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Everything you need to know about flying EasyJet

Traveling on a l ow-cost carrier probably isn't your favorite way to cruise the skies, but if you play your cards right, your experience doesn't have to be all that bad. After all, the allure of scoring that super-cheap fare may outweigh the negatives -- like being nickel-and-dimed for all the extras.

To help those of you who are considering purchasing a fare on low-cost carrier EasyJet (or are wondering if you should), TPG is here to tell you exactly what you need to know about flying the airline so you can have a pleasant travel experience. If you're interested in learning more about other low-cost carriers, check out our low-cost carrier comparison guide and our guide to flying Ryanair .

Check in beforehand or at the airport

EasyJet is one of the few low-cost carriers that won't charge you to check in or print your boarding pass at the airport. But if you aren't checking a bag, you can save time by checking in ahead of time and getting a mobile boarding pass. To check in online, go to the EasyJet website under "Manage Bookings" or use the free app using your booking reference. You'll be prompted to enter your surname and booking reference, then, follow the instructions to download or send the mobile boarding pass to your phone.

Web check-in is available between 30 days and two hours before the flight, giving you plenty of time to get your boarding pass printed or downloaded before you take off. Be prepared to enter advanced passenger information during check-in, which can include details like nationality, passport number, birth date and more. And remember, if you change your booking in any way (select new seats, change the date, name, add an infant or special assistance), you'll have to reprint your boarding pass or download it again.

It's actually okay if you spell your name wrong

If you notice you made a typo when entering your name, you can change it for free. However, if you want to give your ticket to another person entirely, you'll have to pay a fee of $34 to change it online if it's 60 days or more before travel. If it's 60 days or less before departure, the fee is $69. These changes (and any others) to your booking can be made in the Manage Booking section on the EasyJet app or webpage.

Take advantage of EasyJet's impressive app

In 2019, EasyJet's app launched an interesting function: voice flight bookings . You can speak your departure city, destination and travel dates into your mobile's microphone and voilà -- the app will pull up available flights.

This new feature is in addition to the app's Book with Instagram feature that's already available. Using it, you can upload a screenshot of a destination you'd like to visit that you've snapped from social media. If EasyJet flies there (or close by), it will find the location and show you flight options.

You don't need a stamp

Unlike low-cost carrier Ryanair, which mandates non-EU/EEA passengers must have their travel documents checked and stamped at the Ryanair Visa/Document Check Desk before certain flights, EasyJet has no such rule.

If you have your boarding pass and you're not checking a bag, the airline recommends you arrive 60 minutes before your scheduled departure and proceed directly to security. If you need to check a bag, it's best to arrive a minimum of 90 minutes ahead of your scheduled flight to most destinations; however, this may be different when flying to or from spots like Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Morocco and Serbia.

So, make sure to check the EasyJet website ahead of time when traveling between those countries. Also, note that bag drop closes 40 minutes before the departure time for most flights (60 minutes if departing from the aforementioned countries). And because many airports have self bag drops, be prepared to tag your bag yourself in some cases.

Know the carry-on luggage rules

All passengers can bring one bag on board with a maximum size of 22x18x10 inches including handles and wheels. There is no weight limit, but you must be able to lift your bag into the overhead bin.

Travelers who have purchased an extra-legroom/up front seat, FLEXI fare or hold an EasyJet Plus card can bring an added personal item to place under the seat with a maximum size of 18x14x8 inches.

In some cases, the airline staff may be lax to enforce this one-bag-only rule if you are flying with one bag and one small personal item, like a purse. In other cases, the staff at the gate may strongly enforce the rule. So, if you decide to push the limit and travel with an additional personal item that's not included in your fare, be prepared to put the smaller item inside your carry-on bag if asked, in order to avoid paying extra fees.

According to EasyJet, there is only room for 70 cabin bags in the airplanes' overhead lockers. All remaining cabin bags will be checked and can be collected from the baggage carousel on arrival. So, if you want to be certain your baggage travels with you in the cabin, pack a backpack that can fit under the seat or purchase speedy boarding to be one of the first passengers on the plane.

Know the checked luggage rules

Each traveler can bring three checked bags weighing under either 33 pounds, 51 pounds or 71 pounds. Checked baggage fees are dependent on route, flight and time of booking. If purchased online, prices range from $10 to $48 for bags weighing up to 33 pounds and from $21 - $52 for those weighing more than 33 pounds up to 51 pounds. An extra $17 for every 7 pounds of weight is added for bags weighing more than 51 pounds on up to 71 pounds.

Passengers can only pay to check the lower-priced 33-pound or less bag online. If you wait to pay for your bag at the airport, you'll be charged $55 at the bag-drop desk or $69 at the boarding gate for a bag up to 51 pounds. Additional weight can only be purchased online in increments of 7 pounds, either at initial booking or post-booking. If your bag weighs more than the amount you pre-purchased, expect to pay an extra $12 per pound above the pre-booked weight.

A final option is to take advantage of EasyJet's Hands Free option. This means that you check your carry-on bag at the bag drop, allowing you to navigate the airport and security checks efficiently without dragging a bag with you. The bags also reportedly arrive first off the baggage carousel. This service costs $10 per person, or $22 for a family or group of three to six passengers.

Here are TPG tips for checked baggage:

• Always weigh your bag before traveling.
• Pack a small travel scale to weigh it again before returning home.
• Book and pay for your checked luggage online to avoid extra charges for doing so at the airport.
• Ensure your checked baggage doesn't exceed the maximum size. The length + width + height must total under 108in.

Pay for your extras in advance

It's clear from reading the baggage rules that purchasing in advance will save you money. You should consider purchasing your seats and other extras in advance too, not only to save money but to avoid hassle and disappointment later on. Each aircraft has up-front seats, extra legroom seats and regular seats. Prices for seat selection range from $3- $11 for standard seats to $11 - $41 for front, extra legroom or overwing seats. FLEXI fares or EasyJet Plus have seat selection included.

If you choose not to pay extra for seats and are traveling with a group, be sure to check in as early as possible (remember, you can do so 30 days in advance) for the best chance of being seated together. Unfortunately, speedy boarding isn't available as a standalone purchase, but it's available to travelers with an EasyJet Plus card, FLEXI ticket or an up-front or extra-legroom seat.

Consider a FLEXI fare or EasyJet Plus

FLEXI fares allow changes to flight dates and times, plus a free 51-pound checked bag, dedicated bag drop, speedy boarding, Fast Track security at selected airports, a seat at the front of the airplane, an under-seat bag in addition to your cabin bag and a $10 (or currency equivalent) bistro voucher to spend onboard.

EasyJet Plus membership costs $275 per year and includes allocated seating every time you fly, dedicated bag-drop desks, Fast Track security at select airports, speedy boarding, an additional cabin bag and more. This option may be worth it if you fly EasyJet several times per year.

EasyJet partners with other airlines to fly you, well, everywhere

EasyJet flies to over 150 destinations across Europe and North Africa. They also partner with airlines like Emirates, Cathay Pacific, Norwegian, Singapore, Virgin and several others to help serve destinations the airline doesn't fly to itself, like spots in North America, the Caribbean, Asia and beyond. To book these flights go to Worldwide EasyJet .

Be prepared

If you haven't flown EasyJet in a while, you may be pleasantly surprised. Compared to some of the more bare-bones low-cost carriers, EasyJet can seem like a delight -- they even have a seatback pocket!

But don't get too excited. The seats don't recline and have a pitch of a mere 30 inches. All food and beverages are at an added cost, including water. You may have to line up for a while before boarding in order to board early enough to store your carry-on in the overhead bin.

To ensure you'll have a comfortable flight make sure to bring:

• Noise-canceling headphones
• Water (post-security)
• A neck pillow, if you plan to sleep
• A travel scarf or blanket, if you get cold

Read the fine print

This EasyJet cheat sheet will definitely help you prepare for your flight, but remember, the airline can change their policies at any time -- baggage limitations, check-in procedures or fees, etc. So be sure to read the conditions of your fare and ticket before purchasing. It's also a good idea to know and understand your rights as a flyer in case of delays, flight cancellations and strikes. Once you know the rules, your airport and in-flight experience will be much easier.

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Covid-19 information.

The spread of Covid-19 has made booking holidays and international travel difficult – and the ever-changing information around vaccinations, border closures and flight routes is confusing for even the most clued-in traveller.

We've pulled together a bevvy of information – on vaccine passports, red lists, green certificates, passenger locator forms and more – and relevant links in the articles below, to help shed a little light on where and when you might be able to travel to in the coming months.

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9 Tips & Tricks for Flying easyJet

By: Author Leslie Harvey

Posted on Published: September 20, 2022

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European low cost airline easyJet is one of the cheapest ways to get around Europe, especially for traveling distances that may take too long by rail. But is easyJet really easy? Or do the airline’s cheap fares just cause more logistical frustrations in the end?

Our family of four tested out the airline in our recent European travels and were pretty pleasantly surprised by what it had to offer. Of course, we did our research in advance so we improved our chances of avoiding potential snags. Here are all the essentials that other travelers considering easyJet should keep in mind – particularly traveling families from the USA and Canada who may not have encountered the airline until they travel on a European vacation.

(Trips With Tykes uses affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through links in this post. See our full disclosure policy linked in the menu at the bottom of this site.)

easyJet Basics

easyJet is currently the second largest discount airline flying in Europe, behind only ultra low cost carrier RyanAir. Founded in 1995, the airline is based in the United Kingdom with its largest hub at London’s Gatwick Airport. Its founders initially modeled easyJet after Southwest Airlines , looking to offer discounted point-to-point service. Of course, the airline has evolved quite a bit in the last several decades.

