Flying with Norse - a budget transatlantic airline

If you're planning a transatlantic trip and looking for a budget-friendly option, you've probably come across Norse Atlantic Airways. Known for offering low-cost flights across the pond, I recently took the plunge and booked with them for a trip from London to Orlando. Let me tell you—it was better than I expected!

Comfortable, No-Frills Experience

Despite the budget airline tag, I found the overall experience really comfortable. The seats were standard economy, but not cramped at all. I am also on the short side and my feet actually touched the floor - huge win for me! There was a decent amount of legroom, and the cabin crew were polite and attentive throughout the flight.

Be Prepared to Pay for Extras

As with most budget airlines, you'll want to be prepared to pay for any extras. Drinks, snacks, and meals are not included in the base ticket price, so if you're a fan of inflight coffee or a glass of wine, you'll need to budget for that. You can, however, select a ticket that provides one meal and one soft drink, I did choose this option and the food was fine. If you book premium economy, you do get 2 meals on this flight.

While the food and drinks were decent quality, the prices can add up. My advice? Bring your own snacks and a refillable water bottle (once you've passed security). It’s a simple way to save a few pounds.

Luggage Allowance: Generous but Strict

One area where Norse impressed me was with their luggage allowance. The airline offers a more generous baggage policy compared to some of its budget counterparts. I could bring a personal item and a cabin bag without paying extra, which is a relief for long-haul travel.

However, they are strict about the rules, so make sure to check your luggage dimensions and weight before heading to the airport. I saw a few passengers get caught out at check-in because their bags were slightly oversized or overweight. Avoid this hassle by double-checking beforehand.



Entertainment? Bring Your Own Headphones!

Norse offers inflight entertainment, but there's a catch. If you want to watch movies or shows on their system, you'll need your own pluggable headphones or a Bluetooth jack. I made the mistake of forgetting mine and ended up buying a pair onboard for £6.50. Not the end of the world, but if you’d rather avoid the extra cost, pack your own!

Pro tip: Their system uses a standard 3.5mm jack, so any old pair of headphones will do. If you prefer wireless, make sure your Bluetooth device can connect via a jack to avoid any tech mishaps.

Would I fly Norse again for a transatlantic flight? Absolutely! The flight was affordable, relatively comfortable, and although I had to pay for a few extras, it still worked out much cheaper than flying with traditional carriers.

If you're looking for an economical way to cross the Atlantic, Norse is definitely worth considering. Just remember to pack your own snacks, headphones, and keep your luggage within the limits to avoid any extra charges. Happy travels!