Travel expert warns of the hidden cost of booking the cheapest flights

A travel expert has warned holidaymakers about the pitfalls of booking the cheapest flights. Ski Vertigo, a renowned travel specialist, has outlined the key reasons why opting for the cheapest flight might not be the best decision.

It might seem like a good idea to save money on airfare, but it could end up costing you more in the long run. According to Ski Vertigo, budget airlines often have a number of hidden fees that can catch you by surprise.

A spokesperson explained: “The initial price of a cheap flight often does not reflect the total cost of your trip. Low-cost carriers usually charge extra for a variety of services that traditional airlines include in their ticket prices. These additional costs can quickly add up and sometimes exceed the price of the flight itself.”

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If you’re traveling with more than a backpack, you might pay a hefty fee for carry-on or check-in bags. Budget airlines may also charge extra for in-flight food and beverages, seat selection and even booking fees.

Budget airlines are known for their strict policies on refunds, cancellations and changes, which could end up costing you more if you have to make last-minute adjustments. Flights on these airlines often have inconvenient schedules, meaning you could be stuck if there’s a cancellation and the airline doesn’t operate multiple daily flights.

Ski Vertigo also warns of poor customer service due to fewer customer service agents, resulting in longer wait times. They stated: “Having reliable customer service is essential, especially when experiencing travel disruption. Poor service can turn a minor inconvenience into a major hassle.”

It’s also important to consider transportation costs, as budget airlines often operate from secondary airports that are further from city centers. Moreover, cheap flights often depart very early in the morning or late at night, leaving you with limited transport options. Ski Vertigo added: “Using secondary airports can offset any savings you might have made on the ticket price and add extra stress to the trip, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or have limited transportation options.”

Finally, low-cost carriers are notorious for cramming seats together, with some planes even removing the recline option to fit more seats. While this may be tolerable on a short flight, it could make it difficult to lie down or sleep on a long-haul trip. And while you struggle to rest, you also can’t access in-flight entertainment to distract yourself because it costs even more.