Related : Tips and Things to Do in London with Kids

easyJet only flies to destinations in Europe and North Africa, with a couple of additional destinations on the Mediterranean coast of the Middle East. Its depth of service in those regions is impressive, operating 927 routes in 34 countries and 153 airports in 2022. The airline offers a fair amount of service out of secondary airports in some major cities (like Paris Orly or London Luton). But it also serves the largest international airports of Europe as well, from Berlin Brandenburg (BER) to Paris’s Charles de Gaulle (CDG).

easyJet’s fleet has only Airbus aircraft at the current time – all A319s, A320s, and A321s.

Our Experience Flying easyJet

We flew easyJet for the first time this summer during our family’s two week summer 2022 European vacation. Our family of course flies Southwest a lot and also occasionally flies ultra low cost carriers in the United States (see my review of flying Frontier Airlines ). So we know the drill and the potential pitfalls of discount airlines. Even still, I researched the heck out of easyJet before I considered making the booking, taking special care to read all the fine print on the airline’s website at every step in the booking process.

We booked a flight from Paris’s Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Edinburgh, Scotland (EDI) about 2 months prior to our travel dates in August 2022. The only other airline flying this route non-stop is AirFrance. easyJet offered superior flight times for our travel plans in addition to being substantially cheaper.

We purchased a discounted standard fare, but chose the “Essentials” add on. This addition included a checked bag up to 23 kg (50 pounds) per person as well as a seat assignment. The seat assignment portion of this bundle amounted to an extra €10.99 per ticket and the checked bag was an extra €45.99 per ticket, but the price varies from flight to flight. The extras totaled €228 for our family of four over the cheapest seat offered on the flight. The entire booking cost €816 ($861 USD at the exchange rate of the time).

I checked in for our flight and printed boarding passes before we left the United States, as easyJet allows guests to check in up to 30 days in advance (more on that below). As our flight day approached, I received several emails from easyJet with details about our flight, including recommendations about when to arrive at CDG to check bags and how to prepare for airport security. At the time, a number of European airports were experiencing peak demand and garnering a lot of headlines for major meltdowns, so I was quite pleased with the level of communication from the airline.

We arrived at the airport right at 2.5 hours before our flight as easyJet’s emails suggested, which is when the bag check counters opened for our flight. We breezed through the bag check process in CDG’s Terminal 2B in minutes and then went through security quickly as well.

With all that extra time to spare, we stopped for some food and shopping before going through passport control to our final gate area. Passport control was also equally short. We enjoyed sitting in a spacious and mostly empty gate area before boarding.

The flight boarded in an orderly fashion. Seats, as you might imagine, are basic with pretty tight legroom but were more than adequate for the short haul flight we had between Paris and Edinburgh . Flight attendants were friendly. Everything and anything from drinks to snacks to cosmetics and duty-free liquor were of course offered for sale, but the sales pitch wasn’t particularly intrusive. We actually kind of enjoyed watching the spiel in action since there is no WiFi or other in-flight entertainment on board. Our flight departed and arrived on time.

All in all, it was about as uneventful and straightforward of a flight experience as I’ve had the last few years. Easy indeed.

9 Tips for Flying easyJet

Of course, not every flight is straightforward. A major contributor to our success was surely our preparation. If you are thinking of flying easyJet, I highly recommend that you prepare as well to maximize your chances of a similarly successful travel day. Here are all the essential tips we picked up in researching, preparing, and flying on easyJet.

1. Buy the right fare type

easyJet offers just two fare types, Standard and FLEXI, but the reality is that the offerings are a little more complex than just that. It’s vital to know what you are buying and bundling (and what you are not) so you purchase the amenities you need while not overpaying.

FLEXI fares are a more all inclusive option with some perks that business travelers will enjoy. They include a large carryon, a checked bag, a free Up Front Seat (with a discounted Extra Legroom option if desired), express bag drop, Fast Track Security, some flight and route changes allowed, and a few other perks in select airports and on select flights ( see the full list of benefits here ). For most family leisure travelers, this fare type is going to be more than is required.

The cheapest Standard fares are the other extreme. Standard fares come with absolutely nothing other than a space on the flight and the right to bring aboard a small under seat carry on bag like a purse, briefcase, or medium backpack (45 x 36 x 20cm).

Travelers can purchase additional amenities à la carte to add to a Standard fare purchase, or select from one of a few bundles the airline offers. The two most commonly offered bundles are:

• Standard Plus : includes a larger carry on bag (like a roll aboard), Speedy Boarding privilege, and an Up Front Seat
• Essentials : includes a standard seat assignment and a checked bag (23 kg/50 pounds)

Thankfully, the website booking process very clearly delineates what each of these bundles includes as well as all the à la carte purchases also available. For example, if you only want a checked bag, you can pay for three different sizes. As long as you go through the process deliberately having already thought about what you plan to take on a given trip, it’s hard to buy wrong.

This stands in stark contrast to me to several US airlines that have had very unclear basic economy fare rules in recent years that have tripped up many a traveler. While it seems like a lot of choices and a lot of clicks, I think most travelers will appreciate the transparency as I did.

2. Families should have a seating strategy

One of the major sticking points for families in air travel these days is sitting together. Again, easyJet impressed us with its transparent policy. Here’s what their website states as of September 2022:

If you haven’t yet bought seats for your family the best way to ensure everyone is seated together is to check in as early as possible. Check in opens 30 days before departure and we recommend you check in as early and possible and no later than 7 days before your flight. Whilst our seating system will always try to seat families together, seats are allocated on a first come first served basis so the earlier you check in the more likely you are to be seated together.  If you leave it to the last minute it’s possible that there may not be enough seats left for us to seat your family next to each other. We’ll still make sure each child under 12 is seated close to an adult on your booking. However we may only be able to arrange this at the airport or on board, which can cause delays for you and other passengers, and not everyone may be seated together. From easyJet’s Flying with Children and Infants

So, if you absolutely want to ensure that you sit together, you need to purchase seats at the time of booking. At just about €10 per seat on most flights, this isn’t particularly prohibitive and I’d recommend it for families with very young kids, especially when traveling last minute or during a peak holiday period.

If you’d prefer to chance it and go for the cheapest fare, it’s comforting to know that easyJet makes it a priority to seat families together anyway. Just be certain to check in right at the 30 day mark to improve your chances to getting seats together.

3. Measure personal items and carryons closely

Where so many travelers go awry with low cost airlines is with bags. easyJet has very strict size and weight limits for every kind of bag a passenger might bring on board.

Some of the luggage you may be used to bringing may not fall within the required dimensions. That’s why it’s essential to measure your bags before you book a flight on easyJet. We actually ended up purchasing backpacks to use as carryons for our entire European trip with easyJet’s dimensions in mind and really ended up loving them (see the backpacks here ).

Here are the relevant bag sizes to watch out for:

• Small cabin bag (personal item): 45 x 36 x 20 cm (15 kg max)
• Larger cabin bag (carry on): 56 x 45 x 25 cm (15 kg max)
• Hold bag (checked bag): 23 kg (a smaller 15kg checked bag is offered for slightly less; passengers can purchase up to 32 kg of weight for a single bag in additional 3 kg increments; passengers traveling on the same itinerary can pool the total weight of their bags together)

I didn’t know what to expect on our travel day – would easyJet’s gate agents force every customer to place bags in the bag sizer to show size compliance? Although there were sizers at the bag check counters and at the gate, I didn’t see any passenger asked to use them. That said, it seemed like passengers all had very reasonably sized carry ons and small cabin bags. Perhaps European travelers do their research and don’t push the limits?

Whatever the reason, I was pleased to find out that there wasn’t a lot of fuss about bag sizes on our travel day. But I’m also glad we brought size-compliant bags and didn’t have to personally worry about being pulled aside. I’d recommend all easyJet travelers do the same.

4. Check in up to 30 days in advance

easyJet allows travelers to check in a full 30 days before a flight which is pretty usual in the airline world. Why might you want to check in early?

As I mentioned earlier, checking in early is essential for families not paying for seat assignments to improve their chances of sitting together. But even solo travelers or adults-only travel groups may want to check in early as well to improve their chances to getting better seats when you have not paid for a seat assignment.

Why else should you consider checking in long before your travel day? In my family’s case, we checked in before we left the USA for a flight that was 10 days later because it enabled us to print our boarding passes at home. While we could have used the app or gotten a printout for free at the airport, I like having the certainly of paper, especially when traveling internationally where I might not be able to count on data service or WiFi.

Finally, you may want to check in early for other reasons. This summer during the height of the travel crunch, for example, easyJet allowed passengers who had checked in to drop their bags the night before a flight to avoid long morning bag check lines. easyJet also requires travelers to check in no later than 2 hours before a flight, so checking in early avoids the risk of you might miss this window on day of travel.

5. Arrive early, but not too early for bag check

Some European airports have really been disastrous logistical messes the last few years, with long bag check and security lines. Travelers are increasingly feeling the need to arrive earlier and earlier for their flights so as not to miss them.

We really appreciated how easyJet manages this issue, along with the airline’s clear communication about travel day timing. On its website, easyJet publishes what time its bag check counters open before a given flight and sends email reminders to passengers with this information several times before a travel day. For most flights and airports, bag check open 2 hours before departure but for a few larger airports, they open 2.5-3 hours in advance.

Even if you are at the airport, you can’t queue and check your bags before that time, so there’s no need to arrive earlier. And because travelers on later flights can’t get in line to check their bags yet, the lines aren’t clogged with passengers from multiple flights at a given time. It turned out to be remarkably efficient and reliable for us at CDG.

The bottom line is that you can actually trust the recommended EasyJet bag check time guidelines which is a rarity in air travel these days.

6. To save the most money with easyJet, book well in advance

As with a lot of low cost carriers, there are some screaming deals to be had flying easyJet. But if you want to find these low prices, you need to be prepared to book well in advance (as well as to fly at off-peak times).

