Tip #1 Searching
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When it comes to searching for that cheap flight we all hear about, but never fully believe could be true, there is one important tip to keep in mind. It pays to go incognito. What does that mean you ask? Well, there is a lovely tool called the incognito browser that prevents booking websites from recognizing your IP address and raising the ticket prices.
Tip #2 Pay attention to detail!
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Another extremely helpful tip when it comes to cheap flights is make sure to pay attention to the details. Often time’s cheap flights do not fly into the luxurious newly updated airports right outside of or even within the city. So you will need to research and find a way to travel from the airport to the city. Sometimes this makes us wonder are the flights worth it then? You betcha! There is a huge difference between a $200 ticket, and a $30 ticket plus a $15 dollar bus ride. I would also use this tip for any and every flight you search for. It is never a bad idea to make sure you have the correct city, date, and times. I almost booked a flight with a layover that had me changing airports in NYC. So just remember to not get too rushed and pay attention to every detail.
Tip #3 Packing
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Oh packing…it is never easy. Well, cheap flights like Ryanair do their best to simplify packing for you! Taking in the tip #2, make sure to thoroughly read the requirements for luggage on these cheap flights, and whatever you do, do not check a bag. I say this because the reason you are getting such a great deal is because you are not checking any luggage. As soon as you check a bag the fees start arriving. These flights are not meant for around the world trips. They are cheap and easy transportation for weekend or short vacations. So really a carry on is all you need! Don’t forget to pay attention to detail when you are choosing your carry on bag. These airlines tend to be very specific with their rules on luggage. When they say one bag that means one bag, not a bag and a personal item.
Tip #4 The Night Before
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This might be the easiest tip to forget when it comes to flying cheap. Make sure to check in and print your ticket the night before. So if you are in another country or city make sure to find a place you can print, like your hostel or an internet café. Most cheap airlines, (like Ryanair cough cough) will add a fee if you check in at the airport. These extra fees add up quickly so pay attention to the details. The more you do the cheaper the flight.
Tip #5 Almost there!
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Finally, if you are like me and run on your own time which happens to be “few” minutes late, maybe set your clock back a bit. Most of these flights are first come first serve for you and your bags. So if you want a specific seat, or just don’t want to struggle to find a spot for your bag, make sure to show up early and get in line.
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Now I know this all seems like a huge hassle and you might be saying right now, “is this worth it?”. Trust me it is! I know friends who have found weekend flights as low as 20 euros or cheaper! I myself found flights in the 30 euro range and trust me it was most definitely worth it, just to hear the Ryanair jingle at the end of the flight!
By: Antoinette Longcrier, Graduate Assistant and HogsAbroad Alum in Spain
