Wizz Air London To Istanbul: My Honest Review

Hey guys! Planning a trip from London to Istanbul and considering Wizz Air? I recently took this flight and wanted to share my honest review to help you decide. So, buckle up and let's dive into the nitty-gritty details of my Wizz Air experience from London to Istanbul. This review covers everything from booking to baggage, comfort to customer service, ensuring you have all the info you need for a smooth journey. Let's explore the pros and cons, highlighting key aspects that can make or break your travel plans. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of what to expect when flying Wizz Air on this route, helping you make an informed decision. So, grab a cup of coffee, and let's get started!

Booking and Price

Let's talk about booking and price – because, let's face it, that's often the deciding factor, right? Wizz Air is known for its budget-friendly fares, and I definitely snagged a good deal when I booked my London to Istanbul flight. The initial price was super attractive, which is what drew me to Wizz Air in the first place. However, it's crucial to pay close attention to the extras. Like many budget airlines, Wizz Air's base fare only covers the essentials – a seat and a small personal item. Anything beyond that, you'll need to pay extra for.

I quickly realized that things like checked baggage, seat selection, and even bringing a larger cabin bag would add to the cost. These add-ons can significantly increase the overall price, so it's worth doing the math to see if it still makes sense compared to other airlines. The booking process itself was straightforward on the Wizz Air website. It’s relatively easy to navigate, and I didn’t encounter any major issues. However, be prepared for a few upsells along the way. They'll try to tempt you with various packages and services, so make sure you're only selecting what you actually need. All in all, if you're looking for a cheap flight and you're willing to travel light and forgo some extras, Wizz Air can be a great option. Just be sure to factor in all the potential additional costs before making a final decision. Keep an eye out for promotional periods or special discounts, as these can offer even better deals. Planning ahead and booking in advance also tends to yield lower fares, so it’s worth getting organized early.

Baggage Allowance and Fees

Okay, let's get real about baggage allowance and those sneaky fees! With Wizz Air, understanding their baggage policy is absolutely crucial to avoid any surprises at the airport. The basic fare usually includes only a small personal item that must fit under the seat in front of you. Think a small backpack or a laptop bag – nothing too bulky. If you need to bring a larger cabin bag or checked luggage, you'll have to pay extra. And trust me, those fees can add up quickly! I learned this the hard way when I underestimated the size of my carry-on.

It's really important to check the exact dimensions and weight restrictions on the Wizz Air website before you pack. They are quite strict, and you don't want to be caught off guard at the gate. Paying for baggage online in advance is almost always cheaper than paying at the airport, so it's definitely worth planning ahead. Consider purchasing a Wizz Priority add-on, which allows you to bring a larger cabin bag and board the plane earlier. This can save you both money and hassle. If you’re traveling with a lot of stuff, carefully weigh your options: compare the cost of adding checked baggage to potentially shipping your belongings separately. Sometimes, shipping can be more cost-effective, especially for longer trips. Remember, being well-prepared and informed about Wizz Air's baggage policy can save you from unexpected expenses and make your travel experience much smoother. So, do your homework, pack smart, and avoid those dreaded baggage fees!

The Flight Experience

Alright, let's talk about the actual flight experience from London to Istanbul with Wizz Air. Honestly, it was pretty much what you'd expect from a budget airline. The plane itself was clean and relatively modern, which was a definite plus. However, legroom was a bit tight, especially on a longer flight like this one. If you're tall or just prefer a bit more space, you might want to consider paying extra for a seat with more legroom. The seats were fairly basic, not the most comfortable, but adequate for the duration of the flight.

There wasn't any complimentary food or drinks, so make sure to bring your own snacks and beverages, or be prepared to purchase them onboard. The in-flight entertainment was limited – basically, just the Wizz Air magazine. So, download some movies or shows on your tablet or phone before you fly to keep yourself entertained. The crew were generally friendly and efficient, though not overly attentive. They did their job well and ensured everyone was safe and comfortable. Overall, the flight experience was pretty standard for a budget airline. Nothing particularly amazing, but nothing terrible either. Just be prepared for a no-frills experience and bring your own entertainment and refreshments. If you go in with realistic expectations, you'll likely have a perfectly acceptable flight. Pro-tip: a good travel pillow can make a big difference in comfort on a long flight, especially with limited recline.

Customer Service

Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty of Wizz Air's customer service. Honestly, this is where things can get a bit dicey. Many people have had mixed experiences with their customer service, and I can see why. Reaching them can be a challenge in itself. The phone lines often have long wait times, and getting a response via email can take days, if not weeks. When I did manage to get in touch with them, the representatives were polite enough, but not always the most helpful. It felt like they were reading from a script and weren't always empowered to resolve issues effectively.

If you encounter any problems with your flight, such as cancellations or delays, be prepared for a bit of a battle to get compensation or rebooking assistance. It's essential to document everything and be persistent in your communication. However, it's not all doom and gloom. Some people have had positive experiences with Wizz Air's customer service, especially when dealing with minor issues. It seems to depend on the specific situation and the representative you speak with. Overall, it's best to go in with realistic expectations and be prepared to advocate for yourself if you encounter any problems. Having all your booking information readily available and being clear about your issue can also help expedite the process. Pro-tip: Check online forums and social media groups for tips and advice from other Wizz Air passengers who may have experienced similar issues.

Overall Impression and Recommendation

So, what's my overall impression of flying Wizz Air from London to Istanbul? And would I recommend it? Well, it's a mixed bag, to be honest. If you're on a tight budget and willing to forgo some comfort and convenience, Wizz Air can be a decent option. The initial fares are often very attractive, and if you travel light and don't need any extras, you can snag a really good deal. However, it's crucial to factor in all the potential additional costs, such as baggage fees, seat selection, and onboard purchases. These can quickly add up and make the overall price comparable to other airlines that offer a more inclusive service. The flight experience itself is pretty basic. Don't expect any frills or luxuries. Legroom is tight, and there's no complimentary food or entertainment. But if you come prepared with your own snacks and entertainment, you'll be fine.

The biggest downside, in my opinion, is the customer service. It can be challenging to reach them, and resolving issues can be a hassle. So, if you're the type of traveler who values reliable customer support, you might want to consider other options. Overall, I'd say Wizz Air is worth considering if price is your top priority and you're willing to accept a no-frills experience. Just be sure to do your research, read the fine print, and be prepared for potential challenges along the way. Would I fly with them again? Maybe, if the price was right. But I'd definitely go in with my eyes wide open and a healthy dose of patience. Ultimately, the decision depends on your individual needs and priorities. Consider what's most important to you – price, comfort, service – and weigh the pros and cons accordingly. Safe travels, guys!