We monitored the flights we ultimately booked for a few months as we firmed up our overall travel schedule, and I saw the prices go up quite a bit from 4 or 5 months in advance to about 2 months before when we booked. A lot of that is likely due to the fact that we were flying during peak summer travel season in Europe, but it’s an important lesson. If you can book early, it will likely save you some real money.

How far in advance can you book? easyJet releases its schedules about 7-9 months in advance, similar to how Southwest does things.

7. But… be prepared for flight time changes and cancellations

While booking early with easyJet is the best way to snag a deal, it does come with some risk. Like all airlines these days, easyJet has been making a lot of schedule changes and has had labor and airport-related troubles this year. So the flight you book may not be a flight easyJet ultimately flies many months down the road.

I’ve heard several stories from travelers this summer who have lost a whole day of their vacation due to to major easyJet schedule changes and route discontinuations. The silver lining is that air travel consumer protections in Europe are more robust than they are in the United States. So easyJet is usually obligated to offer a refund, a voucher, or an alternate flight. In some cases when flight cancellations are last minute, compensation may be due. So if your flight is cancelled, do your research to know what you are entitled to.

8. BYO everything

Passengers planning to fly easyJet should know that it truly operates as a low cost carrier. So that means the airline will charge you for anything and everything – even water. If you want to eat or drink or just to be entertained, you are on your own.

For that reason I highly recommend that travelers – particularly travelers with kids – bring plenty of food for an easyJet flight. Additionally, bring an empty water bottle to the airport and fill it up before boarding (because Europe has liquid restrictions at airport security checkpoints too). Download shows and games to your personal devices and smartphones before leaving for the airport and pack headphones!

9. Frequent flyers should consider easyJet Plus

While a lot of travelers may only have occasion to fly easyJet infrequently like our family, if you are planning a lot of travel aboard easyJet, it makes sense to consider easyJet Plus .

easyJet Plus is essentially elite status that you can pre-pay for. Pay a fee of £215, an it unlocks a number of extras for no additional fee – a seat assignment, a checked bag, a larger cabin bag, Fast Track security, Speedy boarding, etc. A spouse can also join for £185 additional, and kid ages 2+ are £135 each.

If you plan an extended trip around Europe and plan to fly easyJet multiple times in a limited time window, this membership could well pay for itself in saved bag and seat fees as well as in reduced stress on travel days. Of course, do the math carefully because travelers only taking a couple of flights probably should purchase needed amenities à la carte.

Final Thoughts

Overall, for the prepared and fastidious traveler, easyJet is a really great option for travel around Europe. The airline of course has some of the usual caveats that come with flying any low cost carriers, but we found it to be a more user-friendly option than the cheapest airlines in the United States (like Spirit). We’d gladly fly it again on future Europe trips.

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What to Know Before Flying EasyJet

Here's everything you need to know before you fly, plus passenger reviews.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Since it was founded in 1995, EasyJet has become one of Europe's most popular low-cost airlines. And it's easy to see why — the airline offers flights to over 100 destinations in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East for super-low prices. (You can easily score round-trip tickets between incredible destinations like London, Paris, Barcelona, and more for around $100).

Of course, as is the case with any budget airline, those affordable base fares can turn out to be a bit more expensive than they appear once you begin adding extras like baggage and seat selection.

Whether you're planning a multi-city tour of Europe or taking a quick weekend trip, there are a few things you'll need to know before booking flights with EasyJet to decide if this is the best airline for your next trip.

Fare Classes

EasyJet offers four different fare classes between the most minimal Standard Fare and the more inclusive Flexi. Here's what each one comes with:

• Standard: Underseat cabin bag
• Standard Plus: Underseat cabin bag, Up Front Seat, overhead cabin bag, Speedy Boarding, Dedicated Bag Dop
• Essentials: Underseat cabin bag, standard seat, 23-kilogram checked bag
• Flexi:  Underseat cabin bag, overhead cabin bag, Speedy Boarding, Dedicated Bag Drop, free route changes, bistro voucher, fee flight changes, 23-kilogram checked bag Up Front Seat, Airport Lounge Access (in available airports)

In addition to these fares, you will also have the option to purchase the Extra Legroom or Up Front Seat add-on when given the option to select your seat. This upgrade comes with the additional benefits of Speedy Boarding, Dedicated Bag Drop, and an allowance of two carry-on bags.

Flight Change and Cancellation Policies

EasyJet's flight change and cancellation policies can be confusing, but generally, it's less expensive to make any adjustments online so always try to do it yourself first before calling customer service. If you cancel your flight within 24 hours of booking, you will receive a full refund (minus the cancellation fee), but canceling after that will not grant you a refund. Here are the fees for various changes you may need to make to your booking. Prices have been converted from the Pound sterling to U.S. dollars.

• Cancellations (within 24 hours of booking): $60 online and $68 with customer service
• Name Change:  $68 online and $74 with customer service
• Flight changes (60 days before departure): $31 online and $37 with customer service
• Flight changes (within 60 days before departure): $60 online and $66 with customer Service

For passengers who miss their flight, EasyJet also charges a "rescue fee" of $136 to transfer your ticket to the next available flight, but only if you arrive at the airport within two hours after your scheduled departure time.

Baggage Policies and Fees

Quick British English lesson: EasyJet's website refers to "cabin" and "hold" luggage — these are your carry-on and checked luggage, respectively. Everyone can bring one small cabin bag (a.k.a. a personal item ) that has to fit under the seat in front of you — it must be 45 x 36 x 20 centimeters or smaller (roughly 17 x 14 x 7 inches). If you book an Up Front or Extra Legroom seat, you can bring a large cabin bag (carry-on) on board that has to fit in the overhead bin — it must be 56 x 45 x 25 centimeters or smaller (roughly 22 x 17 x 9 inches). EasyJet Plus cardholders and Flexi ticket holders can also bring a personal item and carry-on bag.

For hold (or checked) luggage, the fees range from $10 to $70, depending on weight and whether you add them online or at the airport. Checked luggage cannot weigh more than 32 kilograms (around 70 pounds) or be larger than 275 centimeters (about 108 inches, length plus width plus height).

You'll want to carefully look over the baggage policy online before booking so you can get an idea of exactly what your luggage costs will be. Reflecting on the baggage fees, one Tripadvisor reviewer said , "When summing up all the costs, the price can be equivalent or more expensive than proper full-service airlines."

Boarding Order

Those who request special assistance in advance board the plane first, followed by Speedy Boarding passengers, families with children under five, and then everyone else. Tripadvisor reviews about Speedy Boarding were conflicting — some passengers found the service to be a great help, while others said it was inefficient and confusing.

Seats and Legroom

There are three types of seats: Standard, Up Front, and Extra Legroom. The minimum seat pitch of a standard seat is 29 inches, and the minimum width is 17 inches, but specifics will vary by aircraft. In a Yelp review , one passenger said, "Seat pitch was very small, which is par for the course for many low-cost airlines. However, as I am tall, it was horrible for me, with next to no comfortable legroom, and my knees were touching the seat in front. Even worse, the seat did not recline whatsoever. It was in one fixed position."

In another Tripadvisor review , one user pointed out that the Up Front seating system may cause crowding, saying, "Those who choose Up Front seats are entitled to take overhead cases and are entitled to Speedy Boarding. This meant the front of the plane was extremely busy whilst the rest of the plane was emptier."

Amenities and Entertainment

Food and beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) are available for purchase on EasyJet flights. On some routes, passengers can access digital content, such as games, flight maps, and onboard food and drink menus, through their phone, tablet, or laptop. To use the service, you will need to connect to EasyJet's onboard Wi-Fi — which kicks in at 10,000 feet — by scanning the QR code on the back of the seat rest. You won't be able to access the Internet or check your e-mails, however, because it is a closed-loop Wi-Fi system.

EasyJet Plus

EasyJet offers an annual membership, called EasyJet Plus , that's ideal for frequent fliers. For $266 per year, membership perks include seat selection, a dedicated bag drop desk, Fast Track Security, Speedy Boarding, an included carry-on, and more. You will also have the option to take an earlier flight on the same day as your scheduled departure, with no extra fee, and will receive a 10 percent discount on any purchases you make onboard.

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EasyJet Flight Review – Travel Day To Nice, France

We decided to escape the snow and wind of the UK in March and head to the springtime sun and glamour of Nice on the Côte d’Azur. However, in order to get there, we have it partake in the distinctly unglamorous necessity of 21st-century air travel.

We chose to fly with the budget airline Easyjet for a couple of reasons, the price and it is the only airline which flies to Nice, France from our nearest airport

Firstly, let us admit it, we don’t fly light, even for 4 days. The idea of travelling with hand luggage only is a concept which terrifies us, so we did add one case with a decent weight allowance of 23kg.

Check-In Bristol Airport

No queues at the EasyJet self service check-in

Bristol is one of EasyJet’s hub airports so there is a relatively big check-in area and plenty of automated bag drop machines. You simply scan your boarding card and a luggage tag is printed. You attach it to the case yourself and then put your bag on the luggage belt, if done correctly and within weight, off it goes (fingers crossed)!

The process did seem quicker than the old queuing method. We always seem to get stuck behind an extended family of 10 who have packed two shotguns and nearly everything on the restricted list.

Exit through the duty-free at Bristol Airport

Security was quick and quite well managed with plenty of lanes open and we were soon running the gauntlet of the duty-free exit route into the departure lounge. Like snipers, the sales assistants are in position, waiting to pounce and spray you with something flowery.

The outdoor terrace at Bristol Airport

For a smaller airport, the facilities at Bristol Airport are quite good. The long stay car park is within walking distance of the terminal and not that expensive when compared to other airports. The food offerings are OK with a number to choose from, there is also a little outside terrace to get some fresh air and as it is no-smoking, it isn’t overrun with the smokers and a mound of cigarette butts.

