How much money should I bring to study abroad in London?

Hi, I'm studying abroad in London during the summer 2007, and I was curious about how much I should bring. I'll be there for 6 weeks, and I understand that things are much more expensive there--especially during the summer. I also understand the exchange rate. Has anyone studied there during the summer and have any suggestions for an amount I should bring? Thanks.

How much money should I bring to study abroad in London?
I spent 7 weeks in London last fall on study abroad, so I know what it is like to have to deal with all the expenses that come with traveling to London, especially for such a short period of time. The exchange rate is a bit hard to swallow, close to $2.00 for 1 pound. I changes frequently so I have no clue what it will be when you go there. It was between $1.80 and $1.85 for 1 pound when I was there.





How much money you want to bring largely depends upon what you want to do or where you want to go. In the summer I know there are many many free events in parks and free concerts. In London, many of the museums are free, so that is one thing you don't have to worry about. If you plan on traveling on a weekend to somewhere in Europe, you would need to budget for that too. I spent Thanksgiving weekend in Dublin and between plane fare, the hostel, shopping and food it was around $400.





You also need to consider things like food and transportation. A tube pass is a must. Oyster cards (an unlimited tube pass) for that amount of time will be around $250, but it is so helpful. You can travel on buses and the Tube as much as you want in the area you have selected. For food, one of the biggest ways to spend a lot of cash quick is to eat out frequently. There are many places to buy groceries, and though they are more expensive than in the states, you will not spend as much as you would eating out all the time.





It would be wise to check with your bank to see if they have a partnership with any British banks so you don't have to pay ATM fees. Bank of America is partnered with Barclay's so I didn't have to worry about paying $5 everytime I went to the ATM. ATM fees are one way to lose money quickly.





So, if you plan on doing some fun things, eating and doing a bit of shopping, I would plan on taking between $1,500 and $2,000. It's good to be mindful of how much you are spending, but also enjoy London, you are going to have a great time!!
Reply:My neice went there for one year and she took a loan of Rs. 10 lakhs, but that too does not suffice
Reply:It'd probably be better to bring traveler's checks or something. You never know what may come up and it would suck to be without money.