Firstly, you need to check the arrangements that have been made for reaching London. In case you are going through a train, you have the opportunity of getting APEX fares, if you book well in advance. It will help you in saving a considerable amount of money. A reverse, last minute deals, holds true for air transportation. They are cheaper when booked at the last moment. You can check out the web for cheaper flights. After arriving to the station or airport, underground trains and buses are cheaper than hiring a taxi.
Accommodation in London
If you opt for a luxurious accommodation in London, it will definitely be expensive. For budget vacations, it is better to opt for rooms in cheaper bed & breakfasts or hotels. All you need in such cases is a place where you can sleep and leave the luggage. If you are on a vacation with your family, you should book a family room rather than 2-3 separate rooms. Again, some of these hotels have breakfast served. Make sure that you do not miss out on those, as it will help you to save some money on your lunch.
Travelling in the City
On the very first day in the city, you should buy a Travelcard for everyone in your group. It allows everyone to have unlimited access on buses, tubes and Thames Clipper riverboats. These cards can cover numerous zones and you may check them at every tube station. However, do make a prior decision on the zone, as you will need to enjoy a particular card to avail the facilities.
For visiting major attractions like St. Paul Cathedral, Madam Tussauds Museum and Kensington Palace, you should opt for London Passes. They serve you with free access of over 50 sights alongside traveling accommodation. You may even get discounted meals at certain restaurants.
Free Attractions of London
There are a number of attractions, which serve you with free access. They include British Museum, Science Museum, House of Parliament, Convent Garden, Hyde Park, Regents Park and Green Park. Most of these attractions have specific rules when it comes to visiting them. Do check it out on their respected websites.
Theatres in London
You should queue to at Leicester Square Booth to get tickets at half the rates for London Theaters. Some of the shows have standing tickets, as they are sold out during weekends. However, you would need to have the patience to stand the entire length of the show.
Food in London
You should not buy meals from tourist attractions, as the prices are bound to be higher than others are. Instead, you should find café, where locales have their meal, as they are bound to be cheaper. You might even get better food over here.
These are only few of the tips, which you can follow to make your London stay affordable.