There is now an on-site hotel, a Hampton Inn which is reasonably priced if you want to stay the night before.

Oh No! It’s the dreaded bus transfer

Departure time – the flight was on time but the procedure is still uncomfortable. As the turn around time for the budget airlines is so short the gate is called when the plane isn’t ready and everyone is forced to wait in a small uncomfortable area. Also, as the plane was parked away from the terminal, we had to endure the dreaded bus transfer. If you had priority boarding you get the privilege of waiting on the bus even longer.

Boarding the plane did take quite a long time and was uncomfortable. It is a bit annoying as this process is repeated by the staff day in, day out but it always feels like it’s the first time they’ve ever done it.

On Board The EasyJet Airbus A319

Onboard the full EasyJet A319 flight

The standard seats on the Easyjet Airbus A319 aren’t the biggest, your knees will probably be touching the seat in front of you and this will feel worse if you’re made to put a bag under the seat. Luckily, the flight time was under 2 hours so it wasn’t too uncomfortable.

The staff onboard were quite helpful and friendly and the in-flight service was quick, wherever you were sitting (something BA could learn from).

Although we do sound critical of the flight, after all, EasyJet is a budget airline and do offer some really cheap deals. We feel that just a couple of minor changes involving boarding could make the experience much better and less stressful. Also, compared to the falling standards of British Airways short haul, the EasyJet service is now as good as, if not better.

Arrival In Nice, France

The clouds have cleared as we come into land in Nice

The flight arrived on time and we were greeted to a sunny French Riviera afternoon. The plane was also parked at the terminal so no dreaded bus transfer to disembark.

The blue sea and tree lined promenade of Nice on the French Riviera, the perfect reason to travel.

What are your experiences of EasyJet or what other budget airlines would you recommend? We will be travelling across North America shortly so any information about US-based airlines would be appreciated.

EasyJet Flight Review, Travel Day To Nice, France – Pin For Later

Mr and Mrs W

Marcus and Mellissa, a married couple who love travel and adventure but now require a bit more luxury during their trips. Blogging and vlogging around the world, sharing hints, tips and stories. Enjoying the ride, having a laugh and even the odd argument.

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Easyjet gets a hard knock, but as soon as you go on Ryanair you realise how good you had it. As you say though, your knees will always be bumping the seat in front of you. I’m not a giant but I still feel like a prune in those planes.

Also as mentioned, we have found the EasyJet service to be better than British Airways short haul. Luckily, we don’t really use Ryanair.

Danila Caputo

We have a lot of Easyjet flights from our local airport and then while the prices are good, we still feel uneasy about traveling only with the hand luggage. With the new policies if you don’t get early at your gate you risk they take away also the hand luggage if you aren’t in the first… I think 90 people. They also don’t take responsibility in case your camera equipment is stolen/breaks. If I put it in my hand luggage there’s a reason, right? And yet if you want it up with you, you need to pay extra or be one of the lucky 90s. You have to pay extra to be able to bring your hand luggage with you, extra to be able to take your flight next to your husband, maybe add some insurance as well… and as you mentioned, the seats are tight so if you are tall, you will definitely be uncomfortable. At this point we’re gladly spending a bit more right from the start, saving ourselves the hassle!

Luckily, we didn’t have our hand luggage removed. Mine is full of camera stuff too and their batteries which are not allowed in the hold due to the fire risk, so don’t know what they could do. Maybe, they would make you take the batteries out?

I have only flown Air Arabia as the low cost international airline. Yes, they come with lot of constraints but then you are not paying for any fringes. My only constraint is that they make you pay for every kilogram you carry with you. Sometimes it is cheaper to buy new clothes at the destination than to port the old ones. Two hours is not too bad for a budget airline whereas you say – seats are not the widest.

Luckily, most low-cost flights from the UK are under 2 hours. What is annoying is the procedure at the airport, low -cost and premium. In 2018 there still seem to be a lot of waiting around and unnecessary queuing.

I’m definitely considering booking flights from Bristol, this summer. I haven’t really considered a trip before but your Nice photo is beautiful and sometimes you just need a weekend in the sunshine!

We loved Nice (was very reasonable off-season). The actual flight time was 1 hour 40 mins. They always build in a delay time.

Ha, ha… I can’t help imagining the “extended family of 10 who has packed two shotguns and nearly everything on the restricted list”! Glad you got to avoid that due to the efficient system at Bristol Airport. I guess arriving in sunny Nice makes up for spending 2 hours on an uncomfortable EasyJet seat. As you say, it is a budget airline after all.

Yes, the destination more than made up for the inconvenience of the travel. Luckily no shotguns on our return flight only skiing equipment.

Medha Verma

I was just going to say that EasyJet is a budget airline and you cannot really expect a lot, when I read about your leg space issue. Then I saw that you mentioned it yourself, that when you pay the amount of money that you do for a flight, you need to keep your expectations low as well. Having said that, it seems they have good service which kind of makes up for the lack of certain facilities, doesn’t it?

Yes, although it is a budget airline the staff were very friendly and helpful which does help.

Meg Jerrard

Yes, I’ve found Easyjet to be a good budget airline, though you do get what you pay for. It was with Easyjet that I unpacked 5 kilos worth of clothes from my bag and wore them onto the plane because they were going to charge me some ridiculous amount of money in extra baggage, so something to keep in mind not to go over your limits. But I’m sure the French Riviera, was a welcome retreat!!

You should buy yourself one of those coats which have hundreds of pockets to avoid any excess luggage charges. When will they start weighing you as a person? I bet Ryanair have a trial already!

Carol Colborn

We have a pretty good experience with EasyJet. We will always favor budget fares and make do with those little inconveniences.

They are cheap but so many of the inconveniences can be sorted out quite easily, a lot depends on the staff on duty at the gate.

Haven’t tired EasyJet in my flights but could be nice since they offer a good deal in around Europe. When it comes to traveling on a budget, I choose Air Asia, just like EasyJet, they have a small leg space tho no problem for me because I’m small! but I could tell from other passengers that they seem uncomfortable. If it’s a 1-2 hour flight I could handle! The blue waters in Nice France is calling!

I think I would struggle with the lack of space when the flight is over 2 hours, especially if the plane is too warm.

Easyjet seems to be a good budget airline. But I guess the hardships faced is a part of the cheap deal. I wouldn’t mind it if they are punctual.

They are not too bad with the timekeeping. Like lots of airlines, they seem to build delays into their schedule.

we are kinda opposite of you. we travel very light. we usually fly with Rayan Air. To be honest I prefer Easy Jet. The budget airlines work for us when we travel for a weekend gateway.

Lot’s of people say they are much better than Ryanair, at least they don’t openly show contempt to their customers like Ryanair seem to do.

Sophia Grace

This Travel Day post is really nice that you shared your experience with Easyjet Flight. I wasn’t try Easyjet flight but your experience looks really good & now I will surely do go with Easyjet flight.

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30+ France Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go

Last Updated: July 6, 2023

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With a committed legion of croissant-loving, champagne-chugging Francophiles spread across the globe, France may well be one of the most romanticized countries in Europe.

But unfortunately for many first time visitors, with high expectations comes inevitable disappointment, especially when they realize that the streets do not , in fact, smell permanently of baguettes.

But France is an amazing country to visit… so long as you come prepared.

Packed to the brim with cultural quirks and frustrating traps, France isn’t a destination that you can just show up and blindly enjoy. But that’s exactly what makes a visit here so rewarding… and addictive.

After many, many visits over the past decade and a half, I’ve learned the hard way what not to do in France, and how to navigate the country in a way that keeps you crawling back for more.

So, read on for a list of my best France travel tips for first-timers, with all the French must-knows I wish I knew before my first visit, almost 15 years ago.

Save this list of France Travel Tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Remember: France is more than just Paris!

With its status as the EU’s largest country, France is so packed with sights, it’s a miracle that Paris has managed to hog the limelight this long.

Metropolitan France is made up of thirteen regions and is often referred to as l’Hexagone, or the Hexagon thanks to its hexagonal shape. And what a ridiculously attractive hexagon it is.

I worked for a French travel company one summer which brought me to a ton of destinations I never would’ve otherwise thought to visit. And I’m obsessed. Paris is truly just scraping the surface, so if time allows, be sure to add other French destinations to your itinerary.

Here are a few of my personal favourites:

• Alsace: Fairytale storybook villages come to life, famous for its wineries and Christmas markets.
• The French Riviera: A glitzy coastline that gets 300+ days of sunshine each year, dotted with luxurious resorts, plus easy access to Monaco .
• Lyon: An amazing city with an epic gastronomy scene, plenty of cool sights and surprises (like how it was the birthplace of cinema!)
• Normandy: Dramatic landscapes along the The Alabaster Coast, and lots of cool unique sights like Mont St Michel. Capital is Rouen, a gorgeous medieval city.

You can see my full list of places to visit in France (besides Paris) for more inspo.

NOTE: One really great way to research new French destinations is by using Google Translate and searching in French. By doing this, you’ll find a lot more content that is geared towards domestic travellers, who tend to explore more than just the most famous spots known internationally.

2. Don’t assume all French people are rude

Now, let’s address the éléphant in the room. You’ve probably heard it before – one of the most jarring culture shocks for first timers visiting France is that locals can be… a little mean.

And I get where that impression comes from. First off, it’s important to note that unhinged enthusiasm and over-friendliness is simply not baked into French culture the same way it is in many parts of North America, so they’re just generally more demure.

More importantly though, French people like things done their way… and unlike other countries in Europe that may be more willing to bend and cater to tourist crowds, French locals are more steadfast in maintaining their norms, often to the embarrassment and woe of clueless visitors.

Oftentimes, it feels to me like locals in touristy areas have pre-conceived notions about ‘ignorant tourists’ and so it’s assumed you are one of the bad eggs, unless you prove otherwise.

