Last updated on September 18, 2025
Skip the Oyster card, here’s how to use iPhone on the Tube in London. Apple Pay (or another contactless mobile method) let’s you tap in and out on the Tube — even if your iPhone is nearly out of battery.
What You’ll Need
iPhone (SE / 6s or newer) or Apple Watch, updated to the latest iOS / watchOS.
A debit or credit card that supports contactless payments
Enough battery (the Wallet chip needs minimal power)
Setup Before Your Trip
Add your card to Apple Wallet Open Wallet → tap the “+” → add your bank/debit/credit card.
Enable Express Travel / Express Mode
In Wallet, open Card Details → Express Transit/Travel Settings → set your preferred card. This lets you tap without Face ID or unlocking. Check International Support Make sure your card issuer allows contactless payments abroad and is accepted in London. Contactless payment is accepted everywhere we went in Europe.
Using iphone for London underground
To enter, tap your iPhone or Apple Watch on the yellow reader at the gate. To exit, tap again at the exit gate. Use the same device both times. If your iPhone battery dies, Express Mode still works. The Power Reserve feature keeps your phone’s NFC chip active for up to five hours after the low battery icon appears. Note: this doesn’t work if you manually power the phone off.
Transport for London has more information on all the mobile options.
- Apple Pay
- Google Pay
- Garmin Pay
- Samsung Pay
- Fitbit Pay
- Barclaycard Contactless Mobile
- bPay
What You’ll Pay
You’ll pay the standard “pay as you go” fare, the same as using a contactless card. Daily fare caps apply, so you won’t pay more than a set amount per day no matter how many journeys you make.
Common Mistakes & contactless Tube payment Tips
Don’t mix devices. If you tap in with your Watch, you must tap out with your Watch.
Avoid card clash. Keep other cards or devices away from the reader so the wrong one doesn’t get charged.
Don’t wait until you arrive to set this up—do it at home before your trip. Power Reserve helps if your battery runs out, but don’t rely on it as your only plan.
FAQs about using your iphone on the london underground
Can you use an iPhone on the London Underground?
Yes. Just add your card to Apple Wallet, set it for Express Travel, and tap in/out at the yellow card readers like a contactless bank card.
Do I still need an Oyster card if I have Apple Pay?
No. Your iPhone (or Apple Watch) works exactly like an Oyster. You get the same fares and daily caps without needing to buy a separate card.
Does Apple Pay work if my phone battery dies?
Yes, if you’ve set up Express Mode. iPhones have a Power Reserve feature that keeps the NFC chip active for up to five hours after the low-battery warning. Just don’t manually power your phone off, or it won’t work.
Is there a fee for using Apple Pay on the Tube?
No extra fee from Transport for London. Check with your bank, though—some cards charge foreign transaction fees if your card is issued outside the UK.
Do I need to unlock my phone or use Face ID?
No. With Express Travel turned on, just hold your iPhone near the yellow reader and go. No need to wake or unlock your device.
