London Gatwick Airport: Your Complete Guide for Smooth Travels

Welcome to London Gatwick Airport (LGW), the UK's second busiest airport! Whether you're just passing through or starting your journey here, this guide will help you navigate Gatwick like a seasoned traveler. And if you're comparing London airports, don't forget to check out our guide to Heathrow Airport.

Gatwick at a Glance

Unlike its bigger sibling Heathrow, Gatwick has a simpler layout with just two terminals:

North Terminal: Home to airlines like easyJet, Virgin Atlantic, and Delta
South Terminal: Hosts British Airways, Vueling, and many others

The terminals are connected by a free, 24/7 shuttle service that takes just two minutes.

Navigating Gatwick

Gatwick prides itself on being easy to navigate. Here are some tips:

Follow the color-coded signs: Blue for departures, yellow for arrivals
Use the free Wi-Fi to access airport maps and real-time flight information
If you need help, look for the friendly staff in red jackets

Transit Passengers

If you're transiting through Gatwick, the process is straightforward:

Follow the 'Flight Connections' signs
Go through security screening
If you need to change terminals, use the inter-terminal shuttle

Remember, transit times can vary. We recommend at least 60 minutes for transit within the same terminal, and 90 minutes if changing terminals.

Layover at Gatwick

Got time to spare? Gatwick offers plenty of options:

Shopping: Both terminals offer duty-free and high-street brands
Dining: From quick bites to sit-down meals, there's something for every palate
Relaxation: Find lounges in both terminals, some offering spa services

For those with longer layovers, consider taking a trip into London. The Gatwick Express can get you to Victoria Station in just 30 minutes. But before you venture out, make sure to check our guide on UK layovers and visa requirements.

Gatwick vs Heathrow

Wondering how Gatwick compares to Heathrow? Here are some key differences:

Size: Gatwick is smaller, making it generally easier to navigate
Location: Gatwick is south of London, while Heathrow is to the west
Airlines: Gatwick hosts more low-cost carriers, while Heathrow has more full-service airlines
International connections: Both offer global connections, but Heathrow has more long-haul flights

For a detailed guide on Heathrow, check out our Heathrow transit guide.

Final Tips

Always check your boarding pass for your departure terminal
Allow extra time during peak hours (usually early morning and late afternoon)
If you're flying to the US, remember that Gatwick has US preclearance facilities
Download the Gatwick Airport app for real-time updates and airport information

With this guide, you're all set to make your journey through Gatwick Airport smooth and stress-free. Safe travels!