Cut the overwhelm. These are the 6 companies we’d use ourselves — no overthinking, just click and go.
Open your account before you land and get a UK sort code and account number in minutes. Send money at the real exchange rate with no hidden fees.
Add the multi-currency debit card and you’re ready to spend like a local on day one — rent, groceries, even your first pub pint. It's the perfect staring point for getting your cash sorted in the UK.
GET STARTED
Multi-currency account with smart budgeting and virtual cards.
OPEN ACCOUNT
Set up your SIM as soon as you land and avoid airport mark-ups or long queues. Lebara makes it easy to order online and pop the SIM straight into your phone with no contracts, credit checks, or hassles. Plans start small but give you plenty of data to get around London, and you can top up anytime in-app or at a corner shop.
Generous EU roaming on select bundles means you’ll stay connected when weekend trips to Paris or Amsterdam start calling — without worrying about surprise charges.
GET SIM
Expedia takes the stress out of booking your long-haul move by bundling flights, hotels, and extras into one smooth package. Their flexible date search helps you save big if your departure window is open, and loyalty rewards make repeat trips cheaper.
Beyond flights, you can add airport transfers or your first week’s accommodation in just a few clicks, giving you peace of mind that everything is covered before you board. If plans change, refundable fares and 24/7 support keep you protected.
SEARCH FLIGHTS
When you first land, you’ll want somewhere flexible while you flat-hunt. Booking.com has a huge choice of apartments, hotels, and short-term stays across London. Their refundable options let you lock something in early without stressing if dates shift.
Filters help you find places near transport, supermarkets, or your new office — so you can get your bearings while house-hunting. With everything managed through one simple app, checking in is as easy as tapping your phone.
BOOK STAY
Before you’re registered with the NHS, there’s a gap in your healthcare coverage — that’s where SafetyWing steps in. Their flexible monthly plans give you instant access to emergency medical cover, including hospital visits, prescriptions, and even dental emergencies.
You can pause or cancel anytime once you’re fully set up in the UK. Claims are handled online from anywhere, making it a perfect safety net for expats who don’t want to be stuck with massive bills if something goes wrong early on.
GET COVERED
A VPN is essential when you’re abroad — not just for security, but also for convenience. Surfshark encrypts your connection on public Wi-Fi (think airport lounges or cafés) while letting you keep access to your home country’s streaming, banking, and news services.
Unlimited devices on one plan mean you and your flatmates can all use it at once. Fast global servers make it reliable whether you’re catching up on Aussie TV or booking flights back home.
GET VPN
Want more options? See the full directory
Add your email below to access 60+ bite-sized lessons on Moving to London.
