Backpacker’s Guide to Hop-on Hop-off Buses in London

backpacker’s-guide-to-hop-on-hop-off-buses-in-london

Listen, I get it. Back in my backpacking days, I would never even think about dropping £20 on a tour. Every penny mattered. But then I was in Panama, and I caved… and wow, it was one of the most epic experiences of that trip. London in 2026 is the same. If you time it right and follow a few simple rules, a hop-on hop-off bus can totally transform your first day in the city.

Here’s the thing: a HOHO ticket doesn’t have to break the bank. Right now, there’s a kind of price war between the main companies, and you could easily snag a day ticket for less than 30£. That’s a steal for the convenience, views, and sheer fun you get.

There are three companies you really need to check out:

• Tootbus - Known for their "eco-friendly" vibe, they often run flash sales (sometimes up to 40% off on specific weekdays

• TopView - Newcomer in the city, trying to make an impression, usually has the best bundles and great discounts.

• Golden Tours - Really affordable options, plus one of the few companies that still offer live guides on some buses. While most buses have pre-recorded audio, catching a bus with a Live English Guide is a game changer. These guides are often aspiring actors or history buffs who know the city’s secrets - from which pub serves the cheapest pint to the best "locals-only" viewpoints. That information alone can save you money for the rest of your trip.

Pro tip: if the online prices don’t make sense to you, walk up to the street staff, chat them up, and try a little bargaining - you might walk away with a deal that feels almost naughty (wink).

If you can snag a HOHO ticket for less than 30£ with a river cruise included, take it. Use it to scout your "must-visit" spots, then use the public buses for the rest of your trip. It’s the smartest "luxury" a backpacker can buy.

How to use it like a backpacker :

• Start early. The earlier you hop on, the more value you squeeze out of your ticket.

• Do a full loop first without getting off. This gives you the big picture.

• Mark 2–3 spots you actually want to explore. Don’t overdo it.

• Use the HOHO as your “scouting mission”, not your entire trip.

• Day 2? Switch to public buses and save money.

When it’s NOT worth it:

• Rainy day (top deck becomes pointless)

• You’ve already been to London before

• You love walking and figuring things out slowly

If that’s you, skip it.

If you still can’t justify the HOHO cost, you can still cross London for less than £10  using the public transport. I wrote an in depth article about my favorite budget trip across London, check it out here : Trafalgar Square to Greenwich Route: London’s Best Budget Sightseeing Hack