The airline has shared advice for customers with concerns about upcoming bookings
Holidaymakers are looking ahead to the summer (stock photo)(Image: Getty)
easyJet Holidays has shared a message to passengers with concerns over upcoming bookings. Ahead of the summer holidays, experts have warned Europe could face jet fuel shortages if the Strait of Hormuz is not fully reopened within three weeks.
Airports Council International (ACI) Europe, the trade body for European airports, said: “At this stage, we understand that if the passage through the Strait of Hormuz does not resume in any significant and stable way within the next three weeks, systemic jet fuel shortage is set to become a reality for the EU. The fact that we are entering the peak summer season… is only adding to those concerns.”
Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary has also warned disruption could begin in May. He previously told Sky News: “Fuel suppliers are constantly looking at the market.
“We don’t expect any disruption until early May, but if the war continues, we do run the risk of supply disruptions in Europe in May and June, and we hope the war will finish sooner than that and the risk to supply will be eliminated.
“We think there is a reasonable risk, some low level, maybe 10% to 25% of our supplies might be at risk through May and June, so like everyone else in this industry, we hope the war ends sooner rather than later. If the war finishes by April and the Strait of Hormuz reopens, then there is almost no risk to supply.”
In response to recent developments, an easyJet Holidays customer asked the package holiday provider if their upcoming flight could be affected. Reaching out to EasyJetholidays on X, the customer said: “How concerned should we be that, given the potential aviation fuel shortages from end May, that our July flights Gatwick Bordeaux will be cancelled? Do you have surety of supply from Canada for example?”
Content cannot be displayed without consent
In a message on April 10, an employee told the passenger they would be notified if any changes were made to the booking. In the X post, easyJetholidays said: “Hi there, thanks for reaching out. We do appreciate your concerns.
“Please be assured, we are monitoring the situation closely and if there were to be any changes to your booking at all, our dedicated pre-travel team would be in touch to advise on your options.”
In other easyJet news, passengers have been advised that they will miss their flights if they are late arriving at their departure gate. The airline clarified its policy when a social media user contacted EasyJet after spending an hour in a passport control queue, which threatened to make them late for their departure gate.
On X, a user wrote: “EasyJet, we have 20 mins left until our flight from Palermo to London takes off, been in finger print queue for an hour now and moved three steps. They let LOADS of BA people through before us who are leaving 10 mins before our flight, and now we’re even more delayed. What will happen?”
In response, a member of the customer service team named Thando, on April 8, explained: “Hi Kez, thank you for reaching out. Please note that the boarding gate closes a minute before departure. After it closes, you will not be able to board and will miss your flight.”
With EasyJet passengers missing flights, and tourists with other airlines left affected too, the Mirror can explain more about the rules that have come into affected at European Union nations
18:12, 13 Apr 2026Updated 19:32, 13 Apr 2026
Chaos at Milan Linate airport on Sunday(Image: Emily_Benn20/X)
Brits have been plunged into travel chaos after long delays due to new EU border rules which have led to some passengers missing their flights home and ending up stranded abroad.
Around 100 EasyJet passengers were left behind when a flight from Milan’s Linate airport to Manchester left travellers behind who were stuck in massive lines, on Sunday. The new European Entry/Exit System (EES) was fully rolled out across the EU on Friday and it requires people from third-party countries, including the UK, to go through biometric and facial recognition checks.
Huge lines hit major airports in several cities, including Paris, Lisbon and Milan, as desperate travellers were forced to wait to clear immigration.
Some stranded passengers claimed people were vomiting and passing out in the huge queues at Milan’s Linate airport, on Sunday, as they also dealt with a heatwave.
The EU’s Entry/Exit System started on October 12, 2025, but it was rolled out fully on Friday, April 10. It is a new digital border system for people from third-party countries, including the UK, entering the Schengen area, which is essentially anywhere in the EU and a few additional countries.
This new system has replaced the old method of officials manually stamping passports when people arrive into the Schengen area.
What does the new process look like for Brits?
British travellers are asked to create a digital record at the port or airport on arrival, on their first visit to a Schengen area country after this new system. People do not have to fill anything out before they travel and the EES registration is free of charge.
Travellers could be asked to have a photo taken at a dedicated booth and submit their fingerprints. People could also be asked to provide fingerprints or a photo when they leave the Schengen area.
The government noted that the EES may take “each passenger a few extra minutes to complete”, but once done, the EES record is valid for three years.
Later this year, Brits will also need to participate in the new visa-waiver scheme, the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System), which is set to be implemented in late-2026.
Not to be confused with EES, ETIAS will require Brits visiting the EU to apply for a visa-exemption, with the application costing €20 (about £17.42), although it will be valid for three years.
What countries are in the Schengen area?
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
The Republic of Ireland and Cyprus are not within the Schengen area, and therefore EES is not applicable when travelling to either of these countries.
What issues have travellers faced so far?
One Brit revealed she was among the 100 people desperate to get home after the EasyJet flight took off from Milan and abandoned them. Carol Boon, 59, speaking to the BBC, said she had been away for a hen do but was left stuck in a “very stressful” situation at the airport with “people arguing, someone fainted, someone was sick”.
Another traveller, Max Hume, from Leeds, told the BBC that he spent a staggering £1,800 to get back home as soon as possible and travelled through Luxembourg.
EasyJet told The Mirror that the ordeal was “outside of our control” and said it held the flight for nearly an hour, adding: “These delays are unacceptable and so we continue to urge border authorities to ensure they make full and effective use of the permitted flexibilities for as long as needed so our customers’ travel plans are not impacted.
“Should a customer miss their flight due to EES delays they are offered free flight transfers on a later easyJet flight. For customers who book on other airlines they will need to contact their travel insurance to make a claim.”
Another passenger slammed EasyJet for the ordeal and claimed she was only offered £12.25 in compensation from the airline. Speaking to the BBC, the 17-year-old student, from Oldham, Greater Manchester, said she was forced to wait 20 hours in the airport with her boyfriend until they could get a flight the next day.
Kiera said these new flights would set her mum back £520 and they were going to Gatwick instead of Manchester. The student added that the couple got to the airport hours ahead of their flight but still didn’t make it on. She said: “We got here at seven-thirty for our flight at eleven so were super early. We got to Border Control and it was a massive queue of people.”
Jet2 has issued a fresh alert to passengers at Faro Airport, in Portugal, after reports of “congestion” through the site. In response to a passenger’s post online, a spokesperson for the airport said “the queues are completely out of our control”, adding: “We kindly recommend customers arrive to the airport as early as possible, to allow plenty of time to make it through.”
A spokesperson for ABTA, the association of travel agents and tour operators, says: “We’re advising passengers to go straight to passport control as soon as you have gone through check-in and security; that way you get the EES checks out of the way as early as possible.
