Flying on a budget airlines: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.

I recently discovered the beauty of direct flights to far away places through Scott’s Cheap Flights or seasonal flight deals.  There’s a whole world of budget airlines that will get you to your desired destination, but there are a few things you’ll want to know ahead of time.

1.     Water situation.  There isn’t any.  We were surprised to discover on a 6+ hour flight from New York City to Paris that Norwegian Airlines does not serve any complimentary beverages.  Bring your own water bottle and fill up once inside security.  You’ll be glad you planned ahead instead of being charged for a tiny cup of H20.

2.     Snacks.  Also not included.  Pack your own airplane friendly snacks you can enjoy while some passengers enjoy the meals they purchased through the airline ahead of time.  Also give yourself enough time to get a meal before boarding.

3.     Extras: Everything you ever took for granted as being part of your airline ticket is probably NOT included.   You can pay extra for an assigned seat ahead of time, or roll the dice upon check in and hope you’re not stuck in a middle seat for seven hours.  Headphones: my iPhone headphones were not compatible with the in flight entertainment, and I was forced to purchase a pair of cheap headphones on IcelandAir.  Rest assured, I remembered them for my Norwegian Air flight and can confirm they survive more than one use.  If you get cold, make sure to wear enough layers or bring your own blanket (Pro tip: a blanket scarf doubles as a great…blanket).  And finally, checked bags or even carry-ons could cost you extra.  We naively thought we could get to Iceland, in the winter, with just checked bags.  As the flight got closer, we bit the bullet and paid for a checked bag – there was a separate charge for the departing as well as arriving flight, so don’t be fooled by the initial price you are quoted.  Pro tip: if you pay in advance, you’ll get 20% off as opposed to checking a bag day of, at the airport.

4.     In flight entertainment.  Not all international flights will have in flight entertainment.  Or, you could have a situation I had with a non stop flickering screen to stare at for hours on end that would both NOT turn off, but also not stop flashing.  Download some Netflix ahead of time, just incase.

5.     Pay attention to which airport you’re coming and going from.  Many years ago, we thought we were flying from Rome to Paris: wrong.  We were leaving Rome but ended up in a small town an hour outside of Paris, which really ruined our plan to get to the Eiffel Tour in time to see fireworks.  A lot of budget airlines save you money by flying out of lesser known airports (i.e., Stewart International Airport an hour north of New York, instead of JFK in New York City).

Bottom line: flying on a budget airline can be an affordable option to living your best life without breaking the bank.  Save your money for delicious dinners, memorable excursions and adult beverages at your desired destination.  With a little advanced planning, the budget airline experience can be a seamless way to get to your next adventure.