Gulf low-cost carriers such as Air Arabia, flydubai, flynas and Jazeera Airways changed how we travel, opening many routes at prices that were not possible a few years ago. But the first price you see is usually "seat only". These are the items that raise the final price, and how to compare properly.
1. Checked baggage
Most basic fares include only a small cabin bag. Adding a bag online during booking is much cheaper than at the airport. For families, count the bags before comparing – a full-service ticket with baggage included can end up cheaper overall.
2. Fare bundles
Most airlines sell the same flight in several bundles: a basic fare without bags or changes, and higher bundles with a bag, a meal and flexibility. The difference between bundles is sometimes less than the price of the bag alone.
3. Seat selection
Without paying for seats you get random seats, and a family may be split up. If sitting together matters, add the seat cost to your comparison.
4. The farther airport
The cheapest flight may land at a secondary airport far from the city – Sabiha Gökçen in Istanbul, or Stansted and Luton in London. Count the transfer time and cost.
5. Changes and cancellations
The cheapest tickets are usually non-refundable, and changes cost a fee plus any fare difference. If your plans are uncertain, a flexible fare can be worth it.
Checklist before you pay
- How many bags, and how heavy?
- Do you need to sit together?
- Which airport, and what does the transfer cost?
- Are your dates fixed?
- Is the price per person or for everyone?
