- Mr Plane Guy
- 7 days ago
- 9 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
What I Wish I’d Known Before Flying Norse Atlantic Airways
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Norse Atlantic Airways is one of those airlines you end up Googling before booking. The fares look brilliant on paper, London to New York for less than the price of dinner and drinks in Soho, but then the questions start. What’s it actually like on board? Is premium worth it? Why is it so cheap?
I’ve flown Norse in both economy and premium, and my verdict is simple: economy is good value if you know how to play it, premium isn’t really worth the extra, and there are a few small tricks that will massively improve your experience.
Here’s everything I wish I’d known before flying Norse Atlantic Airways.
Who are Norse Atlantic Airways?
Norse Atlantic is a low-cost, long-haul airline based in Norway. They fly a consistent fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners, which is something I rate highly. Unlike some airlines, you don’t need to worry about being put on an old aircraft last minute. It’s always the 787, which means modern cabins, better air quality, quieter engines, and a generally smoother ride.
Why is Norse Airlines So Cheap?
The cheap prices are down to the low-cost model. You start with a seat, and then add everything else: luggage, meals, seat selection, headphones, blankets. If you just want the lowest possible fare, you can travel with only a personal item under the seat and no extras. But most people will end up paying for at least a bag and a seat assignment, and that’s where the cost creeps up.
The trick is being smart about what you pay for in advance, and what you can bring yourself. Bags at the airport are far more expensive than booking them online. Food on board is nothing special, so you’re better off buying snacks before you fly. And you definitely don’t need to splash out on premium thinking it’s a proper upgrade, because it isn’t.
Booking and Baggage Rules
Norse is strict on baggage. If your case is even slightly oversized or overweight, you’ll be charged. It’s not worth the risk.
Cabin bag: They check the dimensions carefully. Invest in a bag that’s designed for low-cost airlines. I recommend the Cabin Max Anode it’s built to fit within Norse’s rules, lightweight, and still manages to pack in a decent amount. It’s the bag I trust for every low-cost flight.
Checked bag: Buy it online before your flight. Do not leave it until the airport unless you enjoy unnecessary charges.
Personal item: A small backpack that goes under the seat is included.
Top Tip: Always weigh your luggage before you leave home.
My go-to personal item is the Cabin Max Metz 20L it’s comfy, compact, and fits every time.
Cabin Max METZ 20L Underseat Bag (40 x 20 x 25 cm)
Now this bag actually fits Ryanair and Wizz Air that have stricter and smaller free personal baggage allowance you can get the bigger option 30L 45 x 36 x 20 cm to fly with Norse airlines.
You can find more information about this bag Right Here
The Cabin Max METZ 20L is my go-to under seat bag for Norse flights. It’s perfectly sized for Norse airlines free personal item allowance and comes packed with features:
Lightweight and Durable:Weighs only 500g, making it easy to carry around even when fully packed.
Comfortable for Travel: Extensive padding ensures comfort, whether you’re navigating airports or exploring your destination.
Organised Storage: Multiple compartments, including a front organiser pocket for travel documents, pens, and tickets, make staying organised a breeze.
Eco-Friendly: Made from recycled plastic bottles (Rpet polyester), it’s a sustainable choice for eco-conscious travellers.
This bag is also compatible with most major airlines, making it a versatile travel companion beyond Norse.
It comes in so many different colour options
Top Tip: Use a soft-sided holdall or backpack like the Cabin Max Metz 30L (45 x 36 x 20 cm). These can be slightly compressed if needed by pulling in the straps at the side.
Recommended Carry-On Bags That Meet Norse’s Rules
1. Cabin Max Anode 40L Trolley Case
Exact fit for Norse (56 x 45 x 25 cm)
Lightweight with 360° wheels
Ideal for trips up to 7 days
For a full guide to taking luggage on Norse Atlantic Airways, check out this post,
Check it out HERE
It is so light weight, it has 360 spinning wheels so I can push or pull it around the airport and place my small undereat bag on top of it. It has a well made lock to keep all my items secure. For the price as well it is excellent quality!
For those who need more space, the Cabin Max Anode 40L is a fantastic option.
Spacious and Lightweight: Perfect for trips up to 7 days, with enough room for clothing, toiletries, and extras.
Durable and Stylish: Available in various colours, so you can travel in style.
It's also a perfect fit for Ryanair Priority: No worries about your bag arriving separately, as you can keep it with you.
It comes in so many colours!
Top Tip: I put an AirTag in my suitcase, I was able to check that my had arrived at the aircraft and is such good peace of mind!
Norse Atlantic Airways Economy Review
Seats and Comfort
Economy is absolutely fine for the price. The standard seats are what you’d expect from a low-cost airline, but the 787 makes a difference, it feels fresher and more spacious than some older planes.
If you can, pay for extra legroom. On a 7+ hour flight it makes a big difference and costs far less than upgrading to premium.
Check out this pillow/blanket combo perfect for travelling with Norse Atlantic Airways
This is also where bringing your own travel gear pays off:
A memory foam neck pillow (not inflatable) makes sleeping so much easier.
A lightweight travel blanket is far better than anything you’ll buy onboard.
An eye mask and earplugs are small but essential.
With these, economy becomes much more bearable, in fact, I’d argue more comfortable than Norse’s premium cabin.
