Everything You Need to Know About TUI Long Haul in 2025: Meals, Seats & Entertainment

Mr Plane Guy
1 day ago
9 min read

Everything You Need to Know About TUI Long Haul in 2025: Meals, Seats & Entertainment

By Mr Plane Guy, Travel Blogger & Aviation Expert

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my travel blog and allows me to continue creating useful content. Thank you for your support!

Flying long haul with TUI in 2025? You’ve come to the right place! Whether you’re dreaming of Caribbean beaches or planning a big adventure to Mexico, TUI’s long-haul flights are an affordable way to reach far-flung destinations. But what’s the real deal with TUI’s long-haul experience this year? In this guide, I’ll spill the tea on everything from meals and seats to the latest inflight entertainment on TUI’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

I’ve flown long haul with TUI plenty of times, so you’re not just getting the official spiel here. This guide is a mix of insider tips, personal experiences, and the most up-to-date info for 2025.

TUI Long-Haul Fleet: Dreamliner Delights and More

One of the most exciting aspects of TUI’s long-haul experience is the aircraft itself. Most of TUI’s long-haul routes are operated by the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. This modern aircraft is known for its spacious cabins, quieter engines, and improved air quality. You can expect a smooth and comfortable flight, though don’t be fooled by the name - not everything on board is dreamy!

Boeing 787-8 vs. Boeing 787-9: What’s the Difference?

TUI operates both the 787-8 and the 787-9 models. The main difference? Capacity. The 787-9 is slightly longer and has a few more seats. Both feature large windows with adjustable tinting, better cabin pressure, and mood lighting to reduce jet lag. If you’re lucky, you might snag one of the extra legroom seats in the first few rows.

Checking In: Save Time and Stress

You can check in online 14 days before departure if you’ve upgraded to Premium or selected your seat. Otherwise, it opens 48 hours prior. Be prepared to check in separately for your outbound and inbound flights. And yes, the TUI app is your best friend here for checking gate numbers and flight updates.

Lounge Access: Start Your Holiday in Style

Flying TUI premium class means access to exclusive airport lounges in UK and Irish airports, with

Complimentary drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
Tasty snacks to keep you going
Wi-Fi to catch up on emails or browse before your flight
Comfortable seating to unwind before takeoff

If you love starting your holiday with a touch of luxury, this alone might make the upgrade worthwhile.

Still want airport lounge access but at a reduced fee? I got you!

Exclusive Offer: I was kindly given a 30% off code for a Priority Pass!

Priority Pass is the world's largest independent airport VIP lounge access program, with over 1,400+ lounges in over 600 cities across 148 countries! From just £69 for an annual pass.

The lovely people from priority Pass have offered me a 30% discount code making it just £48! Be quick this won't last long!! Use my link below.

Take a Look Here ( I get a tiny kickback BTW, thank you for the support )

TOP TIP: If two of you are travelling, just get one Priority Pass and the two of you will get into lounges at reduced fee's all year!

Day-Before Bag Drop

A real lifesaver if you’re flying out early. You can check in your bags the evening before at selected airports, like Gatwick, Manchester, and Birmingham. It’s not available for every destination, so double-check before you head out!

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!

Here is the Link to a Single AirTag

Free Cabin Bag

Size: Maximum dimensions of 55 x 40 x 20 cm.
Weight: Up to 10kg.
Additional Item: You can bring a small personal item, such as a handbag or laptop bag, that fits under the seat in front of you.
For families travelling with infants under 2 years old, you're entitled to 10kg of hand luggage plus an extra baby changing bag of similar dimensions.

The Cabin Max Anode 40L Cabin Suitcase is 55 x 40 x 20 cm the exact requirements for TUI.

I've been using the Cabin Max Anode for over a year and it's the perfect fit for Tui carry on luggage item, it is so well made and great value.

Take a Look HERE

It is so lightweight, it has 360 spinning wheels so I can push or pull it around the airport and place my small under-seat 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 and comes in so many different colours!

Take a Look HERE

A Personal under-seat bag that fits under the seat is also allowed as part of your onboard cabin luggage with TUI airlines, but it should measure no larger than

40 x 30 x 20 cm.

Cabin Max METZ 20L Under Seat Bag (40 x 20 x 25 cm) is perfect for TUI economy personal bag size requirements

You can keep everything super organised, I love that its really well padded so it's very comfortable on your back getting through long walks at the airport, its also the perfect size for Ryanair's free persoanl bag carry on! It also comes in so many different colours.

Of course you can also find all of the Cabin Max range on Amazon

TUI Checked Baggage Allowance

When flying with TUI Airways as part of a package holiday, your checked luggage allowance varies based on your booking type:

Standard Package Holidays: Includes 20kg of checked luggage per adult or child.
Packages with TUI Airways: Bookings with TUI Airlines include a generous 25kg of checked luggage per adult or child. This applies to long-haul, short-haul, and mid-haul flights with TUI Airlines as part of a TUI holiday.
Infants under 2 years: Receive 10kg of checked luggage.
Wedding Packages: Couples booking wedding packages also receive 25kg of checked luggage each.

Top Tip: Use an Apple AirTag in your checked luggage to track its location. Find more details about this Here.

Baggage for Long-Haul and TUI Dreamliner Flights

Flying long-haul with TUI is a treat, especially aboard their state-of-the-art Dreamliner 787. Here’s what you need to know about luggage:

TUI Long-Haul Flights: Include 25kg of checked luggage per person when booked as part of a TUI Airlines package holiday.
TUI Dreamliner Comfort: The Dreamliner offers added comfort, enhanced in-flight entertainment, and quieter cabins. Read my full review of the Dreamliner experience here.

