United Kingdom

Travel tips for United Kingdom: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards work almost everywhere. Recent traveler reports from 2025-2026 confirm the UK is overwhelmingly cashless, with contactless payments accepted universally—even by street musicians. Many businesses no longer accept cash at all, so visitors can easily rely entirely on cards or mobile pay.

Try the food

  • Fish and Chips: Crispy battered cod or haddock served alongside thick-cut deep-fried potatoes, often accompanied by mushy peas and tartar sauce.
  • Sunday Roast: A hearty traditional meal featuring roasted meat, crispy roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, and rich gravy.
  • Full English Breakfast: A substantial morning plate loaded with fried eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, and black pudding.

Essentials

Voltage
230V, 50Hz
Driving
Left side
SIM tip
Purchase a prepaid SIM card from major providers like EE, Vodafone, or Three at airport vending machines and high street shops, or install an eSIM before you travel for instant connectivity.

Etiquette

Always respect the queue by waiting your turn, and leave a 10 to 15 percent tip in restaurants unless a discretionary service charge has already been added to your bill.

Airports in United Kingdom