London really worth it?
Yes! Museums, parks, and certain events were top picks for budget travelers in 2018. Many travelers loved them more than pricey guided tours. Free stuff made trips more flexible and fun for everyone. - Should I book tickets for attractions in advance?
For really popular sites, yesbook ahead to save money and avoid disappointment. For most museums and markets in 2018, you didnt need to, because entry was free or lines were short outside holidays.
The real formula? Pick your priorities, watch your spending, and be open to going off the usual path. You'll not only save moneyyou'll remember the trip far longer, too. Try it this year and see how it feels to experience London for less.