“We’re also advising passengers to follow their transport provider’s advice on when to arrive at airports/ports etc. If flying, the usual rule is to arrive at the airport for a flight from Europe at least two hours before, so we’d encourage people to apply that as a minimum, but to also check with their airline and airport.”
A little-known airport rule could mean your phones or laptops are confiscated – and it applies in the UK affecting passengers with the likes of TUI, BA, Ryanair and easyjet
12:19, 13 Apr 2026Updated 12:20, 13 Apr 2026
Airport security check before flight. Passenger holding plastic bag with liquids above container with laptop and personal items.(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Brits should take heed of a little-known airport rule that could mean your phone or laptop gets confiscated before you’ve even boarded your flight.
The restriction is enforced at airport security, and has been known to catch out passengers flying on the likes of TUI, British Airways, Ryanair, or easyJet, and more, as the airlines themselves don’t enforce it.
Most of us take at least one electrical item in our luggage, be it a mobile phone, tablet, or laptop, and no doubt yours will hold your boarding pass and maybe a Netflix show or two to enjoy along the way. However, should you get to airport security and find your battery is at 0%, then you may have a problem. All electrical devices need to be powered up, as airport staff are allowed to ask you to turn these items on.
If a flat battery stops you from doing this, then you may be refused boarding, or may have to make the choice to leave your item behind. The UK government’s official website, which provides extensive travel guidance and updates, states: “Make sure your electronic devices are charged before you travel. If your device does not switch on when requested, you will not be allowed to take it onto the aircraft.”
Should you make the mistake of having an uncharged device in your hand luggage, the choices vary depending on the airport you’re travelling from and your airline. If you’ve not checked your bag yet, you can put it in there, and it’ll be put in the hold.
The advice from British Airways’ (BA) website is clear. “Please ensure that any items in your hand baggage are fully charged and switched on before you arrive at the airport. If your device is not charged, please place it in your checked baggage.”
They also advise: “If you are connecting, make sure that you do not deplete power in your devices during the first part of your journey as charging points at airports might be very limited and you may need an adapter.”
For London-Heathrow passengers, BA say those with flat batteries may need to rebook on a later flight to give them time to recharge, but that that “a fee might apply”. Alternatively passengers can leave goods at Bagport, the lost property office, and get a reference number for their item. Once at their destination, they can contact Bagport to arrange for the retrieval of their item.
Meanwhile TUI has warned passengers: “If you’re carrying any electronic devices in your hand luggage that are capable of holding a charge, you’ll need to make sure they’re fully charged when you go through airport security. This is part of new security measures that have been introduced by airports in the UK and abroad. We recommend you keep things like mobile phones switched on until you board the plane, as there might be more checks at the departure gate.”
It’s not just a flat battery that could prove an issue. Both easyJet and Jet2 have a list of prohibited items which include damaged batteries – so check your gadgets before you even set off for the airport. Jet2’s website is quite clear: “Damaged Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs) and/or spare/loose lithium batteries/cells (including power banks) are forbidden from carriage in all circumstances.”
Ryanair doesn’t provide any additional guidance other than keeping your phone charged. Under the FAQ ‘What happens if my smartphone or tablet dies before airport security?’, it states: “If you have already checked in online and your smartphone or tablet dies, you will receive a free of charge boarding pass at the airport.” However, it is not mentioned what your options would be if security refuses to let you through.
You can find out more about airport security on gov.uk.
Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com
The airline has issued guidance online after a passenger shared their concerns
The new system has meant long waiting times for many passengers across Europe(Image: Getty )
EasyJet Holidays has responded after passengers shared concerns online that they may miss their flights due to long queues at popular European airports. As the European Union’s (EU) new Entry/Exit System (EES) continues to roll out across the continent, passengers face long waits because it requires non-EU travellers to register biometric data, such as fingerprints and photos, on arrival, replacing passport stamps.
The new automated digital border system launched on October 12, 2025, and is expected to be fully operational in the Schengen Area by April 10, 2026. A statement on Gov.uk reads: “EES may take each passenger extra time to complete, so be prepared to wait longer than usual at the border.”
The countries in the Schengen area include: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. Many airports are reportedly facing long border check queues due to the new system.
The Republic of Ireland and Cyprus are not part of the Schengen area, so EES is not required when travelling to either country. Gov.uk adds: “You may also be asked to provide either your fingerprint or photo when you exit the Schengen area. The checks may take slightly longer than previously, so be prepared to wait during busy times.”
People have taken to social media to share their concerns about missing their flights due to long passport control queues, including EasyJet passengers. One woman, called Jenny, who goes by the username @MunchkinMumsie on X, posted about her worries of not getting through border control on time for her upcoming flight home.
Content cannot be displayed without consent
She said: “Hi @EasyJetholidays, I’m returning home from Palma tomorrow, our coach transfer is picking us up at 12.30, our flight is at 15.40 and we are 90 minutes away from the airport. I’m worried this will not give us enough time to get through the airport with my child, will this be ok?”
A spokesperson replied: “Hello Jenny, thanks for reaching out. Our transport providers are the local experts and will use their knowledge of the destination and airport experience to calculate your transfer pick up time to ensure your journey to the airport is stress free and that you arrive with enough time to drop off your bags and clear security. Do let us know if you’d prefer to make your own way, and we’ll be happy to update our suppliers! – Alex.”
Jenny then asked: “If we catch your transfer and don’t get through in time, do you cover all our expenses and book our alternate flight home?” The spokesperson told her: “Yes – our dedicated On Holiday Support teams will be more than happy to assist with rescue flights if required – Alex.”
Jenny responded with: “Thank you, there are lots of posts on Mallorca travel forums of the children’s queue for border control at Palma being 2-3 hours long. It seems crazy you are not arranging transfers for families to get to the airport earlier.”
Updating Jenny with guidance, the spokesperson issued an alert about ‘missed flights’ and what happens. They told her: “If we are alerted to any flights being missed, we will work alongside our in destination teams to address the issue at hand. As it stands, our customers have not advised us of any major issues with flights being missed – Alex.”
In another post in the thread, the spokesperson added: “Please do let us know if you are looking to make your own way to the airport on this occasion, and we’ll be more than happy to update our suppliers. We are unable to assist with adjusting your pick-up time – Alex.”
A statement on Palma Airport’s website reads: “The EES is mainly designed to save time and improve border security. It automates passport checks, identifies travellers who overstay, and helps detect fraudulent documents. It also supports authorities in preventing and investigating terrorism and other serious crimes.”
When passengers find out they might be late to their boarding gate, they should tell their airline using their app, email, or phone. They can also ask airport staff for assistance, since some airports have electric cars or allow passengers with short connections or flights leaving soon to skip to the front of the line.
