Everybody loves a bargain – especially when it comes to flights. But making sure you don’t get stung by any hidden charges or costs is key to getting the most out of these airlines. In this article the team at BackHackers have set out the pros and cons of using low budget travel…
CONS
Stricter Baggage Limits
The cost of hold luggage may not always be included in the ticket price. So this is something that will need to be checked. Bear this in mind if heading to a winter resort where you’ll also be checking in a sports bag.
No Freebies
Unfortunately there are no free in-flight meals and often headphones for any media are also chargeable. However, you can purchase items during the flight with multiple currencies or credit/debit cards.
Seat Charges
If you want to book a specific seat in advance, this will also cost you. You are able to do it ahead of booking additional hold luggage and any in-flight meals.
PROS
If A Cabin Bag Is All You Need…
Then these flights are perfect. No need to check in hold luggage and you can head straight to the gate! Just be sure your cabin bag meets the weight and size restrictions set out during booking.
Seat Charges
Although mentioned above as a con, you don’t actually have to book your seat in advance, and even when travelling with others it’s more likely than not that you will also be sat together if you check in relatively early.
It’s Really Cheap
Flying low budget really does save the pennies, particularly if you’re planning on travelling around. And if you avoid the ‘hidden costs’, it really is a steal! And still gets you to the same destination as a more expensive airline, at a fraction of the cost.
Some people may say that cheaper
airlines have tighter check in times and harsher T&Cs in terms of refunding
or exchanging actual tickets, but in all honesty ALL airlines are guilty of
this. All airlines have to have strict check in times, as delayed flights have
huge knock on effects for airports and other flights. And in most airline
T&Cs you will find it’s pretty difficult to exchange, refund or transfer
any ticket – so this is not just a low budget airline trait. If investigated
properly, low budget airlines can make travel quick, easy and affordable!