Low-cost airlines have revolutionized travel, making it possible for more and more people to explore the world. However, low ticket prices are often just the tip of the iceberg. If we are not aware of the hidden costs, we can easily be disappointed, and the final bill can significantly exceed the original budget. In this article, we will review the most common hidden costs in detail, to help make travel planning more transparent and find the best deal on Unifly.hu.
Baggage: the most common pitfall
Low-cost airlines strictly limit the size and weight of checked and carry-on baggage. In most cases, the size of carry-on baggage is limited (usually 55x40x20 cm), and its weight should not exceed 10 kg. If your baggage exceeds these limits, you will be forced to pay on the spot, which is often much more expensive than purchasing checked baggage in advance. It is worth checking the airline's baggage rules in advance, and if you know you want to take more baggage, it is worth purchasing checked baggage options online during the booking process. Don't forget that you also have to pay for excess weight, so it is worth checking the weight of your baggage before departure. On Unifly.hu, we clearly display the baggage rules and associated costs during the booking process, so you can avoid unpleasant surprises.
Seat Selection: You Have to Pay for Comfort
Low-cost airlines generally do not include the cost of seat selection in the base price. If you want to secure a specific seat for yourself – for example, by the window, in the aisle, or next to your family – you have to pay a separate fee. The price of seat selection may vary depending on the airline, the length of the flight, and the location. If you do not pay for seat selection, the airline will randomly assign seats, which may mean that you will not sit next to your family members, or you may be assigned a less comfortable seat. On Unifly.hu, you have the option to purchase seat selection during the booking process, so you can secure the most suitable seat for you.
Payment Methods: You Have to Pay for Convenient Payment Too
Low-cost airlines often charge a fee for payment by credit card. In most cases, payment by bank transfer is free of charge, but this is not the case with all airlines. It is worth paying attention to the costs associated with payment methods, and if possible, choose the free payment method. On Unifly.hu, we transparently display the costs associated with payment methods, so you can easily choose the best option for you.
Other Hidden Costs
In addition to the costs mentioned above, many other hidden costs may arise on a low-cost flight. These include:
- Check-in at the airport: Some airlines charge a fee for airport check-in, so it is worth checking in online for the flight.
- Drinks and food: Low-cost airlines generally do not include the cost of food and drinks in the base price.
- Priority boarding: If you want to board the plane earlier and secure more space for your carry-on baggage, you can purchase priority boarding.
- Change or cancellation: Changing or canceling your ticket often involves high fees, so it is worth carefully considering the booking before finalizing it.
Unifly.hu helps you avoid these hidden costs by transparently displaying all the airlines' fees and rules. In addition, we compare the offers of different airlines, ensuring that you get the best price.
How to Save Money with Low-Cost Airlines?
To save money with low-cost airlines, it is worth following these tips:
- Book in advance: The earlier you book, the more likely you are to find cheaper tickets.
- Be flexible with your travel dates: If possible, choose travel dates that do not fall during peak season.
- Travel with carry-on baggage: If you are only traveling for a few days and do not need much baggage, try to travel with carry-on baggage.
- Check the airline's baggage rules: Before packing, check the airline's baggage rules to avoid excess baggage fees.
- Choose a free payment method: If possible, choose payment by bank transfer.
- Use the Unifly.hu comparison function: Unifly.hu helps you find the best deals among different airlines.