easyJet vs Jet2 Gatwick 2026: The Ultimate Battle of the Terminals
By Dan Kowalski
The New Gatwick Rivalry
For years, easyJet has owned the Gatwick leisure market. But as of March 26, 2026, Jet2 has officially planted its flag in the South Terminal with 29 routes and a fleet of brand-new Airbus A321neo aircraft.
If you’re looking at flights for Summer 2026, you’re likely seeing easyJet at the top of the search results for £40 and Jet2 just below for £65. But in 2026, the “headline price” is a lie.
1. The Terminal Trap: North vs. South
This is the first thing you need to know. They do not fly from the same place.
- easyJet: Operates primarily from the North Terminal.
- Jet2: Operates exclusively from the South Terminal.
Why this matters: If you’re used to flying easyJet and you book Jet2, your muscle memory will take you to the North Terminal. In 2026, Gatwick is busier than ever. If you end up at the wrong terminal, you have to use the monorail, which—while free—can add 20 minutes to your journey during peak July/August morning rushes.
2. The 2026 Baggage Math
This is where Jet2 usually wins the “Value Battle.”
| Feature | easyJet (Standard) | Jet2 (Standard) |
|---|---|---|
| Small Underseat Bag | Included (45x36x20cm) | Included (45x36x20cm) |
| Overhead Cabin Bag | Extra (£18 - £45) | FREE (10kg) |
| Checked Bag | 23kg (From £24) | 22kg (From £22) |
| Gate Fees | £48 if oversized | More Lenient |
If you need a standard “Wheelie” cabin bag, that £40 easyJet flight suddenly becomes an £85 flight. Meanwhile, the £65 Jet2 flight stays at £65. Jet2 is often £20 cheaper per person once you add a single bag.
3. The Aircraft Experience: A321neo vs. A320
Jet2 has launched its Gatwick base with a fleet of Airbus A321neo planes.
- The Jet2 Edge: These are brand new for 2026. They are 50% quieter and have much larger “Airspace” overhead bins.
- The easyJet Edge: easyJet has a massive fleet. While many are Neos, you might still end up on an older, noisier A319 or A320 depending on the route.
4. Which is Cheaper? (Real World April 2026 Data)
In our recent test for a week in Palma (September 2026):
- easyJet: £39 (Seat Only) + £32 (Cabin Bag) + £12 (Seat Selection) = £83
- Jet2: £52 (Seat Only) + £0 (Cabin Bag) + £10 (Seat Selection) = £62
Dan’s Final Verdict
- Choose easyJet if: You are a true “Backpack Only” traveler and don’t care which terminal you use.
- Choose Jet2 if: You are traveling with a family, have a 10kg cabin bag, or are arriving at Gatwick by train.
Planning your Gatwick trip?