Oyster or Travel ???

Going to be in London 9th September - 15th September and was wondering which would be better to purchase - the Oyster Card or a regular 7 day Travel Card ?

What REALLY is the difference between the two ??

Suggestions ? Comments ?

Oyster cards are "smart" cards that you load up with credit and travel on them. it's much cheaper to pay by Oyster than cash if using the London Underground and buses. You pay an initial £3 fee for the card.

Travelcards are a ticket that lasts for a day/number of days. I think it would work out expensive to get a 7 day standard travelcard, but you can get 3-day off peak ones which might be better... I guess it depends on where you're planning on going. Personally i quite like walking round London rather than getting public transport but it's not always an option.

Take a look at TFL Website which should show you various options depending on your plans.

I have an Oyster - much easier than a travel card as unlike travel cards, it's reusable. It works on both buses and the underground and all you do is tap and go. Travel cards can wear out and are a pain in the arse when they do, and if it's lost you are out of luck where as with the Oyster - just register it online and your balance is safe if it gets lost.

I keep mine with my passport and have got much more use out of it than I would have a travel card.

Hi,
The choice of Oyster or Travelcard really depends upon what areas of London you intend to visit and at what times. The max daily amount that gets deducted from an Oyster card is the higher value if any of your travel takes place before 09:30 on a weekday whereas the Travelcard is a fixed amount no matter what time you use it ... conversely if you only travel a little in the day you only pay that amount on the Oyster card whereas the Travelcard amount is again fixed.
As Newbie mentions its worth a look at the Tfl web site.
Note that you do not need to order the cards in advance .. you can pick them up in London.
Ask if you need more info.