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Are you planning a trip and thinking about flying with a budget airline? While saving money is great, it is important to know that not all low-cost carriers offer the same level of service and reliability. Take a look at some things you might want to keep in mind or consider before booking a budget airline.
Budget airlines are famous for their rock-bottom ticket prices, but those savings often come with extra fees. It is not uncommon to pay for things like checked luggage or carry-ons, seat selection, and onboard essentials.
For example, some airlines, like Spirit Airlines, charge for both checked and cabin baggage, so if you are not careful, these fees can add up quickly. Other airlines charge for seat selection. This means that if you want to sit with your travel buddy, it could cost extra.
On-board essentials like snacks, drinks, and even water are often not included in your fare.
Always read the fine print before booking, as these “hidden” costs can make what seems like a great deal much more expensive.
Budget airlines typically make up for low fares by cramming in as many seats as possible. This can mean less legroom, no reclining seats, and minimal amenities. If you are tall or value comfort, this could be a dealbreaker.
Many budget carriers, such as Ryanair and easyJet, use fixed seats to save space and maintenance costs. Most of them also don't offer free blankets, pillows, in-flight entertainment, or extra things that enhance comfort. While these airlines get you where you need to go, don’t expect luxury.
Budget airlines often operate on tight schedules with quick turnarounds, which can lead to delays or cancellations. This is especially common when flights are overbooked or weather disrupting schedules, and there are not enough backup planes or crews to manage. A good example is Allegiant Air, which has faced criticism for frequent delays and operational issues. Always be sure to check an airline’s track record for punctuality before booking.
Customer support can be hit or miss with budget airlines. This can be due to fewer staff at airports as most of these airlines often don’t have dedicated staff at smaller airports. It could also be due to limited ways to contact support. Many budget carriers prioritise email or online forms over phone lines.
If something goes wrong, like a lost bag or a missed connection, resolving the issue may take longer or end up unresolved.
While most airlines meet safety standards, some budget carriers have been criticised for cutting corners on maintenance to save money. This does not mean they are unsafe, but it is always a good idea to do your homework.
Check trusted sites like AirlineRatings.com for safety reviews and recent incidents. Knowing an airline’s track record can help you feel more confident about your choice and avoid unnecessary worries while travelling.
While saving money is important, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey should always be a priority. Budget airlines can be a fantastic way to cut costs, but they often come with trade-offs like extra fees, limited comfort, and potential delays.
Always make sure to research an airline’s reputation, read the fine print, and plan ahead so you can make smarter travel choices. Remember, sometimes spending a little more can save you from a lot of stress.
We are a family of 4 - mother, father and two children. Our aim is to travel the world and review all travel opportunities to help other families.
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