It is advised that passengers arrive at the airport early to handle any unexpected delays at security or passport control. A spokesperson for ABTA, the association of travel agents and tour operators, says: “We’re advising passengers to go straight to passport control as soon as you have gone through check-in and security; that way you get the EES checks out of the way as early as possible.
“We’re also advising passengers to follow their transport provider’s advice on when to arrive at airports/ports etc. If flying, the usual rule is to arrive at the airport for a flight from Europe at least two hours before, so we’d encourage people to apply that as a minimum, but to also check with their airline and airport.”
Chaos erupted as British passengers were left stranded at Linate airport in Milan due to huge delays at border control meaning they missed their flight back to Manchester
Passengers were left stranded(Image: X/Emily_Benn20)
easyJet passengers were ‘close to passing out’ after being left in the heat as their flight left to Manchester without them due to border control chaos.
As well as concerns over how to get home, many passengers were left vomiting and passing out due to the heat, according to the BBC.
easyJet said it was working to support passengers but that the situation was “outside of our control”.
Large queues formed at the international airport causing mayhem.
Pictures and videos shared online showed scenes of mayhem as large queues formed at the international airport.
The carnage comes after the UK government updated its guidance to people travelling to the European Schengen area, meaning they may have to register biometric details when they arrive.
The implementation of the EU entry and exit system (EES) is an electronic system that replaces the physical stamping of passports when going through boarding control.
The airline said that it held the plane for almost an hour extra, but eventually had to depart due to crew working hours.
Passengers have been left disappointed after arriving at the airport in plenty of time and now facing huge delays to return home.
Emily Benn, from Grimsby, was travelling with five others on the 11am flight. Her new flight will now go to Gatwick rather than Manchester, meaning a £400 taxi fare on arrival.
She told the M.E.N: “We got to the airport at 8am and our flight was due to leave Milan Linate at 11am. As soon as our gate came on the board, we went straight to it and there was already a huge queue.
“The queue was for three separate flights, and there were hundreds of passengers all trying to get through. The new EES wasn’t working, so we all had to be checked by two people on passport control.
“It got to 11:20am and we were told the flight had left without us. They put us all on a shuttle bus and sent us back to the arrivals area, where we had to go back to the easyJet desk.
“We were told to rebook flights, so have booked to Gatwick and will then pay £400 for a taxi back to Manchester as that’s where our car is parked. We are a party of five adults and one child, who is due to have spinal surgery in a few days.”
Other passengers shared the ‘nightmare’ experience on social media. One posted: “What a nightmare!
“You abandoned me and 122 other passengers in Milan. You flew to Manchester with 34 onboard.
“We queued for three hours and all the time the flight info remained at ‘boarding’ we were then told the delayed flight had left.”
An easyJet spokesperson said: “We are aware that some passengers departing from Milan Linate today experienced longer than usual waiting times at passport control and we advised customers due to fly to allow additional time to make their way through the airport.
“We held flight EJU5420 from Milan to Manchester for nearly an hour to give passengers extra time but it had to then depart due to crew reaching their safety regulated operating hours. Customers who missed the flight have been offered a free flight transfer.
“We continue to urge border authorities to ensure they make full and effective use of the permitted flexibilities for as long as needed while EES is implemented, to avoid these unacceptable border delays for our customers. While this is outside of our control, we are sorry for any inconvenience caused.”
Vita Molyneux and Isobel Pankhurst Audience Writer
11:45, 12 Apr 2026
Airline with smallest seats where passengers are packed like sardines — not easyJet
You’re embarking on your dream getaway, sailing through security and preparing to settle into your aeroplane seat when you spot it: a minuscule middle seat you’ll need to squeeze into for the entirety of your journey.
Fortunately, there’s now a method to determine which budget carrier offers the most spacious seats, sparing you from compromising your precious comfort.
Which? has worked out which airlines boast the largest seats, enabling you to ensure you’re getting maximum value for money.
Regarding short haul journeys, the seat width (the gap between each armrest) ranges from 17 to 18 inches, which might not seem substantial.
Yet, that additional inch can prove transformative when you’re packed in like sardines.
The carriers offering the most generous economy seats are Wizz Air, TAP Portugal, easyJet and Lufthansa, all measuring 18 inches across.
This means the airlines with the narrowest seat widths are British Airways, Jet2, KLM, Norwegian, Ryanair, Tui and Aer Lingus, all matching at 17 inches.
Meanwhile, Vueling sits in between with 17.5 inches.
Airlines seat width and legroom
Below are airline seat width and legroom in inches.
If you’re keen to secure additional space on your budget flight without parting with extra cash, there are several tricks you can employ.
The first involves booking a seat in the bulkhead – those positioned directly behind the walls, curtains or screens which divide the aircraft. With no seats ahead, you’ll have the freedom to fully extend your legs. However, these may be marginally narrower if tray tables are housed in the armrest.
If a bulkhead doesn’t appeal to you, select a seat towards the back of the aircraft where they narrow.
This can occasionally mean fewer seats per row – but naturally, you might find yourself beside the toilet queue which can prove somewhat disruptive.
If you’re on a flight which has already departed and you spot additional empty seats, you can always courteously ask the cabin crew if it would be feasible to relocate.
Bear in mind, if you don’t ask, you don’t get – and provided you’re polite there’s a possibility they’ll accommodate your request.
If you have particular requirements that would benefit from additional space, such as being tall or pregnant, you’ve got a reasonable chance of being relocated to a more spacious area.
Major UK airlines have warned that should the Strait of Hormuz not be fully reopened in the coming weeks then fuel shortages will have an impact of travel ahead of the summer holidays
Airlines give warnings as fuel shortages faced by EU airports
European airports will face “systemic” shortages of fuel if the Strait of Hormuz is not fully reopened within three weeks, experts have warned.
ACI Europe, which represents EU airports, noted that jet fuel reserves were running low with further supplies strained due to “the impact of military activity on demand”.
Despite a current ceasefire and negotiations of a deal underway, there will still be ‘ripple effects’ for airlines as the impact of reduced gas supplies was felt worldwide.
With JD Vance announcing today “no deal” has been reached yet, it means that the impact could be felt as early as the week of May 4.
A letter seen by the Financial Times, warned “increasing concerns of the airport industry over the availability of jet fuel as well as the need for proactive EU monitoring and action”.
“If the passage through the Strait of Hormuz does not resume in any significant and stable way within the next three weeks, systemic jet fuel shortage is set to become a reality for the EU,” the letter said.
Although major airlines still have weeks of supply left, the upcoming peak summer season raises further concerns about supply and costs.
Ryanair has warned that if the war doesn’t end this month, there will be disruption from May.
Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary said: “Fuel suppliers are constantly looking at the market. We don’t expect any disruption until early May, but if the war continues, we do run the risk of supply disruptions in Europe in May and June, and we hope the war will finish sooner than that and the risk to supply will be eliminated.
“We think there is a reasonable risk, some low level, maybe 10 per cent to 25 per cent of our supplies might be at risk through May and June, so like everyone else in this industry, we hope the war ends sooner rather than later.
“If the war finishes by April and the Strait of Hormuz reopens, then there is almost no risk to supply.”
Despite the confidence that should negotiations be made, travel will not be under threat, it is reported that suppliers are unable to guarantee deliveries into May.
This week European jet fuel prices hit a record $1,900 per metric ton, according to specialised publication Argus.
The hike could see potential shortfalls coming in future months.
Kenton Jarvis, the boss of EasyJet, warned that pricing was “volatile” since this “terrible war started” however the company is “well hedged” in terms of supplies.
The likelihood of cancellations comes after four Italian airports last weekend introduced restrictions on jet fuel after disruption. Air New Zealand also cancelled a selection of flights due to high fuel prices.
The airline has responded to passenger concerns online after a 14-hour delay
The passenger said their flight was due for take off at 12pm, but was delayed until 2am (stock image)(Image: Getty)
EasyJet has issued an alert after passengers say they were left waiting hours and hours for their flight due to a major delay. The budget airline is popular nationwide for its wide range of flights and affordable fares.
However, as with any airline, unforeseen circumstances can lead to delays, resulting in passengers waiting longer to board their plane. In a recent online post, one EasyJet passenger claimed they had waited 12 hours, with another two hours to go, because their flight was “delayed”.
Explaining the situation and asking EasyJet for input, the passenger, called Gillian Telfer, took to X to say: “@EasyJet, our flight to Glasgow from Rome was due to depart today at 11.55am. We were told that due to a technical issue there would be a delay.”
They added: “It is now 00.20am and we have an estimated flight at 2am. There are many families here all desperately tired.”
Responding to the post in a fresh alert on its official X account today (April 11), a spokesperson for the airline said there are “many factors” that may delay a flight, including “safety reasons”. They explained: “Hi Gillian, thank you for reaching out. I’m sorry to hear that your flight to Glasgow from Rome was delayed.
Content cannot be displayed without consent
“Unfortunately, many factors come together that can lead to our flights being delayed. This may be for safety reasons and required regulatory approvals. Thanks, Anga.”
Flight delays can last for many hours since airlines have very strict schedules. Just one small problem can cause a ‘ripple effect’ that affects many other flights.
According to the UK Civil Aviation Authority, if your flight is delayed for several hours, you are typically entitled to assistance regardless of the cause. If the delay is two hours or more, passengers are entitled to food and drink vouchers.
For delays that last three hours or more, passengers may be entitled to financial compensation, especially if the delay was within the airline’s control, for instance, a technical fault. If a delay lasts overnight, however, passengers are entitled to hotel accommodation and transport between the airport and hotel.
A statement on the EasyJet website reads: “The best place to keep up to date on the status of your flight with real-time information is via our Flight Tracker, which can also be accessed via our mobile app. If your flight is more than two days in advance, please sign in by using your booking reference and last name or your account details.”
The airline says that if a delay is longer than five hours, passengers can change their flights for a later date, subject to seats being available. Alternatively, they can cancel their delayed flight and apply for a full refund.
If you’re planning to take a hot beverage on your next flight, make sure you know your airline’s policy around food and drink. Some airlines are pickier than others about what you can bring into the cabin
14:47, 09 Apr 2026Updated 16:59, 09 Apr 2026
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
A strong coffee is essential for those early morning flights(Image: Getty Images)
When you’re rushing to the airport for a budget airline flight at some ungodly hour, you’ll no doubt be dreaming of your first cup of coffee of the day. Once through security, many of us make a beeline for the nearest café to get us through to our destination.
However, when it comes to boarding your flight, not all airlines are happy for you to bring your venti cup onboard. While some airlines are fine with hot drinks as long as the lid is well-secured, others will make you bin your freshly-roasted drinks and you may end up waiting for the trolley to come round to get your caffeine fix.
It’s important to check the rules with your airline – otherwise you may end up wasting money on a coffee you then need to chuck before you get on your flight.
Here’s what some of the UK’s most popular airlines say about bringing hot drinks onboard in their policies.
EasyJet
If you’ve booked a flight with easyJet you can bring your own food and drink, although the airline does of course sell its own range onboard. When it comes to your morning cuppa or coffee, the easyJet website states: “You can bring hot drinks on board if you’ve bought them at the airport and they have a lid on.”
When you buy your takeaway drink, make sure you keep hold of the lid, or even better buy a reusable cup with a tight seal such as the Byron 2.0 SNAPSEAL™ Travel Mug and get it filled with your favourite drink at the airport before you board.
Jet2
Unfortunately for Jet2 passengers, the airline doesn’t allow you to bring a cup of coffee onboard, even if bought at the airport. Its website states: “No, you can’t bring hot food or hot drinks onboard our planes for safety reasons. However, we offer a great selection of meal deals and hot and cold sandwiches that can be pre-purchased in Manage My Booking.”
The Jet2 website also has a link to its online menu, which shows it sells a range of Costa coffees including cappuccinos, lattes, Americanos, and decaf options. Its menu also includes Yorkshire Tea and Cadbury’s hot chocolate.
Ryanair
While Ryanair does allow passengers to bring their own cold food and drink onboard, its general terms and conditions of carriage clearly state: “You must not take hot drinks on the plane, or drink your own alcohol when on the plane.”
Ryanair has an app that allows passengers to order food and drink before the trolley comes round and in-between drink service. You can therefore order a coffee or tea as soon as you’re in the air and the crew will deliver it when safe to do so. While its hot drink selection is quite limited at just coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or cappuccino, the airline does offer some meal deals that include a sandwich and panini, snack, and either hot or cold drink which can work out cheaper.
TUI
TUI don’t specify whether you can bring your cup of coffee onboard. Under an FAQ saying “Can I take my own food for the flight?” the airline has responded: “Yes. However, we can’t provide heating facilities on board – although for infants, we are able to warm bottles of milk in hot water.
“Therefore, we would advise low-risk food such as pre-made sandwiches and snacks that can be eaten cold.”
It’s likely to be at the discretion of flight attendants whether they let you bring your coffee cup onboard, so you may be better off waiting for the trolley. TUI’s inflight café menu for short-haul flights includes cappuccinos, Americanos, and decaf options for coffee, as well as teas including herbal tea, and Cadbury’s hot chocolate.
British Airways
British Airways (BA) also don’t explicitly ban hot drinks from being brought onboard. It simply states that food and drink needs to pass security checks and adhere to customs regulations, so again, it’s likely to be at the crew’s discretion.