This is why learning basic French phrases and etiquette is SO crucial. Once you can show you’re putting in the work, you win instant respect points in the eyes of tourist-wary locals, and you’ll certainly have a much better time.

On that note…

3. Learn some basic French before your trip

Unlike in many other European tourist hubs where English is welcomed and spoken widely, France is a country where learning the local language can go a long, long way.

If there ever was a cheat code to unlocking French ‘friendliness’, it’d be speaking the language.

While many French locals (especially in big cities) speak more English than they let on, they often refrain from speaking it unless absolutely necessary, maintaining the (fair) belief that when in France, you should be speaking French.

So, here are some key French phrases you should 100% commit to memory, along with rough pronunciation guides:

• Hello: Bonjour (bon-zhoor)
• Good evening: Bonsoir (bon-swahr) -> [ say this after 6pm-ish, people kind of get snobby if you say “bonjour” in the evening]
• Thank you: Merci (mer-see)
• Please: S’il vous plaît (see voo play)
• Can I get the bill please?: L’addition, s’il vous plaît (lah-diss-yon, see voo play)
• Do you speak English?: Parlez-vous anglais? (par-lay voo ong-lay)
• Excuse me (like, sorry/when you’re trying to move past someone) : Pardon (pahr-dawn)
• Excuse me (like, when you’re trying to get someone’s attention): Excusez-moi (ex-kews-ay-mwah)
• Bye: Au revoir (oh rev-war)

4. Familiarize yourself with basic French etiquette

Similarly, just as locals lack patience for those who don’t speak their language, they lack even more patience for those who aren’t familiar with French “ Us et coutumes ” (AKA habits and customs).

And, fair enough, there are a lot of cultural norms in France that (when breached) can come across as incredibly rude.

So, if you’d like to avoid being “yet another rude tourist”, here are some France etiquette tips to keep in mind:

Say “bonjour” (before 6pm) or “bonsoir” (after 6pm) when entering a shop: Failure to greet people when entering a shop is considered the peak of rudeness in France, so don’t forget!

When greeting friends, go for “La Bise”: In France, the standard informal greeting among “friends” is La Bise, which is basically an air kiss on each cheek while making a slight kissing sound. Hugging is actually considered more intimate than this!

When in doubt, go with “vous” : In French, there’s a difference between a formal you (vous) and informal you (tu). The latter should only be used among friends, so when addressing strangers, always go with the “vous” form!

Avoid speaking too loudly in public: When in doubt, try to match the overall volume of your surroundings. North Americans in particular have a reputation for being loud.

Moving past people? Say “Pardon”: I know a lot of tourists default to “excusez-moi”, which would be understood but is more meant as “excuse me” in the context of getting someone’s attention, so say “par-DON” when moving past people instead.

Avoid joking about clichés and stereotypes: French humour isn’t very self-deprecating, so avoid making jokes about common clichés and stereotypes, and certainly don’t go quoting infamous lines that start with “Voulez-vous coucher avec…”

5. Prepare for plenty of jaywalking and cutting in line

Based on the cultural nuances above, it may be easy to assume that French culture is simply more formal than most.

There are two main exceptions however: jay walking, and cutting in line.

The concept of line-ups (or queuing, as the Brits like to say) is non-existent in France, so don’t be surprised if a local comes shoving past you on public transport or jumps ahead of you at the boulangerie while you wait for your 7th pastry of the day.

And as for jaywalking, while technically forbidden if you’re within 50m of a crosswalk, most people do it anyway.

Once upon a time I was travelling with a French friend who practically acted as if traffic lights were invisible. When I asked him why, he simply told me “I am French. I do not wait!”

That just about sums it up.

6. Keep in mind the depth of cultural diversity within France

While many France travel guides (this one included!) make reference to “French people” or “the French way of doing things”, it’s important to note that France itself is home to a lot of regional diversity.

Brittany for instance is very different to the Basque Country which is very different to Alsace which is very different to Paris.

There are of course broad similarities (which this article covers), but when it comes to researching more specific things like what to eat, what wine to drink, etc. it may be worthwhile to research for the specific destinations you’re visiting.

7. Prepare yourself for strikes

Another important France travel tip I have for you is to simply get used to ‘going with the flow’, because trust me: France is a country where even the best laid plans can go awry with just a single word: ‘grève’ (AKA strike).

The right to strike is considered by many to be Frencher than even the Eiffel Tower itself, and odds are, a strike may impact your trip in one way or another.

For instance, a sudden train strike on my first trip to France meant we had to take a 12-hour bus ride instead of the much quicker train from Nice to Paris. It also took me literally FOUR tries over many years to visit the Arc de Triomphe, because of random strikes and closures every time I attempted to go.

And while there are some sites like this one that announce strikes, many of them are planned with little notice, so there’s not much you can do as an international visitor besides mentally preparing yourself for the possibility.

Overall, just don’t be too upset if your plans get thrown in a raging trash fire… and try your best to make the most of the situation in any case (like this couple who chose to calmly sip wine next to said trash fire).

8. And expect random closures

Related to the point above, another important France travel tip is to prepare yourself for unexpected closures.

From personal experience, I can confirm that even if Google Maps says a shop, restaurant, or attraction is open, there’s always a chance that it might be closed when you arrive. So, it’s important to stay flexible and have a plan B ready to go.

And if you’re planning on visiting during peak vacation periods like August, be prepared for even more closures since many locals will be out of town.

8. Consider planning your trip for the shoulder or off-season 

I know a lot of people dream about visiting France in the summer, but with the higher prices and the heat, I’d actually recommend shoulder/off season instead.

Especially for big cities like Paris, winter is a much quieter (and perfectly pleasant) time to visit… plus Paris at Christmas time is every bit as magical as you’d imagine.

NOTE: If you’re looking to score some sweet deals while heading to France, you should know that sales (Les Soldes) are no joke over there. They’re heavily regulated and only happen twice a year – once in June and once in January. Learn more here.

9. Go to Alsace for Christmas markets!

While Christmas in Paris is undoubtedly magical, the Alsace region of France has some of the most absurdly amazing Christmas markets in Europe.

Go to them.

I’ve already written out a full list of the best Christmas markets in Alsace, but here are some of my guides to specific markets so you can read more:

• Strasbourg Christmas Market Guide
• Colmar Christmas Market Guide
• Obernai Christmas Market Guide

This is one of the most magical times to visit France, and if you plan your visit for earlier in the season (late November, rather than close to Christmas), you’ll usually be able to avoid the bulk of the crowds.

Here are my top must-knows for visiting Christmas markets in Europe if you want to learn more.

10. Expect at least some scaffolding/restoration work

The lengthy history of France is one of its most enticing selling points.

But, it has to be said, for every drool-worthy building that boasts centuries of tales, there’s a scaffolding company ready to make a fortune.

So, just to get your expectations in check, expect scaffolding. And lots of it. Old, beautiful buildings require maintenance, and you’ll probably encounter the byproduct of said maintenance during your trip.

11. Be wary of petty theft and scams when you visit France

For first-time visitors, another important France must-know is that there are many professional pickpocketers and scammers frequenting tourist hubs.

Your best defence against them? Learning all their tricks beforehand.

You can learn the most common pickpocket techniques and how to avoid them in my post about how to avoid pickpockets in Europe , but overall, the key is to always be vigilant and keep an eye on your belongings.

Pickpockets thrive on distraction, and tend to operate in high-traffic areas that have a lot of people/tourists (e.g. train stations), so be especially careful to not let anyone get too close.

Here are some other ground rules to keep in mind for avoiding scams in France:

• Do not take free stuff: Often scammers will offer you a rose or a friendship bracelet for “free” then demand money. In more extreme cases, they may even forcibly tie a friendship bracelet on you then demand payment, so be cautious in busy touristy areas.
• Don’t sign any petitions: In touristy areas, there is often a scam (usually run by groups of young women) where they ask you to sign a petition and then either demand a donation from you, or distract you as someone else picks your pockets. Be sure to ignore and avoid!
• Do not blindly accept help from strangers: Generally, French locals will not approach & help you unless you ask for it. In cases of overly helpful strangers that come to YOU, often this is a scam, i.e. offering to help you buy a Metro ticket, then buying you the wrong one (e.g. a child’s ticket) while pocketing the profit.

12. Prioritize public transport for city to city travel

Now, onto France transport tips!

First off, if you are mainly visiting French cities during your trip, renting a car will likely not be necessary.

The French train system is robust and covers over 3000 stations across the country. For those on a budget, there are also bus companies like Flixbus, Eurolines and BlaBlaBus that offer affordable connections, and for quicker commutes, there are also 30+ airports in France, many of which are well served by budget airlines like Ryanair and easyJet.

So, I’d recommend hopping on Omio to compare all the different options at a glance.

That said, if you want to frolic in nature nature, explore remote villages or roll around in glamorous chateaux, you will probably need to rent a car, in which case here is a post to help you figure out how much renting a car in Europe really costs .

13. Book train tickets in advance for the best deal

For train travel, the national rail company in France is known as the SNCF (Société nationale des chemins de fer français).

The crown jewel of their offerings is the TGV (Train à grande vitesse, or “high speed train”), which are fast trains that can get across the country at truly alarming speeds, like this world record-setting ride which hit 574.8 km/h (or 357.2 mph).

There are also Intercity trains and TER trains that are less quick but serve regional and local routes.

In any case, booking in advance is the best way to ensure good deals, particularly on TGV trains, where reserved seats are mandatory and can sell out.

14. Consider Ouigo trains if on a budget

If you’re on a budget, another option to look into is Ouigo trains, which are like a budget version of the TGV.

They’re a bit less fancy and you need to pay extra for additional perks like extra bags but it can be really cheap if you book in advance.

