Using budget airlines is one of the best ways to save money while traveling. Budget Airlines are able to cut costs by doing away with services found on most major carriers. This means sacrificing free drinks, snacks, and featuring only one class in the plane most of the time. Some budget airlines may offer better seats or “hot seats” on AirAsia which offer more space but are still found in the economy cabin. Most fly Airbus 320’s or Boeing 737’s in their fleets.
Some airlines also do not allow you to reserve a seat prior to boarding, such as RyanAir. Others may offer this service at an additional cost but it will vary. The point is these are no-frills airlines so don’t expect first class treatment but do expect first class safety.
Low cost airlines will also not use any other booking site than their own which is another cost saving method for you and them. Basically, the less free services offered the cheaper your flight will be.
The best way to counter the lack of services is to simply be prepared.
Things to Remember:
- Arrive early to the boarding area if there are no reserved seats
- Bring your own water bottle to fill up after you get through security
- Bring your own snacks
- Remember how much you saved on your ticket (this will make the any negative situation a little brighter)
Budget Airlines Resources
Using these sites you should be able to find more carriers than you may have known existed in the first place. You should then be able to save money while traveling abroad whenever you fly.
I have flown many budget airlines and had great experiences. The first time may feel a little strange, like when there are no reserved seats or snacks offered. The key is to remember you are saving money and it can spent at your next destination.