BA offer the High Life Café aboard most short-haul routes meaning travellers get a better choice of hot drinks than most airlines. From a flat white to a pumpkin spice latte, you’ll find the kind of coffees you usually order in high street chains. It also offers a wide range of Birchall teas and hot chocolate.
Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com
TUI, easyJet, Ryanair and Jet2 can have different rules around what duty free bags you can bring onboard as part of your hand luggage allowance – we take a look at what passengers need to know
13:22, 08 Apr 2026Updated 14:17, 08 Apr 2026
Some airlines are more generous than others when it comes to hand luggage(Image: Getty Images)
Before heading to the airport, it’s crucial to be aware of any hand luggage restrictions and certain duty-free rules that not everyone knows about, with airlines including TUI and Ryanair.
Many of us fly with different airlines, depending on the route, airport and price, so it’s tricky to keep up with the various hand luggage allowances or restrictions. Most airlines allow passengers to take on board a small personal bag for free, which can include a backpack or handbag, while others offer a generous addition of a free cabin bag.
There can also be confusion when it comes to carrying on duty-free, alongside your personal bag or cabin bag. Holidaymakers have often been left questioning whether they can carry it on separately or if they have to pack it into one of their bags.
To ensure you’re fully prepared for your next getaway, we’ve outlined the key hand luggage rules for four major UK airlines. So you know exactly how big your bag needs to be and what to do with your duty-free goodies before boarding your flight.
Ryanair
When it comes to duty-free, Ryanair allows passengers to carry on their duty-free items alongside their cabin bags. Additionally, passengers can purchase checked bags of 10kg, 20kg, or 23kg while flying with Ryanair.
All Ryanair fares include a small personal bag (40 x 30 x 20 cm), but it must fit under the seat in front of you. There is technically no weight limit to this bag, which is typically a handbag, laptop bag, or small rucksack, but passengers must be able to carry it onboard, unless there is an exception.
When booking Priority boarding, travellers can take an additional 10kg cabin bag (55 x 40 x 20cm) on the plane, which is stored in the overhead lockers. While infants (aged from 8 days to 23 months) have no cabin allowance, parents or guardians can bring a 5kg baby bag ( 45 x 35 x 20 cm) and two baby items on board for free. For more information, visit the Ryanair website.
easyJet
In terms of duty-free, the airline states: “You’re allowed to bring some extra things into the cabin. e.g. umbrella, overcoat, crutches, walking stick, one standard bag of goods bought at the airport.”
Everyone flying with easyJet is entitled to bring one small bag (45 x 36 x 20 cm) on board for free, which must fit under the seat in front. It can weigh up to 15kg, but it’s important to note that its size, including handles and wheels, cannot exceed the specified measurements.
The airline notes that travellers “need to be able to lift and carry the bag” themselves. easyJet passengers can pay for an additional cabin bag (56 x 45 x 25 cm) that fits in the overhead lockers, which also comes with their Speedy Boarding service.
For an easyJet Plus member or customer who has booked an Inclusive Plus fare, they can also take a large cabin bag on board, in addition to the standard cabin bag. Of course, there’s the option to book checked-in luggage too.
TUI customers can take one piece of hand luggage (55 x 40 x 20cm) on board for free, excluding infants. It can weigh up to 10kg, and they can also take one small personal bag (40 x 30 x 20cm) on board, which must fit under the seat in front.
A duty-free bag is also allowed on board, and TUI outlines its requirements for liquids purchased at the airport. They said: “Any liquids you buy from duty-free must be carried in a sealed security bag – you’ll be given this bag when you buy the item at the airport. You’ll need to keep the item and the receipt sealed in the security bag throughout the journey.”
A checked-in bag of 20kg or 25kg is also available to book for an extra fee. For more information, visit the TUI website.
Jet2
Holidaymakers are entitled to take a small bag (40 x 30 x 20cm), such as a handbag or laptop bag – or a duty free bag – that must fit under the seat in front.
You can also take one piece of hand luggage (56cm x 45cm x 25cm) on board for free, provided it fits within the measurements, including wheels and handles, and doesn’t weigh more than 10kg.
Parents with infants under 2 years old are also provided with an additional 10kg allowance. They can also take two items per child or infant on board free of charge, including a collapsible pushchair, car seat or booster, a baby carrier, and a travel cot.
When it comes to hand luggage, there are certain packing restrictions to be aware of, and these are typically universal across all airlines. These include the following:
• Liquids: Many airports require liquids to be under 100ml, while some UK airports have ditched this rule. As rules have changed, it’s best to check directly with the airport for both your outbound and inbound flights, as countries outside the UK may have different restrictions.
• Lighters: As outlined on the government website, travellers can only carry one lighter on board a plane. It cannot be packed in hold luggage; instead, it should be placed in a resealable plastic bag in carry-on luggage and kept in your possession throughout the flight.
• Food and powders: While you can carry certain food items and powders in your hand luggage, they can obstruct images on X-ray machines. This means that bags may need to be manually checked at security, which can cause delays. The government advises packing suitable items into your hold luggage to minimise delays.
• Frozen items: Typically, you cannot carry frozen items in your hand luggage onto your flight, such as food, liquids or ice packs. However, there are some exceptions, such as for medicines, medical equipment, dietary requirements, baby food and baby milk. It’s best to check directly with the airline you’re flying with to ensure you meet their requirements.
• Sharp objects: While you can carry scissors on a plane, the blade must be shorter than 6cm to be placed in carry-on luggage. Small sewing or embroidery scissors are generally allowed, while other larger, sharp items can be packed into hold luggage. It’s best to check directly with your airline for specific requirements.
Some airlines may have specific requirements for some of the above items, so before heading to the airport, it’s best to check directly with your airline to avoid being caught out. After all, there’s nothing worse than having something confiscated at airport security.
Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com
Airlines are becoming stricter with cabin bag regulations, scrutinising the size and weight of passengers’ luggage. If your baggage exceeds the permitted dimensions or weight, you could be hit with hefty last-minute fees.
For example, easyJet warns: “We check cabin bag sizes before you board. If your cabin bag is bigger than the maximum size allowed or if you bring a large cabin bag to the departure gate without the correct seat selection or without one pre-booked for your flight, it won’t be able to go in the cabin. We’ll have to check it into the aircraft hold and charges will apply.”
Given these stricter check-in rules, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with your airline’s baggage allowances. Here’s what some of the most popular airlines permit.
Ryanair
If you’re flying with Ryanair, “all fares include one small personal bag (40 x 30 x 20 cm) that must fit under the seat.”
You can add extra options like Priority boarding with a second 10kg cabin bag, checked bags of 10kg, 20kg (up to 3), or 23kg (1 allowed). Infants have no cabin allowance but may bring a 5kg baby bag and two baby equipment items free, it confirms.