15. Use the SNCF Connect website to your advantage

French train stations can be stressful, so whenever possible, I’d recommend booking your tickets beforehand… unless you particularly enjoy panicking in crowded spaces.

Luckily, the SNCF Connect website makes it easy.

You can easily see their best offers here , or search up your departure point/destination to see a price calendar that helps you identify the cheapest dates and times.

16. Know the ground rules for public transport

When it comes to using public transport in France, there are a few important must-knows that I think will make your experience smoother and more affordable.

So, here are some tips for using public transportation in France:

• Look for deals: Depending on the city, you’ll often special discounted tickets which can save you a lot of money compared to paying full price (e.g. youth tickets, special weekend tickets), so be sure to look into discounts and see if any apply to you.
• Always validate and hold onto your ticket: In France, there are ticket checkers who make sure you’ve paid for and validated your fare correctly. Sometimes they will even check you after you’ve gotten off the train (e.g. at the top of escalators at Metro stations), so do not throw your tickets away until you’ve left the station.
• Avoid public transport during rush hour and during big events like sports games: Trying to hop on Metros or buses when thousands of locals are trying to get to/from work (or to a big event) is truly one of the biggest travel mistakes you can make in France, so plan around it!
• Lastly, let people exit trains/buses first before storming in: This is common sense, but unfortunately not so common, so remember this little France etiquette tip!

17. Learn the tricks to saving money on French attractions

There are a few things that are inevitable when you visit France for the first time. For instance, you will probably eat enough pastries to fed a small village. You will probably also drop a lot of dough (heh) on pricey attractions.

They have to pay for all that scaffolding somehow, after all.

Don’t worry though, there are a lot of secret (and not so secret) ways to save money on attractions when visiting France. Here are a few of my favourites:

• Book in advance: This will save both time and (sometimes) money.
• Age-based discounts: Usually there are discounts for children, youth (under the age of 26) and seniors (usually 60+)
• Residency-based discounts: Many major museums offer free or discounted admission for EU residents under the age of 26.
• Student discounts: Be sure to get an  ISIC Card  as this is an internationally recognized student ID that costs about twenty bucks, but will save you at least that much in discounts. Some attractions won’t accept your local student ID, so having this is important.
• Attraction passes: Many cities will offer passes that bundle multiple attractions into one price. If you plan to see a lot of stuff, this can save you a LOT of money.

18. On a budget? Prioritize free museums and sights

Of course, the ultimate way to save money sightseeing in France is to simply prioritize all the amazing free things there are to see and do. This is one of my top Europe backpacking tips .

All over the country, there are free things to ogle and experience, from grandiose museums and architecture to street art and fun festivals, all of which are stunningly gratuit. .. like these amazing free things to do in Paris .

So, from one cheapskate to another, please milk them for all they’re worth.

PS:  Many of museums across France offer free admission on particular days of the month, so be sure to give those dates a Google prior to your visit.

19. Learn how to avoid mediocre, tourist trap restaurants

French cuisine is world-renowned, but it can be a bit of a struggle to find the right places to eat when visiting France for the first time.

The reason is simple: good, authentic restaurants are unlikely to make themselves easily accessible to tourists. In contrast, the restaurants with English menus, free WiFi and big photos to explain their specialties are (as you might assume) not the best in quality or price.

SO, what are some ways to avoid getting tourist trapped when dining out in France? Here are some ground rules.

• Dine far away from tourist attractions: Generally, these will have a poor price to quality ratio. Instead, walk a few blocks over before starting your food hunt, or do some prior research to find well-rated restaurants near you.
• Be sure to check reviews: Reviews aren’t always 100% accurate, but they can be helpful in showing you immediate red flags like scammy prices.
• Avoid places with big photos and menus in a bajillion languages: This is usually a sign that the restaurant caters to tourists, so will likely be (at best) overpriced or (at worst) lacking in quality food.
• Steer clear of places with an over-eager host: If there’s a pushy server outside asking you to sit down, odds are this won’t be the best place to eat.

20. Know the tricks to saving money on dining out in France

So once you’ve found your (non tourist trappy) restaurant of choice, what are some ways you can enjoy while saving money?

As someone who loves food and saving money in equal measure, here are a few tricks to take advantage of:

• Splurge at lunch: Many places will offer special deals for lunch, so keep an eye out for those!
• Learn how to correctly ask for tap water: If you’re looking for free hydration, be sure to ask for “une carafe d’eau” or they will assume you want bottled water, which can be as much as 7 euros per bottle! Although take note that it’s common/expected to have a paid drink with your meal as well, like wine or beer.
• Try the plat du jour (dish of the day): Many restaurants in France will offer this as a special in addition to the regular menu offerings – it’s usually cheaper or unique in some way, so nice to try if it sounds good!

21. Familiarize yourself with the structure of a French menu/meal

Dining out in France can be intimidating for first-timers, and also confusing due to words that are different in English vs. French.

For instance, a menu in France can refer to a paper list of dishes, but it more often refers to a combo that includes multiple things for one set price.

So in a restaurant for instance, this may be a meal that comes with an appetizer, main course, dessert and wine for one price, or in fast food restaurants for instance, often a “menu” will mean a combo that comes with fries and a drink.

The more common word for the menu in France is “ la carte”. This is why there’s sometimes the distinction between ordering the “menu” (e.g. the set meal that comes with multiple courses for one price) or ordering “à la carte” (e.g. ordering individual things off the list of dishes they offer).

Another confusing thing is the word entrées. Whereas in North America, entrée refers to the main course, in France it refers to the starter or appetizer and the main course is the plat principal (often shortened to just “plats” on menus).

So, to be clear, the structure of a French meal usually goes like this:

• L’Entrée: An appetizer
• Le Plat Principal: A main course
• Le Fromage: Cheese (Self explanatory), sometimes served with a light salad before
• Le Dessert: Sweets that finish the meal

There’s a misconception out there that French people eat cheese for dessert, which isn’t entirely true – it’s just that they believe cheese should come after the main course, and many choose not to (or have no room for) a sweet dessert after.

For particularly indulgent evenings, many will also enjoy an Apéritif before eating the meal, which is a pre-dinner drink that whets the appetite, as well as a Digestif after the meal, which is a post-dinner drink that aids digestion.

22. Learn French restaurant etiquette

Alright, now that you know how the menu works, here are some additional French travel tips related to the science/art of dining out in France:

Make reservations: If you’ve got your heart set on a particular restaurant during your trip in France, it’s best to reserve a table in advance, especially for peak periods like weekends.

Wait to be seated: Seating yourself is not common France, so don’t do it unless there’s a sign saying so (or face the wrath of your server).

Get your server’s attention if you need something: Generally speaking, the ultra-friendly and proactive customer service you get in North America doesn’t really exist in France, so if you need anything after your order has been taken/after your food has arrived, you must take the initiative to flag down your server.

Avoid customizing your order with substitutions: This is not very common in France, as it’s usually assumed the chef knows best.

Ask for the bill when you want it: It will not come automatically, as they consider it rude to interrupt you during your meal.

23. Learn how to tip in France

In France, a 15% service charge is included in your bill, so the tipping culture here is definitely less prominent than in North America.

Opinion is divided on whether or not you should still tip on top of this service charge – younger locals often won’t bother with a tip at all. For me personally, it comes down to what “feels right” (so Canadian, I know!)

If you feel your server deserves a bit extra, then 5-10% would be acceptable… but you don’t need to feel obligated like you might in North America.

24. Have a quick search of regional specialties before you go

A lot of first time visitors to France will be familiar with some classic dishes – from the infamous escargot and frog legs to beloved classics like French onion soup and pastries.

Of course, it goes without saying that there is much more to French food than that.

French cuisine (much like its culture) has a lot of regional differences, so wherever you travel, be sure to sample the local specialty wherever you are instead of simply picking what you consider to be “typical French dishes”.

… and for the best results, pair them with local wine too.

25. Revamp your concept of “casual”

In terms of what to wear in France, contrary to popular belief, or what you see from fashion bloggers and Emily in Paris, not everyone in France is a fashion model dressed to the nines everyday.

That said, the default casual look in France is definitely elevated when compared to the standard ‘sweatpants, flip flops, and athleisure’ casual commonly seen in North America.

So if you want to blend in a bit more while in France, focus on clean neutral basics, and things that emulate a sort of effortless chic.

Although of course, at the end of the day, just wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident. Trust me, they’ll be able to tell you’re a tourist no matter what you wear.

26. Don’t bring any suitcases you can’t carry

But speaking of France packing tips, another important must-know is that any bag you bring should be one you’re comfortable carrying yourself.

Sure, you might think that there’s no need for lifting your bag if you’re checking it, but there are a million and one scenarios where you might have to end up carrying your suitcase in France, like…

• Your hotel or accommodation unexpectedly has no elevator
• The elevator you were counting on at the train station is out of order
• You need to carry your bag up some ancient staircase to get to your accommodation
• You need to lift your suitcase on/off the train you’re taking

So yes, get that strength training in now, and pack as light as possible.

27. Carry (at least a bit) of cash

While cards are accepted in many places around France, it’s still important to carry around cash, whether for small purchases or for essentials like using the washroom. Keeping coins is also a good idea!

28. Claim VAT refunds at the airport

France is a popular destination for shopping, especially if you’re into French brands and luxury goods.

SO, if you’re from outside the EU and plan to do a lot of shopping, you may qualify for a VAT tax refund when you leave France. This can amount to huge amounts depending on what you buy!

To qualify, you have to be a non-EU resident older than 15 years of age, and you need to spend more than 175 euros in one store in one day.

Here’s more info on how to claim your VAT refund before you leave France.

29. Floors start at zero so don’t get confused 

Another random France tip (which will be no news to you if you’ve seen Emily in Paris) is that the floor system in French buildings is different to what we see in North America.

