What happens if you don't tap out the London bus?

Avoiding Unexpected London Bus Fares: The Importance of Tap-in/Tap-out

London’s integrated public transport system, while efficient, relies on a crucial step for accurate fare calculation: the tap-in/tap-out function. Skipping this seemingly simple process can lead to significant and unwelcome surprises. Failing to tap your contactless card or Oyster card both before and after your journey results in a default fare calculation that can be dramatically higher than the actual cost.

The system, designed for efficiency and minimizing manual intervention, anticipates that you will use the automatic payment technology. If you don’t tap out, the system assumes the longest possible journey based on the zones you entered, leading to the maximum possible fare. This could be substantial. Instead of the correct, calculated price, you could be charged the full, zone-based maximum fare.

Understanding this automatic calculation is critical for avoiding potential financial issues. The seemingly minor act of tapping your card in and out is essential for precise fare reconciliation. For those using contactless cards, a simple tap on the reader, even if brief or slightly off, usually suffices. For Oyster cards, ensure a clear and firm contact with the reader to ensure proper data transfer.

Failing to comply with this protocol isn’t just about a small extra payment; it can lead to frustration, potential travel disruptions and even the need to rectify the error by contacting Transport for London (TfL). The simple act of correctly tapping your card avoids these issues.

In summary, maintaining the integrity of the London bus fare system is straightforward: tap in and tap out with your contactless card or Oyster card. By following this protocol, you guarantee accurate fare calculation and avoid unexpected financial burdens.