Easyjet: You’ve probably heard of this low-cost airline that flies to most European destinations. But is it aptly named, or more trouble than it’s worth?
After using EasyJet for the majority of my trips last year, I can honestly say I’m all for the budget airline. While I originally booked with it mainly for money-saving purposes, it was the lack of terrible experiences that kept me continuing to find myself soaring through the sky on its planes.
EasyJet is somewhat of the European answer to Jetstar, so there’s no disputing the fact that you face strict baggage restrictions, and that any flexibility or extras come at a fee. But that is the price you pay for being able to fly for less. The thing about EasyJet is if you know and accept its terms, flying with them doesn’t necessarily feel like a bargain-basement experience.
Here’s what I’ve learned over the past few years when it comes to flyng EasyJet;
- While on a base fare you are restricted to one piece of carry-on luggage, and there are dimension constraints on this, when it comes to weight, you’re free to go wild, provided you can carry your bag up the stairs, and lift and place it into the overhead locker. Be warned: EasyJet is very strict when it comes to only having one piece of carry on, so unless you’ve paid for more, you will need to consolidate any additional pieces, even if you think one is just a “handbag”.
- It’s best to book directly through EasyJet’s website, and check in as soon as you can. This will ensure you get the best seat possible – I’ve rarely been seated further back than row 10 using this tactic. Make sure you triple check all the details, because unless you pay for a flexible fare, you’ll be stung with steep costs to make changes. In my opinion, it’s not worth paying for the flexi fare unless you are unsure on the date and time.
- While I am slightly against being one of those keen beans who lines up before boarding has even started, with EasyJet it’s a good idea to get on board sooner rather than later, because overhead locker space is at a premium, and if you if you don’t ‘bags’ some space early on, you may be forced to have your bag put in the hold.
- As you have to pay for everything on board it’s wise to stock up on snacks and water after you pass security and before you get on your flight. EasyJet does however have an inflight magazine that is surprisingly good and well worth the read.
- As EasyJet flies out of London’s slightly harder-to-reach airports, I cannot recommend the EasyBus enough. With prices from as little as approximately four Australian dollars, it runs right round the clock, seven days a week, and makes getting to the airport a breeze.
I’d be lying if I said I’d never sat around waiting for a delayed EasyJet flight – this is a possibility no matter what airline you fly. But, in terms of the quality of the planes, including factors such as legroom and the staff on board, the service is great value for what you pay.
Have you flown EasyJet? What did you think of your experience?
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SJ is a regular travel contributor to YourLifeChoices. If she had one superpower, it would be teleportation – the ultimate cure for her fear of flying.
