Low-cost carriers can be genuinely cheap, if you play by their rules.
The usual extras
- Bags: often only a small under-seat item is free. Cabin bags and checked bags cost extra, and paying at the airport costs the most.
- Seats: random seats are free; choosing costs extra.
- Check-in: some airlines charge for airport check-in or for printing a boarding pass. Check in online.
- Size checks: bags that exceed the sizer at the gate get charged a steep fee.
Beat the fees
- Measure and weigh your bag at home against the airline's exact limits.
- Add bags when booking, not later.
- Check in online within the window and save the boarding pass to your phone.
- Compare the total with a full-service fare before booking.