The low cost phenomenon started in the United States more than 30 years ago with cheap flights at half the price of traditional airlines and later spread to other areas, not just flights, but low cost holidays, telephones, clothing, hotels, and even to the automobile industry.
In Europe, low cost flights are well known because of the budget carriers Ryanair and easyJet, airlines specifically defined as "low cost", but today the term is also used for cheap flights with airlines that are generally more expensive. To assess the cost of a flight, it is avisable that you compare prices, flight schedules, the airports used, and the distance from the city centre, services available, and any extra costs, for example on checked luggage, before buying. Keep reading for more tips on flying with low cost airlines.
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If you can, book in advance so that you get the best deal. Last minute flights are generally more expensive, depending on the time of year you book of course.
If you are flexible with the travel dates, try to fly during the low season or during weekdays, not just the weekend when prices are generally higher.
Compare several flights by more than just price. It is best to do a side-by-side comparison of several low cost airlines as they differ in flight schedules, and this also influences the final price.
Low cost airlines such as Ryanair often fly to secondary airports, whereas easyJet generally flies to the most important airports of many cities in Europe. Airlines which fly to secondary airports are sometimes cheaper. However, the distance to the city is often longer meaning more money will be spent on transportation to the centre. Something to consider when evaluating costs.
Remember to pay checked baggage fees when booking online. Baggage fees are cheaper when paid online prior to your flight.
Low cost airlines keep their airfares down by offering only a basic, "no frills" service. Therefore, you will have to pay if you want to eat or drink on board, and there are fines for overweight baggage or any changes made to your tickets.
Low cost airlines are normally more punctual compared to standard airlines, so it is essential to get to the airport early enough to check-in and/or check any luggage. The check-in desk closing and boarding times differ between airlines so it is important to check this ahead of time.
Check the identification documents that each company accepts as it may vary from airline to airline. For example, Ryanair does not allow driving licences as a valid form of identification.
Find the best deals and offers on low-cost flights with eDreams. Here you can find a list of low-cost airlines (budget carriers) with flight promos to many major European cities.
Ryanair is Europe's largest low-cost airline and has enjoyed great success since its inception. Ryanair operates flights to Milan, Paris, Dublin, Rome, Brussels, Barcelona, Frankfurt, Porto, Pisa, Liverpool, etc.
Ryanair flightsFor cheap flights to many routes in Europe, EasyJet is another good option. It operates flights to Malaga, Alicante, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Paris, Rome, Dortmund, Faro, Ibiza, Lisbon, Menorca, Nice, Palma de Mallorca, Manchester, etc.
Easyjet flightsVueling, a prominent Spanish low-cost carrier, holds a significant position in southern Europe's aviation landscape. The airline offers an extensive network of flights connecting Spain, Belgium, France, and Italy, encompassing major cities like Amsterdam, Lisbon, Bilbao, and Valencia, as well as popular destinations such as Ibiza.
Vueling flightsWith its extensive network, the low-cost airline Wizz Air operates flights to Budapest, Bucharest, Sofia, Warsaw, and numerous other destinations across Europe and beyond.
Wizz Air flightsThe low-cost airline Transavia was founded in 1966 and belongs to Air France-KLM. It operates flights to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Glasgow, Venice, Milan, etc.
Transavia flightsEstablished in 1974, British Airways is a leading airline headquartered in the United Kingdom and part of the International Airlines Group (IAG). It operates routes spanning Europe and the globe, providing flights to major destinations like London, Paris, New York, Tokyo, and Sydney.
British Airways flightsEstablished in 2002, Jet2 is a prominent airline based in the United Kingdom. It operates flights primarily within Europe and is renowned for its holiday and leisure travel services. Jet2 offers a wide range of destinations across Europe, including popular cities like Barcelona, Rome, Amsterdam, and Prague, as well as holiday resorts such as the Balearic and Canary Islands.
Jet2 flights