Flying doesn’t need to be expensive, especially if you know where and how to look for low-cost flights. Low-cost carriers have disrupted the travel landscape, offering unbeatable deals for consumers willing to give up a little space or complimentary in-flight food. But with so many options to choose from, it is hard to know which low-cost carriers are good to deal with or how to find the lowest possible fares.
This guide examines the world’s best budget airlines and provides you with insider tips on how to find the cheapest flights so you can spend less to get there and more on having fun when you’re there.
Why Budget Airlines Are a Game-Changer for Travelers
Low-cost airlines win over thrifty fliers by eliminating much of the traditional airline frill. Instead of offering treats like complimentary meals or elaborate business-class fares, they’re all about the essentials—getting you from A to B on the cheap.
Benefits of Low-Cost Airlines:
- Low Fees: Most frequently, their price is 20-50% less than the usual airlines for the same route.
- Other Destinations: Certain low-cost airlines have unique routes, connecting far-flung airports and secondary cities.
- Good for Short Trips: Great for quick trips where comfort is not a priority.
But there are compromises:
- Bag fees add up fast.
- Seats can be cramped for taller travelers.
- Extras (even water!) are usually charged.
Keeping that in mind, budget airlines remain one of the best ways for travelers to see more for less.
The Best Budget Airlines to Trust
A glance at some of the world’s highest-rated low-cost carriers follows.
North America
| Airline | Why It Stands Out | Destinations |
| Southwest Airlines | Free checked baggage (2 pieces!) | US domestic flights, some in Mexico |
| Allegiant Air | A focus on unserved small cities | US, select Caribbean destinations |
| JetBlue | Free Wi-Fi and spacious seating | US, Latin America, Caribbean |
Europe
| Airline | Noteworthy Feature | Destinations |
| Ryanair | Ultra-low fares, frequent sales | Key European and North African cities |
| Wizz Air | Affordable for Eastern Europe travel | Europe, Middle East, Asia |
| easyJet | Impressive UK-Europe connectivity | Europe, North Africa |
Asia-Pacific
| Airline | What makes it unique | Destinations |
| AirAsia | High-quality at a low cost | Asia, Australia, New Zealand |
| Scoot | Budget airline under Singapore Airlines with options | Asia, Australia, Europe |
| Jetstar | Operated by Qantas, often great deals | Asia-Pacific region |
Carefully reading their hand-luggage, seat-selection, and possible connection/layover fee policies while booking flights on low-cost carriers is crucial. Sites like Skytrax can be consulted to measure passenger review rankings.
Pro Tips for Getting the Best Flight Discounts
Bargain airfare hunting is not just a matter of flying on low-cost airlines. With some smart planning and tools, it’s often possible to save hundreds on your fares.
1. Be Flexible in Dates and Destinations
Holidays, weekends, and summer are when carriers raise prices. If you can travel during slower times (midweek or shoulder seasons), you’ll pay much less.
Tool to use: Google Flights has calendar view displays of price trends.
2. Set Price Alerts
Tools like Skyscanner and Kayak allow you to track prices for specific routes. When prices drop, you’ll be alerted.
3. Book in Advance or Super Last Minute
While it’s not always so, booking 2-3 months in advance usually scores you a deal. Or, last-minute flights sometimes plummet in price if airlines are grasping at straws trying to fill the plane.
4. Utilize Budget Airline Search Engines
Platforms like Momondo and Kiwi.com are excellent for uncovering budget airlines that might not appear in traditional search engines.
5. Avoid Hidden Fees
The base ticket price might seem like a steal, but be wary of add-ons:
- Check baggage limits before packing.
- Print your boarding pass in advance to avoid fees.
- Skip the seat selection fee for quick flights—just go with the auto-assigned option.
6. Consider Nearby Airports
Flying in or out of secondary airports (e.g., Paris Beauvais instead of Charles de Gaulle) can cost much less, even after factoring transport costs.
Should You Always Book Directly with Budget Airlines?
You might be tempted to use aggregators to buy your ticket, but going directly to the airline’s website usually displays offers that are not advertised. Become a member of the airline’s frequent flyer programs if you can—Southwest Airlines and Wizz Air usually reward regular flyers with special deals.
One major exception, though, is having cancellations or changes go smoothly. Websites like Expedia might provide more customer assistance for smoothing out last-minute travel mishaps.
Budget Travelers’ Key Takeaways
Bargain-hunting and low-cost carriers can take a little extra effort—but the reward is well worth it. Destination fantasies become attainable, and vacations become more common when you’re paying less to get there.
If you’re ready to start planning your next big adventure, check out Skyscanner or Google Flights. Compare flights, set price alerts, and explore where your budget fares can take you.
Happy travels, and may your next booked ticket open the doors to an incredible experience!