Plan Ahead and Dress Wisely: How to Minimise Add-On Costs When You Fly
The cost of flying can often surprise travelers, especially when it comes to add-on fees. Many budget airlines, like easyJet, have faced scrutiny for advertising deceivingly low prices, particularly for carry-on bags. While the ticket prices may appear attractive, many passengers find themselves paying separately for luggage, seat selection, and priority boarding. These add-on fees, or ancillary revenue, generate billions for airlines annually. While some charges are unavoidable—especially when traveling with children—there are effective strategies to minimize these costs.
1. Be Ruthless When It Comes to Packing
– Understand Carry-On Costs: Laura Anne Sargeant, known as Travelling Page Turner, advises that advertised low carry-on fees are often misleading. It’s usually closer to £20, she states. easyJet recently faced reprimand for failing to provide evidence for claiming a lower price of £5.99.
– Check Availability: Consumer rights group Which? found that budget airlines often do not provide advertised prices for carry-on luggage. Out of 634 Ryanair flights, their lowest advertised price was accessible just twice.
– Pack Smart: Laura Anne recommends packing with intention, using hotel amenities like body wash and foregoing personal items like hairdryers. Traveling companions can also share one suitcase, cutting costs.
Wendie Smith from Bristol, a solo traveler heading to Southeast Asia for two weeks, opts for a soft backpack. It squeezes into their cages a bit better than a solid one,” she explains. Wendie’s best-kept secret is her dry robe with large pockets, perfect for sneaking in extra essentials. “They can’t tell you what to wear on a plane, she adds.
Travel influencer Chelsea Dickenson also faces the challenge of packing efficiently. She suggests stashing heavier items in clothing pockets, asserting, Airlines weigh your bag, but they don’t weigh you! Investing in pocketed vests marketed as a travel hack can help, too. If you do plan to check a bag, ensure you pay for it early to avoid inflated prices at the airport.
2. Double Check the Airline’s Cabin Bag Rules
– Know the Limits: Chelsea warns travelers to be aware of the subtle differences in cabin bag regulations among airlines. Always measure your bag and consult the airline’s website for exact dimensions. “A bag labelled ‘cabin size’ does not guarantee compliance,” she cautions.
– Innovative Solutions: Luggage manufacturers have recognized these issues, creating bags with detachable wheels to help travelers meet strict guidelines easily. Simply take the wheels off when it’s time to board, Chelsea suggests.
3. Don’t Fall for Sneaky Sales Tactics
– Seat Selection: During the booking process, some airlines imply that seat reservations require additional payment. If you don’t have a preference and are comfortable being seated randomly, let the airline assign you a seat.
– Priority Boarding Pitfalls: Laura Anne believes that paying for priority boarding is often unnecessary. If the overhead bins fill up, you won’t incur extra charges for checked luggage; you’ll just wait longer for it on arrival.
– Be Cautious with Extras: The booking process often pushes add-on services that may not be worth the cost. While there might be value in booking accommodation or transfers, Laura Anne argues that airline insurance is rarely a good deal.
Conclusion
Planning ahead and making thoughtful packing choices are key to minimizing add-on costs when you fly. By understanding airline policies, avoiding misleading offers, and being strategic with your luggage, you can make your journey more affordable. With these tips, you can navigate the complexities of air travel while keeping your expenses in check, ensuring a smoother flying experience without the unexpected price tags.