Whereas in North America, the ground floor is often considered the 1st floor, the ground floor is considered its own separate entity in France (i.e. Floor 0) and then the next one above that would be the 1st floor.

… So, if your hotel key isn’t working, this might be why!

30. Try to buy your alcohol (from shops) before 10pm

This is a rather niche France travel tip, but one that has gotten me one too many times, so I’m sharing it anyway.

While there are no official alcohol sale restrictions in France, some supermarket chains and gas stations won’t let you purchase booze after a certain time (usually around 9 or 10pm).

So, if you’re hoping to get a bottle of wine to finish the evening, make sure you do so early. Although if you’re desperate, Uber Eats can deliver alcohol, as well as some “convenience stores”, although you can expect inflated prices from both these options.

31. Know that Disneyland Paris is not in Paris

Lastly, if you’re planning on adding Disneyland Paris to your itinerary, I would definitely recommend doing some additional research because despite the name, the park is actually about an hour away from Paris proper.

And while I personally think Disneyland Paris is a great time, a lot of visitors from abroad who have been to other Disney parks often find it disappointing.

So, when choosing day trips or planning your itinerary, definitely consider if there are other places that might be a better use of your time… because as you should know by now, there’s a lot to discover in this country!

Keen on seeing Disneyland Paris? Here are some of my best guides to help you out:

• 20+ tips for visiting Disneyland Paris
• An insider guide to Disneyland Paris’ best secrets and hidden gems
• How to plan a day trip from Paris to Disneyland Paris
• A guide to the Disneyland Paris Castle

I hope this list of France Travel Tips was helpful!

The fact that you’re still reading this is both an honour and a miracle. This was a VERY long list of travel tips for France, but if you have any more questions, let me know in the comments.

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

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💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

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✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

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Foreign Office issues updated travel advice for anyone going to France

T he Foreign Office today updated its travel advice for France amid expected chaos in widespread strikes. In a new warning, it said that both air and rail services could be impacted.

It said anyone travelling should check with the travel operator before starting the journey. It said: “Strike action in France on Friday 13 October may affect some rail and air services. Check with your travel operator before starting your journey. A demonstration is planned in Paris in the afternoon, moving from the Place d’Italie (in the 13th arrondissement) to the Place Vauban (7th arrondissement). Stay away from demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities.”

The strikes could hit fans travelling to the continent as the Rugby World Cup reaches the quarter-final stages. Wales have a big match on Saturday against Argentina, with England playing Fiji on Sunday.

The Foreign Office also warned about pro-Palestinian demonstrations. It said: "There have been some pro-Palestinian demonstrations in France related to events in Israel and Gaza. The French government has banned such demonstrations. French authorities have increased security around Jewish community sites. Stay aware of your surroundings, stay away from demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities."

Many airlines warned passengers to expect delays, the Liverpool Echo reported . On its website, easyJet said: “We have been advised of a national strike in France starting 18:00 local time on Thursday 12th October to 06:00 Saturday 14th October. Air Traffic Control staff are joining the strike action and therefore like all airlines, our flights to and from French airports, as well as those flying in French airspace, could be affected.

“We expect that there will be delays and some disruption due to the industrial action, therefore we advise all customers to check the status of their flight on our flight tracker either on our mobile app or website: www.easyjet.com/en/flight-tracker

“Please also be aware that public transport services may be affected by the strike. We recommend all customers allow plenty of extra time to get to the airport and consider alternative transport options where possible.”

Ryanair said: “Due to the French ATC strike on Friday, we have been forced to cancel a small number of flights mainly overflying France. Affected passengers have been notified of their options to change flights (free of charge) or receive a full refund.

“So far in 2023, there has been 64 days of ATC strikes (over 12 times more than in 2022) forcing airlines to cancel thousands of EU overflights from Germany, Spain, Italy, Ireland, and the UK, while France uses Minimum Service Laws to protect French flights. This is unfair. France (and all other EU states) should protect overflights during ATC strikes as they do in Spain, Italy and Greece, and cancel flights to/from the affected State.

“Ryanair sincerely apologises to affected passengers for any inconvenience as a result of these French ATC strike disruptions, which are beyond Ryanair’s control.”

Jet2 also alerted passengers of the strike and added: “Whilst we are unsure of any disruption this may cause there is a possibility of disruption to flights that are due to operate within French airspace. For us to achieve departures as close to our published schedules, it is necessary for us to close our check-in desks and board flights in line with your flight’s scheduled departure time.

“Check-in will close 40 minutes before your scheduled departure, and we will board your flight on time in order to get you on your way as quickly as possible. This way, we are in a position for an immediate departure when required.”

Britons warned of holiday hell as 2,000 flights cancelled with easyJet, Ryanair and BA affected - expect 'disruption'

Britons going abroad have been advised to check travel advice

By Anna Barry

Published: 25/04/2024

Updated: 25/04/2024

Holidaymakers should check their operator's advice before travelling

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France is a popular holiday destination for Britons but holidaymakers have been warned of major disturbance today.

Britons with a flight booked into France or out of France should keep consulting travel advice as many have been cancelled.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) warned Britons: "It is being reported that on Thursday, April 25, 2024, flights across France will be disrupted, with many cancelled, following a call for strike action by air traffic control unions.

"Check your operator’s advice before travelling, including where you are taking connecting flights."

Britons have been given an immediate travel warning

GETTY IMAGES

While the strike action has been called off, many flights may face disruption in the wake of this.

Airlines for Europe said: "In advance of the strike, airlines had been forced to cancel more than 2,000 flights, the majority of which would have landed or departed from France.

"Another 1,000 flights would have had to divert away from French airspace causing further delays and disruption."

For Britons in Paris, the DGAC civil aviation authority told airlines that around 75 per cent of flights at Orly and 55 per cent at Charles de Gaulle Airport will be cancelled on April 25.

Those in Marseille have been warned that around 65 per cent of services at Marseille Airport will not go ahead. Elsewhere in France, 45 per cent of flights have been cancelled.

Several airlines released statements regarding disruptions to services. Ryanair shared that it was forced to cancel more than 300 flights, affecting 50,000 passengers. Boss Michael O'Leary made a statement in which he said: "French air traffic controllers are free to go on strike, that’s their right, but we should be cancelling French flights, not flights leaving Ireland, going to Italy, or flights from Germany to Spain or Scandinavia to Portugal."

He called for "action to protect overflights which will eliminate over 90 per cent of these flight cancellations".

Yesterday, the managing director of Airlines for Europe (A4E) Ourania Georgoutsakou said: "While the withdrawal of strike notice may offer some relief for some passengers, its last-minute nature means that there will still be significant disruption to flights in France and across parts of Europe.

"This is a clear illustration of why we need an EU framework for minimising disruption from ATC strikes and for providing advance clarity and certainty on ATC capacity across Europe.

"Airline operations cannot be turned on and off like a light switch. Airlines will be working hard to fly as many flights as possible tomorrow but the last-minute about turn by the largest union involved will likely be too little too late for many."

The FCDO said: "There can be frequent industrial action across France. This can lead to disruption and delays on public transport. If you’re due to travel to or within France, monitor the media, check your operator’s advice and follow the advice of the authorities."

Those visiting France should consult the FCDO for information on safety and security, including where terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks, pickpocketing, and assaults taking place on trains.

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France is a popular holiday destination amongst Britons

Britons can also find guidance on laws and cultural differences, outdoor activities and adventure tourism, transport risks, and extreme weather and natural disasters.

Those planning on travelling to France and anywhere else have been advised to "follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

"If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency."

In recent travel news, Britons were issued with a warning as cases of a "potentially life-threatening" disease rise in England, Wales and Nothern Ireland.

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EasyJet's hand luggage rules explained including what you can and can't bring on board

easyJet has issued advice for passengers regarding what items are banned in hand luggage and other bag restrictions you need to know about before boarding a flight

• 14:16, 8 Apr 2024
• Updated 16:19, 8 Apr 2024

Whether you're flying with Ryanair, easyJet, TUI, Jet2, or British Airways, navigating airlines' hand luggage rules in 2024 is no easy feat, from the rules on what you can actually bring for free to the food that's banned onboard .

Oh, and that's before you even get to the list of items that are banned entirely, or could land you in serious trouble at airport security.

Luckily for easyJet passengers, the airline has issued plenty of guidance as it wants people "to be able to pack in confidence" reports the Daily Record .

We take a look at some of the bans and restrictions you need to know before you start packing your bag.

It's worth noting that some rules can also vary depending on the destination you're flying to, so if there's something you're not sure about, your best bet is always to get in touch with the airline directly as they will be able to advise on the rules.

Sadly Brits are going to have to wait a little longer for the 100ml liquids rule to be scrapped in UK airports, as the latter have struggled to meet the original June 2024 deadline set by the government. That means that this summer, the current restrictions will be in place no matter what airline you're flying with.

Under the current rules, all liquids and gels in your hand luggage must be in containers no larger than 100ml. All of these should fit within one transparent, resealable bag of dimensions 20cm x 20cm.

However it's worth noting that once you've passed airport security, the limit won't apply if you buy drinks, toiletries or other liquids in duty free.

Alcohol bought at the airside departure lounge can be taken into the cabin, provided it remains unopened. Alcohol must not exceed 70% abv and should be packed either in an airport shopping bag or in your cabin bag. The airline enforces: "It's strictly forbidden to drink any alcohol that has not been purchased on board the aircraft and those found consuming their own alcohol may face prosecution."

You can bring food into the cabin. There is a 100ml limit for liquid food such as soup or custard - and these must be in clear containers.. Different countries have different regulations about importing food and drink, so check the rules for your destination before heading to the airport. If in doubt, get in touch with easyJet direct who can advise if there are any restrictions.

Hot drinks, baby food and milk

You can bring hot drinks on board if you've bought them at the airport and they have a lid on.

