Budget airlines have revolutionized the way we travel. No longer is flying the reserve of the wealthy, now almost anyone can jet off for a quick city break or beach holiday on a budget. However, flying with budget airlines does require some insider knowledge to make the experience as hassle-free as possible. Here are some tips for flying budget airlines without the stress.
Book early. The earlier you book, the cheaper the fare. Most budget airlines release their schedules up to a year in advance, so as soon as you’ve settled on your dates, get booking. Booking at least 4 to 6 weeks before you fly is a good rule of thumb.
Be flexible with your dates and times. If you can fly midweek or are open to a range of departure and return dates, you’ll find the cheapest deals. Budget airlines often charge more for weekend flights and flying in and out on the same day. Consider staying over a Saturday night to save money.
Travel light. Most budget airlines charge extra for checked baggage, sometimes more than the cost of your fare. Where possible, pack everything into a single carry-on bag to avoid fees. If you do need to check a bag, pre-pay for it when booking to get the best rate.
Read the fine print. Budget airlines have lots of extra charges for things like seat selection, priority boarding, food, drink and entertainment. Be aware of what is and isn’t included in your fare to avoid surprise charges at the airport. It’s often cheaper to buy snacks, meals and beverages at the airport before boarding.
Arrive at the airport on time. Most budget airlines have very tight turnaround times, so they are strict about passengers arriving for check-in and boarding on time. Miss your slot and you may find your seat has been sold to a standby passenger. Allow plenty of time to clear security and get to your gate.
With some insider knowledge and advance planning, flying budget airlines can open up a world of affordable travel opportunities. By being flexible, packing light and arriving prepared, you can enjoy the journey almost as much as the destination. Happy travels!