Affordable Airlines for Thrifty Travelers

When planning a trip, the cost of airfare is often one of the biggest concerns. Fortunately, budget airlines offer affordable fares – domestically within the United States and internationally. This can be a great way to save money and make it to that destination on your Travel Bucket List. 

However, it's important to understand where these airlines primarily operate, their baggage policies, and the average cost of a ticket (meaning what the ticket price actually includes). This guide will help you navigate the best options for your next adventure.

Cheapest Airlines for Domestic Travel in the U.S.

Southwest Airlines

• Primary Operations: Southwest Airlines is well-known for its extensive domestic network, serving over 100 destinations across the United States. Major hubs include Dallas Love Field (DAL), Chicago Midway (MDW), and Baltimore/Washington (BWI).
• Baggage Policy: Southwest stands out for its generous baggage policy, allowing two free checked bags per passenger. Carry-on bags are also free of charge.
• Average Cost: Southwest's fares vary, but a typical one-way domestic ticket ranges from $50 to $150. The airline is known for its "Wanna Get Away" fares, which offer the lowest prices when booked early.
  
  

Spirit Airlines

• Primary Operations: Spirit Airlines operates primarily in the United States, with hubs in Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Orlando (MCO), and Las Vegas (LAS). It also serves destinations in the Caribbean and Latin America.
• Baggage Policy: Spirit Airlines charges for both checked and carry-on baggage. Expect to pay around $35 to $65 for a carry-on and $30 to $50 for a checked bag, depending on when you purchase.
• Average Cost: Spirit's fares are known for being incredibly low, with one-way domestic flights often available for as little as $20 to $100. However, be prepared for additional fees for almost everything beyond your seat.
  
  

Frontier Airlines

• Primary Operations: Frontier Airlines operates across the U.S. with major hubs in Denver (DEN), Orlando (MCO), and Las Vegas (LAS). The airline also flies to select international destinations in the Caribbean and Mexico.
• Baggage Policy: Frontier charges for carry-on and checked baggage. Fees range from $35 to $60 for carry-on and $30 to $55 for checked bags, depending on when and how you pay.
• Average Cost: Frontier is another ultra-low-cost carrier, with fares often ranging from $20 to $100 for a one-way ticket. However, similar to Spirit, the base fare only covers the seat, and additional fees can add up quickly.

Cheapest Airlines for International Travel

Norwegian Air Shuttle

• Primary Operations: Norwegian Air operates primarily between Europe and the United States, with major hubs in Oslo (OSL), Copenhagen (CPH), and Stockholm (ARN). It offers long-haul flights to various U.S. cities and other global destinations.
• Baggage Policy: Norwegian offers different ticket types, with LowFare tickets charging for checked luggage (around $50 to $100 per bag) and including a small carry-on for free. Upgraded tickets (LowFare+ and beyond) include checked baggage.
• Average Cost: Norwegian Air is known for its affordable transatlantic fares, with one-way tickets from the U.S. to Europe often available for $150 to $300. Booking well in advance and being flexible with dates can result in the best deals.
  
  

Ryanair

• Primary Operations: Ryanair is a European low-cost airline with extensive operations across the continent. It serves over 200 destinations, including major and secondary airports, with hubs in Dublin (DUB), London Stansted (STN), and Milan Bergamo (BGY).
• Baggage Policy: Ryanair offers low fares with strict baggage policies. Passengers can bring a small personal item for free, but carry-on bags and checked luggage incur additional fees. Carry-on fees range from $10 to $30, and checked baggage costs $20 to $60.
• Average Cost: Ryanair’s fares can be as low as $10 to $50 for short flights within Europe. However, these prices are typically for off-peak travel, and fees for baggage and other services can increase the total cost.
  
  

EasyJet

• Primary Operations: EasyJet is another major European low-cost carrier, operating flights across Europe with hubs in London Gatwick (LGW), Milan Malpensa (MXP), and Berlin (BER). The airline also serves some destinations in North Africa and the Middle East.
• Baggage Policy: EasyJet allows one small cabin bag per passenger for free. Fees for additional carry-on or checked luggage range from $10 to $40 for carry-on and $25 to $50 for checked bags.
• Average Cost: EasyJet offers competitive fares, with one-way tickets typically ranging from $20 to $100, depending on the route and booking time. Like other low-cost carriers, additional fees can apply.

Key Considerations When Booking with Low-Cost Airlines

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While these airlines offer some of the lowest fares in the industry, it’s important to be aware of potential hidden costs. Low-cost carriers often charge for services that traditional airlines include in the ticket price, such as seat selection, baggage, and in-flight refreshments. To get the best deal:

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• Book Early: Budget airlines often have the lowest prices when tickets are first released.
• Travel Light: Avoid baggage fees by packing efficiently and taking only a small personal item when possible.
• Stay Flexible: Being flexible with travel dates can help you take advantage of the cheapest fares.
• Check Airports: Some budget airlines fly into secondary airports, which may be further from your destination city. Be sure to factor in additional transportation costs.
• Read the Fine Print: Some airlines charge for online/app check-in while others assign boarding groups based on check-in time. Read the fine print so there are no unpleasant surprises when you go to fly. 

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Budget airlines can be a great way to travel affordably if you’re willing to navigate their specific policies and fees. By understanding where these airlines operate, their baggage policies, and average ticket prices, you can make informed decisions that keep your travel costs low. Happy flying!