Choosing between London and Oslo for a backpacking adventure involves weighing distinct cultural experiences against significant cost differences. Both are vibrant cities, but their impact on a backpacker’s budget varies greatly.
Which City Offers a Lower Daily Budget for Backpackers?
London generally offers a lower daily budget for backpackers compared to Oslo. While both cities are considerably more expensive than the average European backpacker destination (where spending might be €35-55/day), London presents more opportunities for cost-saving.
- Estimated Daily Budget (Backpacker):
- London: €50-100+ (Accommodation: €30-60, Food: €10-25, Transport: €8-15)
- Oslo: €60-120+ (Accommodation: €35-70, Food: €15-35, Transport: €10-15)
- These figures are estimates for a budget-conscious traveler staying in hostel dorms, self-catering, and utilizing public transport.
How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?
Oslo’s accommodation is typically more expensive than London’s. For backpackers, hostel dorm beds are the primary option. While hostels in many European cities can range from €15-30/night, both London and Oslo significantly exceed this.
- London: Hostel dorm beds typically range from €30-60 per night, with prices varying by location and season.
- Oslo: Hostel dorm beds typically range from €35-70 per night, generally reflecting Oslo’s higher cost of living.
- Booking well in advance is crucial for better rates in both cities.
What Are the Food and Drink Expenses Like?
Oslo consistently has higher food and drink prices than London. Backpackers in both cities will find self-catering and supermarket purchases essential for managing costs.
- London: Supermarket essentials and budget-friendly grab-and-go meals can be found for €5-10. Casual eateries often cost €10-20 per meal.
- Oslo: Supermarket groceries are generally more expensive, with budget meals starting around €7-15. Casual dining can range from €15-30 per meal, which is notably higher than the €8-15 typical for local restaurants in many other European cities.
- Alcohol is particularly expensive in Oslo.
How Much Should I Budget for Local Transportation?
Public transport costs are comparable, but Oslo might be slightly more expensive for single journeys. Both cities offer efficient public transport systems. While transport in many European cities can be budgeted at €5-10/day, London and Oslo often exceed this.
- London: Using an Oyster card or contactless payment, daily caps for central zones typically range from €8-15.
- Oslo: A single public transport ticket is usually €3.5-5. A 24-hour pass can range from €10-15, offering good value for exploring.
Are There Ways to Save Money in London and Oslo?
Both cities offer opportunities for budget-conscious travel, though London has more free attractions.
- Free Activities: London boasts numerous world-class free museums (e.g., British Museum, National Gallery), extensive parks, and free walking tours. Oslo also offers beautiful parks (e.g., Frogner Park) and free walking tours, but fewer free indoor attractions.
- Self-Catering: Cooking meals at your hostel is a top money-saving strategy in both cities.
- Walking: Both cities are walkable, especially in central areas, saving transport costs.
- Seasonal Travel: Visiting during spring or fall typically offers lower accommodation and flight prices compared to the peak summer season.
- Utilize Resources: Tools like AllInMap can help backpackers find free amenities such as public toilets and water fountains in both cities, further reducing incidental costs.
