We didn't crack this nut on our trip but learned that using electronic pay like Apple Pay or AmEx pay by phone is a challenge on Tube. Apple Pay uses a US debit card (not credit card) which isn't often recognized by Tube payment system. And AmEx not accepted. If you like the convenience of holding your phone up to the gate, set up a Visa for payment. Or just go buy an Oyster card from the machine -- contrary to what we read elsewhere, it's still possible to buy them there.
Posted by
Eastern Iowa, USA
8125 posts
The other thing missed besides tapping in and out, it that you must use not only the same payment card on the device, but the same device. So if you have 3 cards loaded, make sure the same card is up, and if you have the physical card, plus the phone, plus a watch, using the same device (tap in with the watch, tap out with the watch...tapping out with the phone is not the same, even though it may be the same payment method)
Posted by
San Francisco area
1891 posts
TFL seems to support Amex, Visa and Mastercard. I believe I used a contactless Amex about three years ago. Worked fine
If you set up Apple transit express you don’t even have to unlock your phone. Just tap and go like an Oyster card. I used it back in May this year. Worked fine and daily cap applied correctly too.
Posted by
MPLS, MN
402 posts
I was just in London last month and my Apple Pay (I use my watch) worked just fine. My default card is an AMEX and, as other posters noted, I turned on Express Transit. Works like a charm.
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
34003 posts
Apple Pay with (UK) AMEX the default certainly works
Posted by
Tampa, FL
634 posts
Periscope, thanks so much for the info on the transit express setting in Apple Pay! I was not aware of that. Will try it on the Rome metro this fall.
Posted by
Tampa, FL
634 posts
Thanks, periscope, will do!
Posted by
OP
SC, USA
11 posts
It was my understanding that Apple Cash used Apply Pay as the e-payment mechanism, same as visa or AmEx. Regardless, we were unable to use either for Tube. Even using the Express Transit feature. We did use same phone in/out.
Best advice I'd say is if using this from US in London, have a plan B at the gate so your party isn't on opposite sides.
Posted by
San Francisco area
1891 posts
Sorry to hear that you had difficulty using Apple Pay. As some of us indicated it can be easy to use. Perhaps troubleshoot the issue prior to your next trip. As a backup I always have a contactless credit card with me.