16 Essential Tips for Flying with Low-Cost Airlines

Some people dislike low-cost airlines and claim they end up being pricier than full-service carriers because of so-called “hidden fees.” But as budget travelers, we have to disagree. In reality, you’re only paying for your flight—no more, no less, and the fees are actually pretty transparent.

Most people simply click instead of reading the details! For example, Spirit Airlines is one of the most upfront low-cost airlines about its fees, yet it makes the majority of its revenue from fees as a percentage of total profits. In 2015, 43% of Spirit’s income came from ancillary sales (baggage fees, booking online, seat selection, etc.), with 18% coming from checked bags alone.

If you play by the rules—or even cleverly bend them—you can avoid falling into that 43% trap. Here’s how to grab amazing deals and fly low cost without spending a cent more than necessary on fees! Check out these 16 tips to help you fly cheap, pay $0 in extra charges, and keep more money in your own pocket.

1. Not All Budget Airlines Are the Same

Don’t assume all low-cost airlines work the same way. Policies, fees, and baggage size or weight limits differ from company to company. For instance, Spirit Airlines charges a “Passenger Usage Fee” of $9–17 USD if you book online—but you can skip this by buying your ticket at the airport. Ryanair, a major budget airline in Europe, doesn’t charge for online bookings but does for airport bookings. Airlines such as AirAsia also adjust fees depending on your destination.

Always do your research on baggage policies and fare structures before booking. A quick Google search will highlight which fees most travelers get caught by. And, as always, read the fine print and review your confirmation email.

2. Know Which Airport You’re Landing At

Low-cost airlines often fly into smaller, less central airports to save money. So, before booking, check the arrival airport and plan how you’ll reach your final destination. If getting into the city is expensive or complicated, that bargain fare could become costly—unless you don’t mind paying extra, of course. But you probably do, otherwise you wouldn’t be reading this.

Note: Because of the location and frequent delays of low-cost carriers, don’t book tight connections or close transfer times between flights. Allow at least 2 hours between connections.

3. Pay for Add-ons or Extras Online If Needed

If you need to check a backpack, add a meal, bring a guitar, or anything beyond the basics, purchase those extras while booking your flight—it’s almost always cheaper online than at the airport.

4. Provide an Email Address You Regularly Check

Low-cost airlines use emails to remind you about charges and how to avoid extra fees. Give them an address you monitor frequently.

5. Let the Airline Choose Your Seat

Don’t get picky about your seat if you want to save. I’m tall with long legs and prefer an aisle seat, but won’t pay extra for it. I usually board last to snag whatever open aisle seat or even a whole empty row.

6. Watch Out for Automatic Travel Insurance Add-ons

Some airlines, like AirAsia, pre-select travel insurance by default. If you leave it checked, you’ll pay for it without realizing. It’s best to skip airline-offered insurance, as it rarely covers much. Instead, invest in comprehensive travel insurance that protects more than just your flight and baggage.

7. Search for and Use Promo Codes

Who doesn’t want to pay just $25 for a flight—or score it for $5 by using a promo code? The best way is to follow your favorite budget airlines on social networks or subscribe to their newsletters. For example, AirAsia currently offers $0 flights across Asia.

8. Double- and Triple-Check Your Information

Ensure your name, personal details, and flight dates are all correct before booking. A single wrong letter or number can mean high change fees and extra call center costs. Double- and triple-check, especially if you’re booking on your phone—autocorrect can trip you up.

On that note, avoid booking flights by phone or calling the airline unless absolutely necessary. Use online platforms whenever possible; some low-cost airlines, like Spirit, charge $10–25 USD to book over the phone.

9. Think Twice About How You Pay

With low-cost airlines, paying by credit card often means a processing fee. For example, Ryanair charges a 2% transaction fee. If you can, use a debit card or pay in cash.

10. Check-In Online in Advance

Did you know that many budget airlines charge for airport check-in? Save by using the online check-in tool before your flight.

Pay attention to online check-in timeframes. For example, Ryanair allows passengers without reserved seats to check in from 4 days to 2 hours before departure, and those with a reserved seat can check in from 30 days to 2 hours prior.

11. Print Your Boarding Pass

Save yourself time and money by printing your boarding pass at home. It’s better to pay a few cents at a local print shop than $10–50 at the airport. Even if your airline doesn’t require a paper boarding pass, print it anyway—better to lose some change than cough up $10 or more for one sheet.

12. Pack a Carry-On and Weigh It Beforehand

All low-cost carriers have their own strict baggage policies. Check the airline’s website for current details, pack light, take only a carry-on, and use a digital luggage scale to weigh your backpack in advance.

I also recommend packing a small collapsible daypack in your hand luggage in case your main bag is overweight at the airport. You can move heavier items like your laptop and electronics to the second bag as your “personal item”—just double-check your airline even allows one.

13. Follow TSA 3-1-1 Liquid Rules & Banned Items

If you’re not checking a bag, make sure you’re not carrying scissors, non-disposable razors, bottles over 90 ml, or pocket knives—otherwise, you may have to check your bag. For more TSA rules widely used by international airports, click here.

14. Bring Snacks

We all know how expensive airport food is. Double that price on a low-cost airline! Rather than buy overpriced meals onboard, prep your own or buy food in advance outside the airport.

The only thing you might need to buy after security is water—unless you’re in a country such as Austria, where you can refill your bottle with tap water.

15. Wear Your Baggage

It sounds odd, but the more you wear, the less your backpack will weigh. Even if you’re heading to a tropical place, wear your thickest items—jeans, hiking boots, a coat—at check-in. Don’t forget to stuff your pockets too!

Do whatever’s possible to avoid overweight fees and get past the check-in counter. Airlines only regulate baggage, not what you carry on your body.

16. Leave Early

As mentioned above, low-cost carriers usually fly from airports further from the city center—leave plenty of time to get there. Plan to arrive at least two hours before departure. Hanging around the airport for a couple of hours may be dull, but missing your flight and paying for another is much worse. Don’t underestimate the time you need to reach the airport!