Oyster cards - how do they work, then?

[gordon]

Hello, London-based NTSC-UKers. I've been to the Oyster website and downloaded a pdf, but can't seem to make sense of it. Blame it on age and/or senility.

So, three questions:

1) Do you put money on the card before travelling?

2) Can I pick one up at any tube station, or do I have to get it online?

3) I read on one site that I could take my three kids (all under 11) for free, just using my card - i.e. I'd be the only one who pays the fare. Is this true, or do they have to get their own cards?

I fancy taking them to the Natural History Museum, but parking outside the congestion zone and taking the tube in to South Kensington...

[HaHaUK]

Its like a pay as you go phone. You put money on your card and swipe in and out at every station, and it takes the money off.

You can pick one up at the station, and I think they come preloaded with £3.

[gordon]

Cheers. That's 1) and 2) answered. Thanks.

And I just found the info about 3) here: http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tickets/faresandtickets/1063.aspx

Didn't know kids travelled for free anyway, but do now...

[saif]

Where do live mate?

There may be some public transport deals for museums and train tickets etc.

Oyster prices change during the day, if you use the tube outside peak hours, it is cheaper and price capping makes it cheaper too.

The oyster card itself is yours to keep BUT, you pay a *deposit* for it. If you want,get your £3 deposit back when finished!

[gordon]

Thanks for that - and sorry for the latye reply; I've been on holiday for 2 weeks. Anyway, I live in Oxfordshire, so wouldn't be coming often. I'm ordering a card online today...

Ta for all the help.

[funkydan]

There may be some public transport deals for museums and train tickets etc.

Pretty much all London Museums and Art Galleries have free entry.