13 Tube hacks every London newbie needs
Visiting London as an international student or professional? One of the first things you’ll need to figure out is how to get around – and for most people, that means mastering the London Underground, better known as the Tube.
The Tube is London’s rapid transit system: a sprawling network of 11 lines, nearly 300 stations, and over 400 km of track running across the city and beyond. It’s fast, affordable, and reaches almost everywhere, but it can also feel like a labyrinth when you’re new.
Colour-coded maps, unexpected closures, confusing line splits, limited mobile signal underground… it’s a lot to take in. But with a few simple hacks, you’ll go from lost tourist to confident commuter in no time.
Here are 13 smart Tube tips to help you travel like a Londoner:
1. Understand the zones
London is divided into fare zones (1 to 9). The more zones you travel through, the more you’ll pay. Knowing where you live, study, or work in relation to the zones can help you budget smarter and/or pick the right travelcard.
2. Use your student discounts
If you’re eligible, get both the:
18+ Student Oyster Card – 30% off weekly and monthly Travelcards.
16 – 25 Railcard or International Student Railcard – Link it to your Oyster at any Tube station to get 1/3 off off-peak Tube and train fares.
Pro tip: You can use both – and the savings add up fast, especially if you’re commuting daily.
3. Master the pink readers
If you’re changing lines but not exiting the station, look out for the pink card readers – they’re usually found in passageways between platforms at big interchange stations like Stratford, Canada Water, or Willesden Junction.
Tapping your Oyster or contactless card on a pink reader tells the system you're continuing your journey, not starting a new one. This matters when your route could take you through central London (Zone 1) or around it.
Skip the tap, and you might get charged as if you travelled through Zone 1 – even if you didn’t.
4. Beware of splits in the line
Some lines don’t just go in one direction – they split into different branches, meaning trains on the same line can head to completely different destinations. The Northern, District, and Piccadilly lines are especially tricky. Always check that the train you're on is going to the right branch for your stop.
Quick fix: Check the front of the train or the platform signs before boarding. Use Google Maps to double-check your route – it shows which branch to take and even tells you which carriage is best for a faster exit.
5. Know your interchange stations
Some stations are great for quick changes – others feel like a marathon underground. Green Park = smooth. Bank = chaos. Plan your transfers with intention.
Tip: The TFL’s journey planner shows the easiest interchanges when mapping your route.
6. Avoid the Circle Line for long trips
The Circle Line is great for getting around central London, but it’s not your best bet for long distances. It’s slower, less frequent, and – true to its name – loops. Use faster lines like Jubilee, Central, or Victoria for longer journeys.
7. Avoid rush hour if you can
Weekday mornings (7:30 – 9:30am) and evenings (5 – 7pm) are intense. Trains get packed, and delays are more common.
If your schedule allows, shift your travel a little earlier or later. Your future self will thank you.
8. Travel Off-Peak when possible
Off-Peak fares kick in after 9:30am on weekdays and all day on weekends. They’re cheaper – and usually less crowded. Great for midday lectures, brunch, or exploring the city.
9. Check last train times
The Tube doesn’t run all night. Most lines shut down around midnight Sunday through Thursday. The Night Tube runs on limited lines (like Central and Victoria) on Fridays and Saturdays only.
Late plans? Make sure you know your last train, or get ready for a long walk, Uber, or night bus.
10. Walk between close stations
Not all Tube journeys are worth it. Some stations are only a four to five minute walk apart – like Covent Garden to Leicester Square or Charing Cross to Embankment.
Before tapping in, check Google Maps. You might save money and time just by walking.
11. Ride in the front or back
Most people crowd into the middle carriages – which means the ends of the train are often less busy. This is especially helpful if you’re travelling with luggage or just want a bit more space.
12. Bring something offline
There’s no phone signal in most tunnels – and free Wi-Fi is only available at stations, not between them. Download a podcast or playlist ahead of time so you're not staring at a blank screen in a packed carriage. Better still, pack a physical book for reading.
13. Stand to the right
Finally, escalator etiquette is a must in London. Always stand on the right so people can pass on the left. Blocking the way? That’s a guaranteed way to annoy a local – fast.
A little about us
Once you’ve got the Tube figured out, London feels a whole lot smaller. And a lot more manageable. Whether you’re heading to class, work, or just across town for coffee, these hacks will help you move through the city with confidence.
Looking for an apartment in London close to a tube station? We offer private, all-inclusive accommodation across the city, in prime locations and zones and near major Tube lines. With extras like 24/7 concierge, on-site gyms, stylish interiors, and weekly cleaning.
If you have any questions or need a hand with your accommodation search, feel free to get in touch – we’re always happy to help.
