Route cheat-sheet

• Airports: Cape Town (CPT) → London (LHR/LGW)
• Typical duration: ≈11–12h seasonal nonstops; 1‑stop via ME/Europe year‑round
• Airline patterns: seasonal directs plus 1‑stop via DOH/DXB/AMS/FRA/CDG
• Best booking window: 12–20+ weeks for long‑haul peaks; earlier for school holidays.
• Peak price drivers: SA holidays, destination events/expos, northern‑hemisphere summers/winters.

How to win this route (strategy)

Business/VFR rhythms, school‑holiday pricing, and airport/rail transfers for central city access.

Practical tactics before you buy

• Red‑eye to land morning; book early for Friday/Sunday peaks.
• Compare LHR vs LGW arrivals to your final address time (Heathrow Express/Elizabeth line vs Southern/Thameslink).
• For Schengen connectors, pad layovers and keep documents handy.

On‑arrival logistics — London

• Heathrow: rail/tube choices; Gatwick: rail links to Victoria/London Bridge.
• Hotel check‑in gaps: plan lounge access or a short city walk with luggage storage.
• Winter light hours are short—schedule outdoor visits earlier.

Fare brands & baggage (plain English)

• Light/Basic: cabin‑only; strict size/weight. Add a checked bag at booking if needed.
• Standard/Flex: includes checked bag(s) and friendlier changes—often cheaper than add‑ons later.
• Special items: instruments/sports gear—check carrier rules and prebook where allowed.

Sleep & jet‑lag plan

• Eastbound: favour a red‑eye; choose a window seat, eye mask and avoid caffeine before boarding.
• Westbound: stay awake on the plane and sleep at destination bedtime to adapt faster.
• If landing too early for check‑in, plan lounge access or a short walking tour with luggage storage.

Documents & health (verify official guidance)

• Check visa requirements for your passport and any transit hubs; rules change.
• Ensure passport validity and blank pages meet the destination’s standard.
• Consider travel insurance covering medical care and trip changes.

Book smarter on FMLT

• Search /flights/cape-town-to-london/ and add travellers/dates.
• Filter by bags, time of day, stops and fare flexibility.
• Compare fare brands line‑by‑line; include what you’ll need up‑front.
• Secure checkout via major cards or instant EFT; your confirmation includes airline record locators.