TUI Baggage Fees and Costs

Adding extra luggage to your booking? It’s usually cheaper to do so online in advance. Here’s what you can expect:

Excess Baggage Fees: If your suitcase exceeds the allowance, you’ll need to pay an excess baggage fee at the airport. TUI can be strict on weight limits, so it’s best to weigh your luggage before heading to the airport.
Additional Bags: You can purchase extra checked luggage when booking your flight or later via the TUI website or app.

Packing Tips for TUI Flights

Invest in the Right Bag: For hand luggage, the Cabin Max Anode is ideal for TUI’s 10kg allowance. It’s lightweight and fits perfectly under the seat.
Share Weight: Families traveling together can combine their checked luggage allowances, provided no single bag exceeds 32kg.
Use Compression Cubes: Maximize your packing space while keeping your belongings organized.
Wear Bulky Items: Save space in your luggage by wearing heavier items like jackets or boots.

Packing cubes to keep everything organised. If you have items spilling out of your luggage you are more likely to be asked to place your luggage in the sizer for checking by the gate staff!

Check out these packing cubes on Amazon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the baggage allowance for TUI?

For hand luggage, you’re allowed 10kg with maximum dimensions of 55 x 40 x 20 cm. Checked luggage allowances range from 20kg or 25kg if your holiday package is with TUI airlines flights.

How strict are TUI on luggage size?

TUI enforces their size and weight limits strictly, especially for hand luggage. Ensure your bags meet the specified dimensions to avoid additional fees.

Can you take a handbag as well as hand luggage on TUI?

Yes, you can bring a small personal item like a handbag or laptop bag in addition to your main cabin bag.

What size bag fits under the seat on TUI?

A bag that fits under the seat should measure no larger than 40 x 30 x 20 cm.
The Cabin Max Metz 20L is a great option.

TUI Luggage Allowance 2025

Standard allowances remain consistent, with 20kg for most bookings and 25kg for holidays with TUI Airlines.

Travelling with TUI Airlines? Whether it’s a short getaway or a long-haul journey, understanding their luggage policy will help you pack smart and travel confidently.

Do check out TUI Luggage Allowance Guide: Everything You Need to Know.

Onboard Meals: What’s Cooking in 2025?

If you’re flying for seven hours or more, your meals are included - and you’ll definitely want to manage your expectations. Typically, you’ll get a main meal with wine or juice, followed by tea or coffee. Before landing, there’s usually a light bite or breakfast, depending on the time of day.

What’s Changed?

Over the years, TUI has cut back on a few meal perks. Say goodbye to bread rolls and butter, and don’t expect pretzels with your drinks. The meals are pretty basic - think pasta, a small dessert, and cheese with crackers. Premium passengers get a slightly upgraded experience, but it’s still nothing gourmet.

Inflight Entertainment: Decent for the Price

Long-haul TUI flights come with seatback screens and a rotating selection of movies, TV shows, and games. Don’t expect the latest blockbusters, but it’s enough to pass the time. Bonus points for the moving map - a classic!

TUI Long-Haul Tips

Bring snacks! Café magazine offers light bites, but there’s no hot food or sandwiches to buy onboard.
Don’t rely on the provided headphones. They’re not great, so pack your own.
If you’ve got a USB cable, you’re in luck - most seats have a port to keep your devices charged.

Ready for Take Off? Is TUI Long Haul Worth It?

Honestly, if you’re after a budget-friendly way to reach your dream destination, TUI gets the job done. Just manage your expectations on food and comfort. If you’re willing to splash out, Premium is the way to go - but for a bit more cash, you could fly a full-service airline.

Whether it’s the affordable fares or the handy day-before bag drop, TUI long-haul flights are all about practicality over luxury. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be well-prepared for your next big trip.

So, there you have it, the ultimate guide to flying long haul with TUI in 2025. From meals to seats and everything in between, I’ve covered it all. If you’re still on the fence, check out my latest YouTube trip report for a firsthand look at the experience!

Safe travels and happy flying!

Plan Your Airport Parking: Booking in advance can make your journey more seamless.

Check out Prices and Information HERE

Travel Tip: TUI Airways Economy

Get one of these phone holder clips and watch something on your phone hands free, it clips on to TUI Airways Economy seats perfectly! They are so cheap and will really transform your economy flight experience! I will link one here on Amazon

Have you been delayed by TUI? Are you flying with them soon? If you're delayed don't forget to save screen shots of any departure screens, app updated, receipts for expenses, make a note of the times.

You could be owed up to 600 Euros per person!

Check if you can make a claim Here

AirHelp will help you make any claim and make it super easy to get any flight delay money back.

1. Take Receipts

As soon as you see a delay:

Document Everything: Take screenshots of the departure board and note the times—every minute counts!
Expenses: Keep receipts for any expenses at the airport and scan them into your phone.
Communication: Note what the airline staff say about the delay, including who you spoke to and when. Airlines often cite "extraordinary circumstances" to avoid compensating, so detailed records are essential.

2. Be Prepared

Always be ready for things to go wrong:

Snacks: Pack extra snacks to keep hunger at bay.
Medications: Ensure you have extra medication if needed.
For Kids: Bring additional activities, blankets, charged power banks, and nappies if traveling with children.

3. Know Your Rights

According to EU regulation 261/2004, if your flight is delayed by over 3 hours, cancelled, overbooked, or if you're denied boarding, you may be entitled to compensation. This regulation applies to flights departing from or arriving in EU countries, as well as some others like Turkey.

Check if you can make a claim Here