Food and Drinks
You can pre-order meals, but honestly, they’re not great. I recommend eating in the terminal before you board,(Check out my Airport lOunge deal landing below shortly!) then bringing a few snacks with you. Drinks are available to buy on board, but expect higher prices than the airport.
Tip: Norse doesn’t provide free headphones, so bring your own or purchase onboard.
Onboard Food & Drinks
Norse operates a buy-on-board menu with hot meals, snacks, and drinks. I was tempted by the Thai green curry but ultimately decided to save my money for the destination.
If you’d rather plan ahead, pre-ordering a meal before your flight costs £25 (with lighter meals available for £17). Vegetarians and those with dietary needs should bring snacks, as options are limited.
Entertainment
The in-flight entertainment system is okay. It has enough films and TV to get you across the Atlantic. But there’s no Wi-Fi, so make sure to download anything important to your phone or tablet before flying.
Check out this genius product that allows you to use your Airpods with the inflight entertainment on norse Airlines and many other airlines!
Overall Economy Verdict
If you book smartly and keep expectations realistic, Norse economy is a good deal. Think of it as a no-frills way of getting across the Atlantic comfortably, as long as you bring your own extras.
Norse Atlantic Premium Economy Review
Premium economy sounds like an upgrade, but it’s not really.
What You Get
A wider seat with more legroom.
Extra luggage allowance.
Priority boarding.
A meal and drink included.
What You Don’t Get
Any real difference in service compared to economy.
Significantly better food.
The “premium” feel you’d expect from other airlines.
It’s basically economy with a better seat and luggage allowance. That’s it.
Verdit
Unless you need the extra baggage, I wouldn’t book premium. The seat is nice, but you can get most of the same comfort by booking an economy seat with extra legroom and bringing your own travel kit and using an airport lounge at the airport using a priority pass to gain access, check out my amazing deal below!
Norse Atlantic “Business Class”
A quick note because people often search for “Norse Atlantic review business class”. Norse doesn’t have a business class. Some people confuse premium with business, but it’s not the same thing at all. If you’re expecting flatbeds, champagne, or lounge access included, you won’t find it here.
Lounge Access: The Better Upgrade
Want to feel like you’re flying premium without wasting money on Norse Premium? Go for lounge access instead.
At Gatwick South Terminal, I recommend:
No1 Lounge – relaxed, plenty of food and drinks.
Clubrooms – quieter, with table service.
Top Tip: Get a Priority Pass membership. With my 30% discount code, you’ll pay around £24 for lounge entry. That’s unlimited food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and a comfortable place to wait before boarding. This is what premium should feel like and it costs a fraction of the upgrade price.
Priority Pass gives you access to over 1,700+ airport lounges around the world and I’ve secured a 30% discount just for my readers.
Normally £69/year
With my code: just £48
Includes food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and comfy seats far from the gate chaos
Check out the Gatwick Airport Lounges
How about getting into Gatwick Airport Lounges at a reduced rate?
Exclusive Offer: I was kindly given a 30% off LINK for a Priority Pass, to share with you.
Norse Atlantic Airways Safety Record
Another popular search is “Norse Atlantic Airways safety record”. The short answer: they’re safe.
They fly a modern fleet of Boeing 787s.
They’re regulated by European and UK aviation authorities.
Their safety record so far is completely clean.
Nothing to worry about here.
Pros and Cons of Flying Norse Atlantic Airways
Pros
Very low base fares.
Consistent fleet of Boeing 787s.
Friendly crew.
Economy with extra legroom is excellent value.
Cons
Premium isn’t worth the price.
Food is average and expensive.
Strict baggage rules.
No Wi-Fi onboard.
Final Boarding Call
So, should you fly Norse Atlantic Airways? Yes, but do it smartly.
Book economy with extra legroom instead of premium.
Bring your own travel blanket, pillow, and eye mask.
Use a Cabin Max bag to avoid baggage fees.
Skip the onboard food and invest in lounge access instead.
If you go in expecting a budget airline with a decent product, you’ll be pleasantly surprised. If you expect premium or business-class service for the price of a low-cost fare, you’ll be disappointed. Of course you can find more details over at FlyNorse.com.
For me, the winning formula is simple: economy seat, extra legroom, Priority Pass lounge, and my own travel kit. That way you get comfort, value, and still save money compared to legacy airlines.
Check out this pillow/blanket combo perfect for travelling with Norse Atlantic Airways
For a budget-friendly long-haul experience, Norse Atlantic Airways Economy is a solid choice. Want to fly in more comfort? Try Bid for Upgrade to enjoy a Premium seat without breaking the bank!
Happy travels!
Check out Norse Cheap flights HERE
Related Links
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Norse Atlantic Airways Review of Premium
AMAZING Norse Atlantic Airways Carry-On Luggage Bag Rules change!
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What are my rights if I am delayed or my Norse Atlantic Airways flight is cancelled? Check out this delay guide
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Hello I’m Paul a travel and flight expert, I spent most of my career working in and around planes with 15 years providing top-notch service with a London-based airline.
I became an expert in travel after soaring across the Atlantic up to 10 times a month!
I’m now, producing travel content, reaching millions of viewers monthly. Reporting on travel news, sharing travel tips, reviews, and deals with a sprinkle of humour and a whole lot of authenticity!
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