Flying with a budget airline can look like a deal until you check the fine print. That $49 fare can easily climb to triple digits once the extra charges start adding up. Many low-cost carriers rely heavily on fees for things like bags, seat selection, and even printing a boarding pass. None of it breaks the rules, but it catches plenty of travelers off guard.
Here’s what to watch for before you book.
Carry-On Bags That Are Not Free
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Most people assume that a carry-on bag is included in the ticket price. Budget airlines often charge $20 to $75 just to bring one. They also set minimal size limits, so a regular backpack might not qualify.
Paying to Choose Your Seat
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If you want to sit next to your family or friends, you have to pay for it. Seat selection costs $10–$50 per flight segment, with carriers like Ryanair and Frontier often separating travelers who opt not to pay the fee. Each leg is charged separately, making round-trip costs add up fast.
Online Check-In Deadlines
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Many budget airlines close online check-in hours before departure, sometimes as early as 40 minutes before full-service carriers. If you miss that window, you may face costly airport check-in or reissue fees, which can easily turn a cheap ticket into an expensive mistake.
Extra Baggage Weight and Size
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Budget airlines are very strict about baggage limits. Even 1 kg over the limit can lead to a hefty fee. Spirit charges up to $79–$125 for overweight or oversize bags, while easyJet enforces strict limits and charges extra at the gate. Gate sizers enforce the rules automatically and leave little room for negotiation.
Priority Boarding
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Many travelers pay $10 to $30 for priority boarding just to get space in the overhead bins. If you do not pay, you might be one of the last to board and have to check your bag at the gate, which can delay pickup and add unexpected hassle.
Airport Check-In Desk Fees
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Expect to pay $15 to $25 if you check in at the counter instead of using the app or kiosk. The airlines claim it speeds up check-in, but it is just a penalty for those who don't use technology. Keep this in mind if you are traveling with someone who does not use apps.
Food and Drinks on the Plane
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Budget airlines typically offer no complimentary beverages, including water. Ryanair and Spirit charge around $3 to $4 for bottled water, and in-flight food items, such as sandwiches or snacks, often cost between $7 and $10. Carrying your own food is allowed and more economical.
Changing or Canceling Your Flight
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If your plans change, you may have to pay a significant amount. Changing a flight can cost $50 to $150, and most tickets are non-refundable. In 2023, a traveler was charged $140 to fix a single letter in their name. Buying travel insurance can help.
Card Processing and Booking Fees
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Some airlines add a small “processing fee” when you pay. It is usually 2% to 3% of the total cost. That might not sound like much, but on a $500 ticket, it is about $15. Sometimes you can avoid this by using certain cards or paying directly from your bank account.
High Infant and Lap Child Fees
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Even without a seat, infants often come with fees. Ryanair charges a flat €25 per infant per flight. Others charge a percentage of the adult fare or add administrative costs. Baby gear like strollers and car seats may also count toward luggage limits. It’s important to note that this policy for infants (lap children) varies widely by airline, route (domestic vs international), and region.