Whether you’re planning an abroad trip to London, or Oxford, or even Edinburgh, you’ll need to get there by flight. For most people looking to travel to the UK, London Heathrow is the airport many flights lead into. If you’re planning book a flight into the UK, there are several airlines to choose from, and prices vary depending on the season.
In this article, we’ll explore the top three airlines to travel to London, and the average prices of round trip flights during each season. We’ll also provide a list of tips for flying abroad to help make your trip as smooth as possible.
Read on for your step-by-step guide to booking flights to the UK!
Top Airlines to Travel to London
British Airways
British Airways is the flagship carrier of the United Kingdom and is one of the largest airlines in the world. The airline operates daily flights from major cities in the US to London, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco. British Airways is known for its excellent customer service, and passengers can enjoy amenities such as in-flight entertainment, Wi-Fi, and complimentary meals and beverages.
Virgin Atlantic
Virgin Atlantic is a British airline that operates flights to London from several major US cities, including New York, Miami, and Los Angeles. The airline offers a range of classes, including economy, premium economy, and Upper Class, which is their version of business class. Passengers can enjoy in-flight entertainment, Wi-Fi, and complimentary meals and beverages, as well as access to the airline’s exclusive airport lounges.
Delta Airlines
Delta Airlines is a major US airline that operates flights to London from several major cities, including New York, Boston, and Atlanta. The airline is known for its excellent customer service and offers a range of classes, including economy, premium economy, and Delta One, which is their version of business class. Passengers can enjoy in-flight entertainment, Wi-Fi, and complimentary meals and beverages.
United Airlines
United Airlines is also a popular airline that offers flights from the US to London. It has a comprehensive network of flights, and its partnership with other airlines allows for connecting flights to London from many US cities. United Airlines also offers a range of cabin classes, including Economy, Economy Plus, Business, and First Class, providing passengers with a variety of options to suit their travel needs and budget. It’s definitely worth considering United Airlines when booking a flight to London from the US.
Average Pricing (Round Trip)
The prices of flights to London vary depending on the season. Generally, the peak travel season is from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. The shoulder season is from April to May and September to October when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. The low season is from November to March when the weather is colder, and there are fewer tourists. Here are the average prices of round trip flights to London during each season:
Peak Season: June to August
During the peak season, round trip flights to London can range from $800 to $1,500, depending on the departure city and airline. Prices tend to be higher during the months of July and August when many families are traveling for summer vacations.
Shoulder Season: April to May and September to October
During the shoulder season, round trip flights to London can range from $500 to $1,000, depending on the departure city and airline. Prices tend to be higher during the months of April and May when the weather is milder and the crowds are smaller.
- Personal Experience: When I visited the UK, I stayed for the month of September. Prices were starting to come down from August, so the flights ended up between $1200-1300. However, the weather was absolutely perfect during this time, so if you don’t mind the mid-range prices, I wholly recommend a trip to the UK around September/October!
Low Season: November to March
During the low season, round trip flights to London can range from $400 to $800, depending on the departure city and airline. Prices tend to be higher during the weeks leading up to Christmas and New Year’s Eve when many people are traveling for the holidays.
Step-by-Step Guide to Booking Your UK Flight
Determine your travel dates and destination
Decide on your travel dates and destination in the UK. This will help you search for available flights that match your travel plans.
Search for flights
Use a search engine like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak to search for flights to the UK. Enter your travel dates, destination, and the number of passengers, and the search engine will provide a list of available flights. You can also check your preferred/trusted airlines to see if they offer the flight you’re looking for!
Compare prices and airlines
Compare the prices and airlines that come up in your search results. Consider factors such as flight duration, layovers, and airline reputation when making your decision. Look out for any additional fees that may be charged, such as baggage fees or seat selection fees.
Select your flight
Once you’ve found a flight that matches your travel plans and budget, select it and proceed to book your flight. You’ll need to enter your personal details, including your name, passport information, and contact details.
Choose your seat
Choose your seat preference, if applicable. Some airlines allow you to select your seat at the time of booking, while others may charge extra for this.
Add any extras
Add any additional extras to your booking, such as checked baggage or in-flight meals, if needed.
Review and confirm your booking
Review the details of your booking and ensure that everything is correct before confirming your booking. Make sure to read the terms and conditions carefully, as they may include important information such as cancellation policies or refund procedures.
Pay for your flight
Pay for your flight using a credit card or other accepted payment method. Once your payment has been processed, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your flight details and itinerary.
Wait impatiently
Eagerly await your upcoming trip, and perhaps add a countdown to your phone’s lock or home screen!
Tips for Flying Abroad
Flying abroad can be an exciting experience, but it can also be stressful, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. Here are some tips to help make your trip as smooth as possible:
Research visa requirements
Before you book your flight, research the visa requirements for the country you’re traveling to. Some countries require visas for US citizens, while others do not. It’s important to know what you need to enter the country and to apply for a visa well in advance if necessary. Check the US Department of State’s website for up-to-date information on visa requirements.
Book your flight in advance
Booking your flight in advance can save you money and give you more options for flight times and airlines. Generally, it’s best to book your flight at least three to four months in advance for international travel.
Pack smart
When flying abroad, it’s important to pack smart and pack light. Check the airline’s baggage policy before you pack and make sure you adhere to any size and weight restrictions. It’s also a good idea to pack a change of clothes and any essential items in your carry-on in case your checked baggage is lost or delayed.
Arrive early at the airport
International flights often require more time for check-in and security screening than domestic flights. It’s recommended to arrive at the airport at least three hours before your flight to allow for enough time to check-in, go through security, and get to your gate.
Bring travel documents
Make sure to bring all necessary travel documents with you, including your passport, visa (if required), and any other documentation required for entry into the country you’re traveling to. Keep these documents in a safe place and easily accessible, such as a travel wallet or pouch.
Stay connected
Make sure to have your phone set up for international roaming or purchase a local SIM card when you arrive at your destination. Having access to the internet and being able to make calls can be essential in case of an emergency or if you need to contact someone while traveling.
Be prepared for jet lag
Traveling to a different time zone can cause jet lag, which can affect your sleep patterns and energy levels. To minimize the effects of jet lag, try to adjust your sleep schedule before you travel, stay hydrated during the flight, and try to get some sleep on the plane.
In Conclusion
To book a flight to London from the US can be a straightforward process, with several airlines offering daily flights to the city. British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines are among the top airlines to travel with, offering excellent customer service, in-flight amenities, and a range of classes to choose from. Prices for flights to London vary depending on the season, with the peak season being from June to August, the shoulder season from April to May and September to October, and the low season from November to March.
By following these tips for flying abroad, you can make your trip to the UK as smooth and stress-free as possible, allowing you to focus on enjoying all that this fantastic city has to offer.