Ryanair Cabin Baggage
Priority & 2 Cabin Bags: This allows you to carry a small personal bag (40 x 30 x 20 cm), which must fit under the seat in front of you and a 10kg bag (55x40x20cm) onboard, to be stored in the overhead locker. It also allows you to board the plane first using the Priority Boarding queue at the gate.
Ryanair Checked Baggage
10kg Check-in Bag: If you wish to check in a bag, you can add a 10kg Check-in Bag to your booking. Bags must be dropped at the airport check-in desk before security and will be placed in the aircraft hold.
20kg Check-in Bag: If you require a larger baggage allowance, you can add a 20kg Check-in Bag to your booking. Passengers can purchase up to 3 checked bags of 20kg on their booking.
23kg Check-in Bag: If you require an even larger baggage allowance, you can add a 23kg Check-in Bag to your booking. Passengers can purchase up to 1 checked bags of 23kg on their booking.
Ryanair Infant Baggage
Ryanair allows you to carry 2 items of baby equipment free of charge per child, to make your journey as seamless as possible. There is no cabin bag allowance for an infant (aged 8 days to 23 months inclusive). However, it allows a baby bag up to 5kg (dimensions: 45 x 35 x 20 cm) for babies travelling on an adult’s lap.
Jet2
Passengers flying with Jet2.com can bring a small under-seat bag, like a handbag or laptop bag, up to 40 x 30 x 20 cm, to fit under the seat in front of them.
The airline also confirms: “On all our Jet2.com flights, each passenger has a 10kg hand luggage allowance included as standard (excluding infants). You can also bring one small under-seat bag onboard (such as a handbag or laptop bag) as long as it fits under the seat in front of you.”
Passengers are permitted one free cabin bag, provided it weighs no more than 10kg and measures within 56 x 45 x 25 cm – including wheels and handles. If you are travelling with little ones, “you can bring along a collapsible pushchair, car seat and/or travel cot free of charge.”
British Airways (BA)
Another popular airline, British Airways, confirms that if you have no checked baggage, the following applies.
Handbag
1 handbag
Max dimensions of 40 x 30 x 15cm (16 x 12 x 6in)
Must easily fit under the seat in front of you
May contain essentials like medication, mobile phones, other electronic devices and passports
Guaranteed in the cabin
Cabin bag
1 cabin bag
Max dimensions of 56 x 45 x 25cm (22 x 18 x 10in) – including wheels and handles
You must be able to lift your cabin bag into the overhead compartment unassisted
No valuables, electronics or essential medicines
May need to go in the hold
You can also use the airline’s baggage calculator here. You need to enter your flight details, including your departure and arrival airports, travel class, departure date, and ticket issue date.
It cautions: “The weight of your bag as well as the number of bags you are allowed may be different when travelling on flights operated by our partner airlines, even if you are booked under a BA flight number. These are also called code-share flights, and the operating airline will be named in your itinerary.
“If a journey with connecting flights includes ‘BA’ and other airline codes, such as ‘AA’ or ‘IB’, your baggage allowance is generally determined by the airline that operates the longest flight in your itinerary.”
easyJet
Airline easyJet has confirmed that all passengers “can bring one small under-seat cabin bag per person on board for free.”
It adds: “It can be a maximum size of 45 x 36 x 20 cm (including any handles and wheels) and must be kept under the seat in front of you. Your bag can weigh up to 15kg, but we do ask that you’re able to lift and carry it yourself.”
The airline says passengers can bring a large cabin bag (up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm, including handles and wheels) if they book it for their flight. “Every customer who books a large cabin bag can also enjoy the benefit of Speedy Boarding”, easyJet says.
It continues: “If you’re an easyJet Plus member or customer who has booked an Inclusive Plus fare, you can also bring a large cabin bag on board (in addition to your small cabin bag) as part of your membership or fare benefits.
“Please note that the maximum number of cabin bags available per person is two; one small cabin bag for all customers and one large cabin bag for customers if it’s included with their fare or membership benefits or where they have paid to add one to their booking.”
The large cabin bag must follow these rules:
Maximum size 56 x 45 x 25 cm (including any handles and wheels)
Includes items like a trolley case and larger rucksack, but please check dimensions
Needs to fit in an overhead locker
Maximum weight 15kg. You need to be able to lift and carry the bag yourself
The airline recommends passengers purchase all their bags online, as it’s more economical and helps avoid airport charges.
easyJet said it is an ‘extraordinary circumstance’
13:06, 29 Mar 2026Updated 16:11, 29 Mar 2026
easyJet has apologised to passengers(Image: f9photos via Getty Images)
An easyJet flight was forced to turn back and land shortly after departure today (Sunday, March 29) due to an “extraordinary circumstance”.
easyJet flight EZY439 was scheduled to depart from Glasgow at 11.50am and arrive in Jersey at 1.25pm. However, tracking data on Flightradar appears to show the aircraft turning back almost immediately following take-off. easyJet has confirmed the flight returned to the gate due to an “extraordinary circumstance”. Outlining the diversion on its website, the airline said it is “due to a crew welfare issue”.
easyJet added: “The disruption to your flight is outside of our control and is considered to be an extraordinary circumstance. We plan to refuel and continue your flight as soon as possible. Your crew will keep you up to date.”
easyJet encourages passengers to visit its website for entitlements, refund and compensation rights, and additional information. It added: “Once again we’re very sorry for the delay to your flight.”
An easyJet spokesperson said later on Sunday: “Flight EZY439 from Glasgow to Jersey on 29 March returned to Glasgow due to a cabin crew member requiring medical assistance.
“The flight landed normally in Glasgow and was met by medical services on the ground. We plan for passengers to continue their journey to Jersey later today and apologise for any inconvenience.
“The safety and wellbeing of passengers and crew is always easyJet’s highest priority.”
The new seat will be installed from 2028 on hundreds of easyJet’s new aircraft, providing an extra two inches of improved knee and shin clearance
The new measure will be introduced in a few years(Image: PA)
As budget airlines attempt to cram more and more passengers onto flights, it can feel as if the seat in front edges slightly closer each time you board a plane.
However, a “next generation” economy seat is on the horizon, which its creators claim will provide travellers with additional legroom without compromising space for airlines.
The seat reshapes a passenger’s back, enabling their hips and spine to sit further back on the cushion so their knees and legs gain additional space at the front.
The back is constructed from carbon fibre rather than the traditional moulded plastic, producing a slimmer seat that provides crucial extra inches for the person behind.
A “fixed recline” of 22 degrees naturally shifts the passenger to the most efficient position in the seat, Mirus claims. Customers cannot manually recline the seat to annoy the passenger behind them.