Thankfully, the 100ml liquid limit doesn't apply to baby food, milk or sterilised water, provided that the total amount is no more than one litre. You may be asked to taste it for security reasons. If you're travelling with a baby you may want to check out our dedicated guide to airline rules on baby food and prams .

For example, as well as your usual hand luggage allowance, easyJet allows parents to bring two additional items for children free of charge, but these will be placed in the hold. This includes a travel cot, pushchair, car seat, collapsible or non-collapsible pram, booster seat and/or baby back carrier. Infants under two will need to sit on their parent's lap, and won't get an extra bag, unless you've booked a separate seat for them.

Cigarettes and e-cigarettes

You can carry cigarettes in your cabin bag however you should check how many cigarettes you're allowed to bring into your destination country. Lighters can be taken on board but they must be carried in your pocket with the airline warning that matches are not allowed on board.

When it comes to e-cigarettes, you can carry a maximum of two spare batteries in your cabin bag but they cannot go in the hold. They warn: "You can't smoke any type of cigarette on the plane. It's a criminal offence to do so. Re-charging of e-cigarettes or vaping devices is strictly prohibited on board."

Sharp objects

You can bring tweezers, scissors with rounded ends and blades less than 6cm long into the cabin. Razor blades are only allowed in the cabin if they're set in plastic. Knives with a blade not exceeding 6cm can be taken on board. Other sharp objects are not allowed in the cabin. Visit easyJet's dangerous goods page for more information.

Pets and assistance dogs

Animals are not allowed on easyJet flights, but recognised registered guide and assistance dogs are an exception.

Camping equipment or stoves

Camping stoves and fuel containers with flammable liquid must be carried in the aircraft hold, provided the container is drained of all liquid before the flight. If carrying a used camping stove or fuel tank, allow the empty fuel tank or container to drain for at least one hour.

easyJet says: "The fuel tank or container must then be left uncapped for a minimum of 6 hours to allow any residual fuel to evaporate. The fuel tank or container must have the cap securely fastened and be wrapped in absorbent material, such as paper towels, and be placed in a polyethylene or equivalent bag. The top of the bag must then be sealed or gathered and closed with an elastic band or string."

Camera recording equipment

Cameras can exceed the usual size restrictions for baggage (maximum dimensions 63cm x 27cm x 28cm length x width x height). They should be stowed in the overhead locker length-wise to minimise space usage.

There's no requirement for them to be stored inside a bag, and they can't be kept under the seat in front of you. The lithium battery must be easily removable, warns easyJet.

Smart luggage

Smart luggage, or bags containing a lithium battery or power bank used to power itself or recharge other devices, comes with certain restrictions. There are limitations on the type of lithium batteries permitted in the hold.

easyJet has issued guidance for passengers travelling with smart luggage and musical instruments. For those checking in smart luggage, the airline instructs: "If the smart luggage is to be checked in and put in the hold, you need to disconnect and remove the lithium battery/power bank from the smart luggage at Bag Drop and take it into the cabin with you. Any exposed terminals should be protected from short circuit."

When carrying smart luggage in the cabin, they add: "If the smart luggage is to be carried in the cabin, you need to disconnect and remove the lithium battery/power bank from the smart luggage, but it can stay in the bag. In all cases, for safety reasons, the lithium battery/power bank needs to be disconnected, so if you are unable to remove it from your luggage, we won't be able to accept the bag on board."

Musical instruments

Regarding musical instruments, easyJet clarifies that any instrument larger than 30cm x 120cm x 38cm, such as a double bass or harp, cannot be taken on board as cabin baggage and must be added as hold luggage. They advise ensuring instruments are packed safely and securely and recommend purchasing specialist travel insurance before flying.

For cabin baggage, the size of the musical instrument allowed depends on the passenger's cabin bag allowance. easyJet states: "Any instrument larger than 30 x 117 x 38cm can't be taken on board as cabin baggage unless you buy a separate seat for it - and it meets our safety requirements."

Alternatively, passengers have the option to add hold luggage for their instruments to their booking.

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Europe ’s biggest budget airline will remain apart from its two main rivals by shunning any kind of loyalty or frequent-flyer scheme , the boss has said.

Ryanair ’s chief executive, Michael O’Leary, told The Independent that travellers seeking a loyalty benefit should instead “buy a dog”.

Both easyJet and Wizz Air operate paid loyalty schemes that offer benefits for frequent flyers in return for a subscription. The former offers annual easyJet Plus membership for £170, providing benefits including a free large cabin bag and the ability to choose the best seats on the aircraft at no additional charge.

Wizz Air has a similar option, known as Privilege Pass, for which the annual subscription is €249 (£214) – as well as a paid-for Discount Club.

The aim of these schemes is to reward frequent flyers and entice travellers to book repeatedly with the preferred airline rather than rivals.

But Ryanair is known to have a disdain for such schemes – partly because of the added complexity, but also due to a sense that many easyJet and Wizz Air passengers extract much more value from the loyalty programmes than the cost of the subscription.

Regular passengers who fly once a fortnight with easyJet, for example, are paying only £7 for each trip for easyJet Plus membership – yet deriving benefits that may amount to £50 or more per flight.

Mr O’Leary insisted his airline has a different approach. When speaking to The Independent , he claimed that Ryanair fares are so low that the more passengers fly, the more they save.

He said: “I don’t understand why, if you’re already getting the lowest fares in Europe and therefore you’re already benefiting, saving money every time you fly with us, why do we need loyalty scheme?

“If you want something loyal, buy a dog. If you want the lowest air fares in Europe, fly Ryanair.”

Ten years ago, the airline’s chief executive embarked on a canine charm offensive when he launched Ryanair’s “Always Getting Better” plan. To promote the notion that he was “fixing the things our customers don’t like”, a photograph of Mr O’Leary cuddling a puppy was shown at a press conference .

Despite the prominence of the puppy, Ryanair rejected the prospect of carrying pets at the time. Mr O’Leary said: “We tried it, but we lost a snake in Sicily and a cat at Milan Bergamo.”

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Russian GPS jamming: which airlines and routes are affected?

Thousands of flights have been affected by suspected gps jamming. here’s what it means for air travel.

T housands of British flights have been targeted by suspected Russian GPS jamming near the Baltic region. Ryanair and Wizz Air logged the thousands of problems with their sat-navs, while a very small number of British Airways, Jet2, easyJet and Tui flights have also been affected. While GPS jamming can pose a danger to air travel, especially during take off and landing, pilots are trained to use alternative instruments if GPS navigation isn’t available to them. Here’s what you need to know.

What is GPS jamming?

All modern planes are built with equipment that send and receive constant signals from global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) such as the US’s Global Positioning System (GPS) and Europe’s Galileo. This information shows the precise location of the aircraft and helps the pilot to navigate during the course of a flight.

GPS jamming is when someone deliberately tries to overload an aircraft’s signal equipment with sustained interference in a way that means it can no longer send or receive information from GNSS. This means the plane’s location system will stop working, and neither the pilot nor flight trackers — which might be used by an aircraft nearby or air traffic controllers — will know where the plane is, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

GPS jamming is different from GPS spoofing, where someone uses signals to trick the plane’s equipment into thinking it’s somewhere else.

Which airlines and routes have been affected?

Using public flight logs, researchers from GPSJAM.org and The Sun found that 46,000 aircraft reported sat-nav problems while in the Baltic region between August 2023 and March 2024.

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It’s worth noting that the data only shows GPS interference, which could also come from factors such as solar flares and even tall buildings as opposed to GPS jamming.

However, GPSJAM.org said: “Areas where a significant percentage of aircraft report low navigation accuracy seem to correlate well with areas of known and suspected jamming.”

In total, 2,309 Ryanair and 1,368 Wizz Air flights were affected according to their research. Also affected were 82 flights operated by British Airways, seven by Jet2, four by easyJet and seven by Tui. The Times has contacted the affected airlines for comment; Tui has declined to comment.

More generally, GPS jamming is a known issue that’s increasing in frequency while the Baltic Sea is a target hotspot. In a report released by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in September 2023, the industry body also cited the Black Sea, southeastern Mediterranean area and the Middle East, and the Arctic region as areas frequently impacted by GPS jamming.

• Is it safe to fly on a Boeing plane? • Turbulence anxiety: how to stay calm on a plane

How worried should I be about travelling to eastern Europe?

Travellers heading to eastern Europe will obviously be concerned about the implications of GPS jamming.

However, it’s worth noting that GPS jammers have a limited range, which means once the plane leaves their vicinity, GPS navigation should return to normal. The most problematic period is during taxi, take-off and landing, when pilots and air traffic controllers need to know precisely where the aircraft is. Even then pilots are trained to overcome the issue.

Amanda Shaw, a pilot, said: “While GPS jamming is a known issue, it does not directly impact the safety of flights as commercial airlines have multiple backup systems in place to identify aircraft location and ensure accurate navigation.

“When jamming occurs, flight crews are trained to handle such situations calmly and effectively. So, travellers should not be concerned as the aviation industry has robust protocols to mitigate any risks posed by GPS interference.”

IATA has also recommended that pilots plan their routes around known GPS jamming hotspots.

What has the Foreign Office said?

The UK Foreign Office has not updated its travel advice for any of the Baltic states following the report on GPS jamming, and it does not look likely to do so.

In March 2024, a jet carrying defence secretary Grant Shapps was affected by GPS interference while flying near the Russian territory of Kaliningrad on the Baltic Sea. The interference lasted for around 30 minutes, and the pilot was forced to rely on alternative methods of navigation. The safety of the aircraft was not affected.

A defence source said at the time: “While the RAF are well prepared to deal with this, it still puts an unnecessary risk on civilian aircraft and could potentially endanger people’s lives. There is no excuse for this and it’s wildly irresponsible on Russia’s part.”

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