A TRAVEL expert has revealed why you should avoid booking the cheapest flights for your holiday.
Ski Vertigo, a leading travel expert, has shared five crucial reasons why the lowest-priced option isn’t always the best.
You might be tempted to save up on your plane tickets but it could cost you more in the long run.
According to Ski Vertigo, budget airlines have a plethora of hidden costs which can catch you off guard.
They said: “The initial price of a cheap flight often doesn’t reflect the full cost of your travel. Low-cost carriers typically charge extra for a variety of services that traditional airlines include in their ticket prices.
“These additional costs can quickly add up and sometimes exceed the price of the flight itself.”
Unless you are travelling with just a backpack, you might have to fork out a substantial sum for a carry-on or checked-in baggage.
Low-cost carriers can also charge extra for food and drinks onboard, seat selection, and even booking fees.
A spokesperson from Ski Vertigo added: “When booking, aim for flights that include essential services. This can save you from unexpected expenses later.
“For instance, if you require checked baggage, seat selection, or meals, look for airlines that bundle these services into their fare.
“This approach not only helps manage your budget but also ensures a smoother travel experience without last-minute surprises.”
Budget airlines also often have stricter policies on refunds, cancellations and changes which could cost you more if you need last-minute adjustments.
Cheaper flights also have inconvenient schedules which means you could end up stranded if there’s a cancellation and the airline doesn’t have multiple daily flights.
Along with unexpected expenses, Ski Vertigo claims that low-cost carriers have poor customer service with longer hold times due to fewer customer service agents.
They said: “Having reliable customer service is crucial, especially when dealing with travel disruptions.
“Poor service can turn a minor inconvenience into a major hassle.”
Tips for a smooth flight on a budget
To avoid the pitfalls of booking the cheapest flight, consider the following recommendations:
- Compare Total Costs: Look beyond the ticket price and consider the total cost, including baggage fees, seat selection, and other extras.
- Check Customer Reviews: Research the airline’s customer service reputation before booking. Websites and forums can provide insights into other travellers’ experiences.
- Evaluate Schedules: Choose flights with convenient departure and arrival times to minimise additional costs and travel stress.
- Consider Airport Location: Ensure the airport is easily accessible and has good transport links to your final destination.
- Prioritise Comfort: For longer flights, consider airlines that offer more legroom, better seat recline, and in-flight entertainment options
You should also factor in costs of transportation as cheaper airlines often operate from secondary airports that are farther away from the city.
And with cheap flights often leaving very early in the morning or late at night, you could end up with fewer transport options to choose from.
Ski Vertigo said: “Using secondary airports can offset any savings you might have made on the ticket price and add extra travel stress, particularly if you are unfamiliar with the area or if transport options are limited.”
Lastly, low-cost carriers are notorious for cramping seats together with some planes even ditching the recline option to fit in more seats.
Although it could be bearable on a short flight, stretching out or getting some shut-eye could prove challenging on a long-haul journey.
And while you’re struggling to rest, you can’t access in-flight entertainment to distract yourself either as it costs extra too.
To save money and improve your travel experience, sign up for fare alerts from multiple airlines and travel websites.
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These alerts notify you of price drops, allowing you to snag deals without constantly monitoring fares yourself.
On top of that, using credit cards that offer travel rewards can accumulate points that can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, or other travel-related expenses, reducing your overall costs.