A standard easyJet seat typically provides between 28 and 29 inches of room, meaning anyone who is six foot or taller will touch the seat in front with their knees. Some airlines on longer haul economy flights offer up to 34 inches of space.
“We’ve always had very comfortable leg room in easyJet,” said Kenton Jarvis, the airline’s chief executive. “This product is exceptionally comfortable, exceptionally light and allows a configuration that creates more space for the customer in the cabin.”
He explained easyJet wouldn’t be retrofitting any of its estimated 350 aircraft, stating: “There’s an expense to ripping off perfectly good seats and putting in and buying new ones.” The seats will instead appear in new orders of the Airbus A320neo and A321neo from 2028.
Research conducted this year by consumer group Which identified the short-haul carriers offering the tightest economy-class seat layout, or pitch, as Jet2, KLM, Lufthansa, Ryanair, SAS, TAP Air Portugal, Vueling and Wizz Air. All featured at least some seats with a 28-inch pitch.
The group noted that seat comfort also hinged on quality factors such as padding. By that measure, easyJet’s current seats achieved two out of five.
David Morgan, easyJet’s chief operating officer, commented: “We are delighted to be introducing the Mirus Kestrel seat across our future fleet.
“On top of the sustainability benefits, the additional legroom and enhanced comfort these seats will provide will also deliver an improved onboard experience for our customers, which we know they’ll love.”
EASYJET has launched a huge sale with millions of seats on offer for winter 2027 including the February half-term.
The budget airline’s Big Seat Release has over seven million seats on flights to and from the UK on sale for between February 1 and March 21, 2027.
Sign up for the Travel newsletter
Thank you!
EasyJet has launched its Big Seat Release for winter 2027Credit: GettyDestinations include Agadir in Morocco, which was recently named the most affordable break for this summerCredit: Love holidays
Travellers can choose from over 140 destinations across Europe and North Africa from 22 UK airports.
Flight offers include one-way flights to Paris from London Gatwick, costing £31.99 on February 2, 2027.
You could also travel to Dusseldorf in Germany, Geneva in Switzerland, and Grenoble and Nantes in France for the same price.
If you fancy travelling further afield, you could fly to Agadir in Morocco from London Gatwick on February 23, 2027, for £37.99 one-way.
Agadir was recently named the most affordable break for summer 2026 by loveholidays, with a week holiday to the seaside city costing as little as £24 per person per night between June and August.
The Moroccan city is surrounded by mountains and also boasts a six-mile long golden beach.
Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey recently visited the city and said: “The Moroccan city is home to the country’s largest market, Souk El Had, as well as a bustling harbour and modern marina.
“Rebuilt following a devastating earthquake in 1960, the sprawling city nestles against the Atlantic Ocean and its palm-lined wide roads feel more Miami than Morocco.”
Other bucket-list destinations include Reykjavik in Iceland, with flights costing from £44.17 per way and Thessaloniki in Greece, costing from £48.99 per way.
To find easyJet‘s lowest fares, head to the low fare finder section of the easyJet website where the best value fares are shown.
EasyJet holidays also has thousands of package holidays available, including to destinations such as the Canary Islands, Morocco and Tunisia.
All of the holiday packages include flights and a hotel, with a 23kg luggage allowance and transfers for beach getaways.
Kevin Doyle, UK Country Manager for easyJet, said: “Putting millions more seats and package holidays on sale today for nextwinter means our customers across the UK can book early and enjoy great value to Europe’s most popular leisure destinations, including firm favourites such as Amsterdam, Paris, Alicante, Tenerife, and Malaga.
“With hundreds of routes available from 22 UK airports, our short-haul network offers unrivalled choice for those planning their holidays for next year, to book with ease, and we can’t wait to welcome them on board.”
The Mirus website states: “Designed for airlines operating short to medium-range flights of around 5 hours in standard specification, but available in ‘Enhanced Comfort’ specification to comfortably open up longer routes — the Kestrel transforms travel for passengers through unbeatable levels of legroom.”
They’re set to be rolled out across the Airbus A320neo and A321neo fleet in 2028.
David Morgan, chief operating officer, said: “The additional legroom and enhanced comfort these seats will provide will also deliver an improved onboard experience for our customers which we know they’ll love.”
GREGGS sausage rolls are seriously taking off — as easyJet is serving free ones on board for the first time.
The budget airline is dishing out the popular flaky pastries to mark the opening of a base in the heart of Greggs country.
Sign up for the Travel newsletter
Thank you!
easyJet is serving free Greggs on board flights for the first timeCredit: PAThe collaboration celebrates the launch of easyJet’s new hub at Newcastle International AirportCredit: PA
And passengers can dip them in a range of new sauces inspired by destinations around the world, including kebab.
The collaboration celebrates the launch of easyJet’s new hub at Newcastle International Airport — 75 years after Greggs’ first shop was opened in the city.
Holidaymakers flying from there yesterday were treated to a free sausage roll, and all week punters can scoff one from a special easyJet service landing in the city centre.
They will also be offered limited-edition dips, such as Turkish-style kebab, with aromatic choices of lemon, vinegar and smoky paprika.
There is also Tunisian– inspired harissa ketchup, or Italy’s silky affogato flavour, with hints of deep-roasted coffee, cocoa and vanilla.
Flyers tucked into their favourites yesterday.
Easyjet’s new Tyneside base is the airline’s 11th in the UK, and will offer more than 80 flights a week to 22 destinations.
It will also support around 1,200 jobs, including 140 direct roles for pilots and cabin crew.
Garry Wilson, CEO for its holidays business, said: “This is a major milestone for us, so partnering with Greggs, a true Geordie icon and one of the city’s most famous exports, felt like the perfect way to celebrate our arrival.”
Greggs director Hannah Squirrell added: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the local community, and we can’t think of a better way to celebrate than with a sausage roll.”
John Gregg founded the bakery in Newcastle in 1939, and its first outlet opened in the city’s Gosforth in 1951.
There will also be limited-edition dips, such as Turkish-style kebab, servedCredit: PA
At the moment, most UK airlines won’t be affected because of hedging – essentially a fixed price for oil – which is keeping prices stable.
Depending on the length of time that the Iran conflict continues and if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, there could be price hikes in the coming months.
This in turn will see airlines having to put up their fares for passengers.
Mr Jarvis said that he expects easyJet to be “good for three weeks.”
Meanwhile, Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary said that he doesn’t expect disruption as long as the ongoing conflict ends “in the next month or two.”
Unlike these airlines, US carriers aren’t hedged which has resulted in the rise in fare prices already.
Willie Walsh, director general of the International Air Transport Association (IAG) who owns British Airways, explained that fares across the North Atlantic are set to jump up.
