Budget airlines have become popular in recent times thanks to an increase in demand for super cheap tickets. However, are they all that good? Let’s look at some of the best and worst aspects of flying on a budget airline:
Having More Money to Spend after You Land
Obviously, the best perk of traveling by budget airline is that you can save hundreds of dollars on a plane ticket. That means more money to spend on your trip after you land. If you are on a vacation, this is great. If you are on a business trip, your employer might even feel kind enough to give you a stipend to spend wherever you go. Clearly, no one needs to spend more than they need on the plane ticket. Budget airlines can definitely minimize how much you spend on your trip.
Paying Extra for Luggage
The cheap tickets are cool. However, budget airlines often charge extra for luggage. If you are traveling light with just a carry-on, you’ll be fine. Nonetheless, if you have two suitcases along with you, you will have to spend several hundred dollars to take them with you, depending on the weight. Budget airlines are great for business travelers who tend to travel light. Family vacationers might want to travel light to a destination, and then use a regular airline on the way back with souvenirs.
Cut Down on Vacation Expenses
If you are on vacation in a big country, you may have to take domestic flights to certain destinations. Domestic budget airlines are the best option in this regard. They are super cheap and fast. In some cases, taking a budget flight domestically can be less expensive than booking a car or a tourist bus. When you are planning a vacation with a busy itinerary, budget airlines can be a lifesaver. You don’t have to pay luggage fees if you can leave your bags at a hotel or storage near the airport.
Basic Aircrafts
Do not expect in-flight entertainment systems inside budget aircraft. In fact, you may be lucky to get any entertainment sans a pack of cards. Budget airplanes are very basic. The interiors are small and only have the necessities to ensure safe air travel. So, if you are planning a long trip on a budget flight, you may want to bring your own entertainment. This would be a portable video game player that doesn’t require Wi-Fi or a good book. Keep your expectations to a minimum facility wise when you get onboard a budget flight.
Friendly Staff
Though budget airlines are cheaper and have only basic facilities, the service on offer is never subpar. Almost all budget airlines offer excellent in-flight services. There will, of course, be annoyances that you experience with brand name airliners as well. Now, you may not get complimentary drinks. However, you can be assured that the flight attendants will take good care of you and your family throughout the travel time.
When it comes down to it, budget airlines are very cheap and affordable. So what if you have to forgo an in-flight movie for that?
