How To Avoid Extra Fees When Booking With Discount Airlines

Discount airlines such as Allegiant, Frontier and Spirit provide customers with budget-friendly prices. However, there is a catch. Those low fares rely on limited travel dates, minimal perks and extra service fees.

Although budget airlines can save you some serious dough, make sure you don’t fall for any of the additional expenses. Follow these money-saving hacks before booking your next flight.

Don’t Choose Your Seat

Premium seats are at a premium price. If you want to keep your ticket at a minimum, you need to forego perks including extra legroom and sitting next to your travel companion. Also note that budget airlines will attempt to trick you into choosing a seat. Simply find the ‘Next’ or ‘Skip’ buttons to avoid this option.

Don’t Pay Excess Luggage Fees

Discount airlines are strict with their luggage allowances. Be sure to find the required measurements of your bag (located on their website). If traveling with a friend or family member, consider packing only one piece of luggage between the two of you. Splitting the cost of one bag is significantly less than paying for your own.

Remember that you are allowed one free personal item; the measurement varies and is provided by airline but is usually the size of a small backpack. If possible, pack light and use this as your only bag.

Bring Your Own Snacks

There are some people who would prefer to fly on an airline that provides complimentary beverages. I, on the other hand, would prefer to pay less and just bring my own goodies. Go to Aldi, Target, Trader Joe’s or your local grocery store and stock up on snacks. Remember that any liquid larger than 3.4 ounces is not permitted through security so pick up a bottle of water once near your gate.

And don't forget that you can still get deals on non-budget airlines when you use a discount gift card. 

Do you fly on any budget airlines? Comment with your suggestions below.