If you’re traveling to Bulgaria  then you’ll probably be taking some kind of electrical items with you like your mobile phone charger or hair dryer.

You will need to check for compatibility with the type of plugs and socket used in Bulgaria and in particular the voltage which needs to be correct to avoid damage or even a fire.

It’s very simple and in most cases things will be OK.

Plugs & Sockets

Bulgaria uses the 2 pin type C plugs and sockets common across the world including Germany, Italy, India, Brazil etc.

See a full list of countries that use the type C plug and socket.

If your equipment is not fitted with a type C plug then you will need to find a suitable adaptor. Generic adaptors will convert between most types of plugs and sockets and are available from travel goods shops and airports. It’s worth taking more than one adaptor if you’re taking more than a few pieces of equipment.

Voltage

The electricity supply in Bulgaria is 220/240 volts with a frequency of 50Hz.

If you’re traveling from Europe then your equipment should work but check the label on the equipment to be sure.

If you are traveling from the US or any country with a 110V supply then you will need to check your equipment for compatibility with a 240V supply. If suitable, you  may be required to adjust a switch on the device to change the voltage. If your equipment is not compatible then you will need a suitable voltage converter.

An additional problem is the 60Hz frequency used in the US which can cause problems with some devices such as tape recorders.

Use WhatPlug.info to check the voltage and frequency compatibility from your country.

Power Quality

Urban areas in Bulgaria have a steady and typically uninterrupted supply of electricity.

The power can be unstable in rural areas of Bulgaria resulting in brownouts and blackouts, particularly during and after heavy storms.

If you are taking a laptop then this won’t be a problem as it can run off its own battery if the power supply is affected. 

easyJet are well known for offering cheap flights to destinations across Europe and this includes Bulgaria. They currently operate a daily service between London Gatwick and Sofia.

Price

The prices vary significantly depending on the day of travel and time of year and range from just over £30 up to £130 each way. For the lowest cost holiday you will need to book well in advance and be a bit flexible.

The prices can be amongst the lowest available but don’t assume this and make sure you check other airlines.

Rating: 4/5

Customer Service

easyJet’s simple no-frills approach to low cost flying has spread over Europe in the last 10 years. The main difference is that low cost airlines do not offer any free services on board like snacks or drinks but you can still buy them. Those expecting the same level of service as a flight on BA or other more mature airlines might be disappointed. Those with realistic expectations of a no-frills service will almost certainly be satisfied.

The check-in staff are generally professional and helpful although it’s not always clear which desks to use. The screens behind the check-in desks at Gatwick all display flight destinations which bear no relation to the check-in desks resulting in some confusion with passengers.

The flight staff and crew are friendly. Specific seats cannot be booked so it’s a free-for-all when trying to get on the plane. You can upgrade to be the first allowed on the plane or just try and queue early.

Rating: 3/5

The Flight

The daily flight time varies from early morning to mid afternoon. The early morning flights have the advantage of giving you the whole day in Bulgaria which is perfect to make the most of a short weekend break. The afternoon flight is a more relaxed way to continue your journey in Bulgaria.

Flights from the UK to Sofia take just over 3 hours and land in Sofia at Terminal 1, the old airport terminal not the new shiny one.

As you would expect for the price, you get nothing beyond a seat and access to the toilet. Snacks are available to purchase during the flight and the prices are reasonable.

Legroom is minimal but reasonable for the length of the flight. The planes are generally new and the toilets are clean.

Rating: 3/5

Overall

Low-cost and generally good service as long as you have reasonable expectations.

Rating: 4/5