Air travel can often come with unexpected costs, particularly when it comes to budget airlines. A recent warning issued to easyJet by the UK’s advertising watchdog highlights the discrepancies between advertised prices and actual fees for services like carry-on luggage. As airlines continue to profit from ancillary revenue, understanding how to minimise these additional charges is more crucial than ever for travellers.
The Reality of Budget Airlines
Budget airlines have gained popularity for their attractive ticket prices. However, these low fares often come with a catch: significant charges for extras such as luggage, seat selection, and priority boarding. This business model is highly lucrative, with ancillary revenues contributing billions to airline profits each year.
In a survey conducted by consumer rights organisation Which?, findings revealed that advertised prices for carry-on bags were rarely available. For example, easyJet’s suggested carry-on fee of £5.99 was called into question after the airline failed to substantiate this claim. The survey indicated that Ryanair’s lowest advertised price of £12 was only accessible twice out of 634 flights, while Wizz Air’s €10 option was similarly elusive.
Packing Wisely to Avoid Charges
Laura Anne Sargeant, a travel influencer, advocates for a minimalist approach to packing. She recommends utilising hotel toiletries and sharing luggage with travel companions to reduce costs. “I never take a hairdryer,” she notes, emphasising the importance of being strategic with what you pack.
Solo traveller Wendie Smith echoes this sentiment as she prepares for her trip to South-East Asia. Opting for a soft backpack that can easily fit into airline size restrictions, she advises potential travellers to consider creative packing solutions. “Dry robes have massive pockets,” she adds, highlighting an innovative way to carry extra items without incurring fees.
Chelsea Dickenson, another travel expert, suggests loading pockets with heavier items instead of placing them in checked luggage. “Airlines may weigh your bag, but they don’t weigh you!” she states. For those who need to check a bag, she recommends purchasing luggage early, as prices tend to escalate closer to departure.
Understanding Cabin Bag Regulations
Airlines often have different rules regarding cabin baggage, which can lead to confusion. Chelsea advises travellers to measure their bags and consult the airline’s website for precise dimensions rather than relying solely on labels. Notably, luggage manufacturers have responded to this issue by creating bags with removable wheels, allowing travellers to circumvent size restrictions more easily.
Avoiding Marketing Traps
During the booking process, it can sometimes appear that selecting a seat or paying for priority boarding is mandatory. However, if you are flexible about seating arrangements, you can allow the airline to assign your seat for free. Laura Anne warns against the allure of priority boarding, describing it as “a bit of a con.” She clarifies that if overhead bins fill up, passengers won’t incur extra charges for gate-checking their bags, though they may experience delays when retrieving their luggage upon arrival.
Furthermore, the booking interface often presents additional services that may seem beneficial. Laura Anne advises caution, particularly regarding travel insurance offered through airlines, which rarely provides the best value.
Why it Matters
As airlines continue to capitalise on ancillary revenue, understanding how to navigate add-on fees is essential for travellers seeking to keep costs down. By adopting strategic packing techniques, familiarising oneself with airline regulations, and being wary of marketing tactics, passengers can significantly reduce unexpected expenses. Empowered with this knowledge, travellers can focus on enjoying their journeys rather than fretting over hidden costs.
