Low-cost airlines are a blessing from the skies for travelers with a tight budget and a tight schedule. Sometimes even cheaper than a bus ticket, it otherwise remains most of the time a good alternative to traditional airlines. Of course cheap doesn't come hassle free, so here are 6 hints to get the most of that concept.
1. Book well in advance
Seast are usually on sale 4 to 6 months prior to departure, in limited quantity of course. If you can plan your trip in advance, wait for hat sale to come. Ether visit the company website on a regular basis or subscribe to their newsletter.
2. Know about the fees
There will be a section in their website about the fees. Avoid bad surprises and have a look at that list. Many services that are complimentary on traditional airlines will be charged by the low-cost one's.
3. Avoid all the extras
Most of the flights are only a few hours long. Do you really need that nice looking meal? A reserved seat? A pillow and a blanket? Priority boarding? They may be only a few dollars each, but dollars you won't have to enjoy your destination.
4. Prepay your checked luggage
Most of low-cost airlines only allow one free carry-on luggage and checked luggage must be paid for. Prepaying it on internet can save you up to 50% compared to the price charged at the airport. Its even better if you can travel light with only a carry-on
5. Self check in online
Some companies charge a fee to check in at the airport counter or even just printing the boarding card. Avoid it by doing it yourself on internet and printing it before heading for your flight. Even if it costs you 25¢ in an internet cafe, it is much less then what the airline could charge.
6. Bring an isolating kit
Many times during the flight there will be announcement for you to buy beverages, snacks, drinks, souvenirs, duty free and more. Sometimes they even turn on the lights to be sure to have your attention. Avoid all of that by bringing earplugs or earphones with your music and a blackout mask if you want to rest.
In the end, don't forget the ticket was dirt cheap, probably cheaper than taking the bus. So be indulgent and, more than anything else, well prepared. Have a good flight!
Vincent Bussières
Assoiffé de découvertes et adorant écrire, je saisis toutes les occasions afin de faire connaitre ma passion: voyager! Globetrotteur et multi-blogueur, je souhaite partager avec vous mes trucs et astuces, et vous transmettre la piqûre du voyage.