Talking more on the issue, he said that due to the price increase of US airlines, “competitors at the other end will match the price increase. It’s the nature of the industry.”
Some airlines have already put the price of their fares up, or are preparing to.
AirAsia said it would temporarily raise ticket prices but said it would be revising fares at a later date.
Thai Airways said it expects tickets to go up by 10 – 15 per cent, while Qantas also said it would increase prices depending on the route.
And Scandinavian airline SAS has introduced a “temporary price adjustment”.
Air New Zealand has increased prices of its flights in response to rising fuel costs as well.
Domestic flights were going up by $10 (£4.37) one way, short haul by $20 (£8.74), and long haul $90 (£39.35).
If you’re looking for destinations for a May half-term break that are perfect for families and not too far away, then this island often compared to the Caribbean could be one for your shortlist
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
The island has been nicknamed the ‘Caribbean of Europe’(Image: Getty Images)
Finding the perfect family holiday destination can be tricky. You want somewhere with amazing beaches and natural beauty, but at the same time, you need to be practical and ensure you pick somewhere easy to travel to and in your budget.
Recently, easyJet released a new Family Holiday Index, its way of ranking the top holiday destinations for people travelling with children based on a number of factors. These include the logistics of travelling to the destination, beach and water access, cost, and the number of family activities on offer.
Using this information, it was able to compile a top ten ranking of family holiday destinations, and unsurprisingly, Spanish destinations took six out of the ten spots. However, ranking at number six was an Italian island that has been dubbed the ‘Caribbean of Europe’ thanks to its spectacular beaches and unspoilt scenery.
Sardinia scored highly as a family destination thanks to its huge selection of beaches, family activities, and easy accessibility from the UK. The island has two main air hubs: Cagliari Elmas Airport in the south which is the largest and Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport in the north which is popular in the summer. EasyJet offers seasonal services to Olbia from Bristol, Edinburgh, London-Gatwick, and London-Luton. If you’re planning to fly to Cagliari from the UK, there are routes available on Ryanair and British Airways.
Sardinia flights on easyJet start from just £35.60 one way in May, and flights to the island take from two-and-a-half to three hours, making them bearable for most kids. You can also book Sardinia holidays with easyJet Holidays, with a package for four staying in a quadruple room in Borgo di Campagna, departing May 8, coming in at £340 per person. You can also save another £100 off the total package cost by using code SPRINGSALE at checkout.
Spiaggia La Pelosa is considered one of the island’s best beaches and it’s perfect for families. Its shores are covered in soft white sand, although some of the scenery is a little rocky, and the sea is a vibrant shade of turquoise and usually has only gentle waves. You can walk far from shore and still only be up to your knees in the clear blue waters, so it’s perfect for kids who like to paddle and splash around.
Unlike many overcrowded beaches, access to La Pelosa is tightly controlled during the summer from June 1 and October 1. Visitors need to book a spot in advance, and there’s an entry fee of €3.50 per person for over 12s (just over £3). However, this ensures you aren’t fighting the crowds to find a spot.
The Costa Smeralda offers a choice of beaches along a 35-mile stretch of coast in the north-east of the island. It’s a glamorous spot where you’ll often see superyachts coming into dock, and here you’ll find lots of upscale resorts with fine dining and designer shops.
Kids who love to swim will enjoy a boat trip to La Maddalena Archipelago, a National Park made up of seven tiny islands that can only be reached via boat. Many tour operators offer full-day boat tours where you can visit multiple islands, as well as stopping in the middle of the turquoise Med so you can dive straight into the ocean for a swim or snorkel.
If you have a kid who’s a budding history buff then Sardinia is full of interesting ancient sites to explore. Su Nuraxi di Barumini is the remains of a Bronze Age defensive complex, and has structures dating back thousands of years. Cagliari’s Castello sits on top of a hill and is full of ancient buildings, museums, and historic sites.
Kids who are studying the Roman Empire in school will particularly love a tour of the Roman Amphitheatre of Cagliari, where they can hear gory tales of fights to the death between gladiators or men vs wild beasts. It was also where many public executions were carried out and became the most important buildings in ancient Cagliari.
Sardinian food is also generally kid-friendly and even picky eaters are likely to find something they like. During the day, look out for street food vendors selling Spianadina, traditional flatbreads often filled with cheese and ham for a simple lunch. In the evening, there are plenty of cosy, authentic restaurants to choose from where kids can enjoy wood-fired pizza and fresh pasta.
EasyJet and easyJet Holidays Family Holiday Index – Full rankings
Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Algarve (Faro), Portugal
Costa del Sol (Málaga), Spain
Costa Blanca (Alicante), Spain
Lanzarote, Spain
Sardinia, Italy
Crete, Greece
Ibiza, Spain
Barcelona Coast, Spain
Dubrovnik Coast, Croatia
Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com
People check in at an Easyjet check in counter(Image: TkKurikawa via Getty Images)
Jetting off overseas is often an exciting time, with the promise of fresh surroundings and experiencing a different culture. But as the cost of living crisis rolls out, many Brits are finding it increasingly difficult to locate a getaway that won’t drain their finances.
Depending on your flexibility with dates, bargain flight offers do occasionally crop up. However, you’ll frequently face substantial charges if you want to bring anything beyond a compact carry-on bag. And there are also restrictions on the amount of luggage you’re permitted to take.
It might also be that while one person in your party travels light, others decidedly don’t. In such situations, you may want to ‘share’ your baggage allowance – by allowing another passenger to use some of yours. But is this actually allowed?
Ryanair and easyJet have clarified their policies regarding passengers sharing baggage allowances with fellow travellers in their party. Ryanair said on its website: “Bag pooling is allowed between passengers with check-in bags on the same flight reservation.
“This means that if you have two 20kg Check-in Bags (40kg total) on your booking, one of those bags could weigh 15kg whilst the other weighs 25kg. However, no bag can weigh more than 32kg.”
easyJet adopts a similar approach, as its guidelines state: “If you’re travelling with family or friends on the same flight and booking, you can pool your total weight allowance. This means that the total weight allowance can be split among the total number of bags booked, as long as no single item weighs more than 32kg. Maximum total size (length + width + height) = under 275cm.”
Ryanair customers who have opted for a basic fare are permitted to bring a small bag at no additional cost. The bag must fit under the seat in front of you and not exceed dimensions of 40 x 30 x 20 cm.
Larger bags can set you back anywhere between £12 and £80.99 per flight, depending on the size and the chosen route. It’s always more cost-effective to book these online rather than at the airport.
easyJet allows all passengers to bring one small under-seat cabin bag on board free of charge. This must not exceed dimensions of 45 x 36 x 20 cm, including any wheels or handles.
The cost for larger bags varies, but as with Ryanair, it’s always cheaper to add these online rather than at the airport.
