Low-cost airlines can offer incredibly cheap base fares—but those bargains often come with a catch. By the time you add baggage, seat selection, boarding priority, and payment fees, the final price may rival (or exceed) a traditional airline ticket. The good news? With a little planning, you can avoid most hidden fees and keep your trip truly low-cost.
This guide breaks down the most common low-cost airline fees and shows you exactly how to avoid them.
Why low-cost airlines charge so many extra fees
Low-cost carriers (LCCs) operate on an unbundled pricing model. That means the advertised ticket usually includes:
- Only the seat
- Very limited personal item allowance
- No extras
Everything else is optional—but charged separately. This keeps headline fares attractive while allowing airlines to earn revenue through add-ons. Understanding this model is the first step to avoiding surprises.
Common hidden fees to watch out for
1. Baggage fees
This is the biggest cost trap.
- Personal item: Often free, but strictly size-limited
- Carry-on bag: Frequently costs extra
- Checked bag: Almost always costs more, especially at the airport
How to avoid it
- Measure your bag carefully before booking
- Travel with one compliant personal item when possible
- Prepay for bags online (airport fees are higher)
2. Seat selection fees
Want to sit next to your travel partner or choose a window seat? That usually costs extra.
How to avoid it
- Skip seat selection and accept random assignment
- Check in as early as allowed (some airlines assign better seats earlier)
- For short flights, seating location often matters less than you think
3. Carry-on vs personal item confusion
Many travelers assume a carry-on is included—it often isn’t.
How to avoid it
- Read the fare rules carefully before booking
- Compare the cost of “basic” vs “bundle” fares
- If you need a carry-on, buying a bundled fare may be cheaper
4. Airport check-in and boarding pass fees
Some low-cost airlines charge if you:
- Check in at the airport
- Print a boarding pass at the counter
How to avoid it
- Check in online or through the airline app
- Download and save your mobile boarding pass
- Screenshot the boarding pass in case of app issues
5. Payment and booking fees
Certain airlines charge extra for:
- Credit card payments
- Booking through call centers
How to avoid it
- Book directly on the airline’s website
- Use fee-free payment methods when available
- Avoid third-party booking sites that add service charges
6. Change and cancellation fees
Low fares are often non-refundable and expensive to change.
How to avoid it
- Double-check dates and names before booking
- Consider flexible fare options only if plans are uncertain
- Weigh the cost of flexibility vs rebooking later
Comparison table: Fees and how to avoid them
| Fee Type | Typical Cost | How to Avoid It |
| Carry-on bag | $20–$70 | Use a compliant personal item |
| Checked bag | $30–$100 | Prepay online or pack lighter |
| Seat selection | $5–$50 | Skip seat choice |
| Airport check-in | $10–$40 | Check in online |
| Boarding pass printing | $5–$20 | Use mobile boarding pass |
| Payment fee | $5–$15 | Use accepted fee-free payment |
Smart strategies to keep fares truly cheap
Compare “real” prices, not headline fares
When comparing airlines, add:
- Baggage fees
- Seat fees
- Payment fees
A slightly higher base fare on a traditional airline may actually be cheaper overall.
Read the fare breakdown before paying
Before clicking “confirm,” review:
- Baggage allowance
- Seat assignment rules
- Change and cancellation terms
If something is unclear, stop and double-check.
Pack strategically
- Use soft-sided bags that compress into size limits
- Wear bulky clothing on travel day
- Use packing cubes to maximize space
Avoid impulse add-ons
Low-cost airlines are excellent at upselling during checkout. Ask yourself:
- Do I really need priority boarding?
- Is seat selection worth it for this flight length?
When paying fees actually makes sense
Avoiding fees is great—but sometimes paying is the smarter choice:
- Long flights where seat comfort matters
- Trips with heavy luggage
- Tight schedules where priority boarding helps
The key is choosing fees intentionally, not being surprised by them.
Final thoughts
Low-cost airline tickets aren’t scams—but they require attention to detail. The cheapest travelers aren’t those who avoid every fee, but those who understand the rules and plan accordingly. By knowing what’s included, packing smart, and checking out carefully, you can enjoy genuinely low fares without budget-breaking surprises.
FAQ: Hidden Fees on Low-Cost Airlines
Q: Are low-cost airlines actually cheaper?
A: Often yes, but only if you travel light and skip extras. Once fees are added, prices may match traditional airlines.
Q: Is it cheaper to buy baggage during booking or later?
A: Almost always during booking. Airport and last-minute baggage fees are significantly higher.
Q: Can I bring both a personal item and a carry-on for free?
A: Rarely on low-cost airlines. Most allow only one personal item unless you pay.
Q: What happens if my bag is slightly oversized?
A: Low-cost airlines strictly enforce size limits. Oversized bags usually incur high gate-check fees.
Q: Do bundles save money?
A: Yes, if you need multiple extras (bag + seat + boarding). Otherwise, buying nothing is often cheapest.
Q: Are fees refundable if I cancel?
A: Usually not. Most add-ons are non-refundable even if the ticket is canceled.
