When it comes to booking flights, budget airlines often catch the eye with their incredibly low ticket prices. But are these airlines truly saving you money, or are their hidden fees quietly draining your wallet? Shakeria Hawkins at KTNV explores this very question in her informative article titled "Are Budget Airlines Really Saving You Money? A Look at Hidden Fees and the Best Deals." Hawkins dives deep into the pricing tactics of major airlines and shares tips for travelers looking to maximize savings and avoid costly surprises.
Hawkins conducted a detailed analysis of flights from Las Vegas to Los Angeles on four airlines: Spirit, Frontier, Southwest, and Delta. Her findings reaffirm a common travel truth: what appears to be the cheapest ticket is not always the most affordable option. Airlines like Spirit and Frontier frequently lure travelers with ultra-low base fares, but the real costs emerge once you add popular services like carry-on baggage, seat selection, or even basic checked luggage. On the other hand, Southwest—a favorite among budget travelers for its transparent pricing model and free checked baggage policy—often proves to be the better deal for those who travel with more than just a carry-on.
One of the key takeaways from the article is just how impactful hidden airline fees can be. For instance, Spirit charges up to $99 for a carry-on bag if you wait to pay for it at the gate. Frontier has similar baggage fees that can quickly inflate a $50 ticket into something closer to $200 or more. By contrast, Southwest includes two free checked bags as part of its base fare, a massive benefit for travelers who need to bring additional luggage without paying extra. While many assume that legacy carriers like Delta—known for their higher base fares—are automatically more expensive, Delta’s fares can sometimes be comparable or even cheaper when baggage is taken into account.
Ultimately, Hawkins highlights how crucial it is for travelers to look beyond the ticket price plastered across airline websites and advertisements. A ticket on a budget carrier only saves you money if you’re traveling extremely light, carrying zero or minimal luggage, and are comfortable skipping premium add-ons like extra legroom or seat selection. For short, uncomplicated trips like weekend getaways, Spirit or Frontier could offer the best value. But if you’re flying with family, bringing checked bags, or booking a longer trip, airlines like Southwest or even Delta are often smarter choices.
The article doesn’t simply outline the pitfalls of budget airlines—it also shares savvy strategies to minimize or avoid extra costs altogether. Hawkins recommends booking with airlines like Southwest, which have the least confusing fee structures. Another tip is to avoid waiting until you’re at the airport to pay for baggage, as last-minute charges tend to cost significantly more. For example, paying for a checked or carry-on bag when booking the ticket is often cheaper than doing so at the gate. Travelers can also save by forgoing unnecessary services, such as paying to choose a seat, especially when flying solo. Additionally, airline credit cards that waive baggage fees or offer other perks can be a great investment for frequent travelers.
The article also includes insights from Audrey Cout, a travel expert, who warns that rising reliance on ancillary fees, even among airlines like Southwest, could signal a shift in the industry. Baggage fees, in particular, are a lucrative revenue stream for airlines, and as more carriers push fee-based pricing, air travel could become more expensive across the board. This underscores the importance of becoming a savvy traveler—someone who researches every aspect of ticket pricing to avoid surprises at check-in and at the airport.
Hawkins concludes her article with an important reminder: there is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing an airline. Travelers must assess their own circumstances and needs when booking flights. Do you tend to overpack? Do you prioritize seat selection or extra legroom? Or are you a minimalist traveler who can live out of a tiny carry-on for days on end? By comparing all potential costs—not just the base fare—you can ensure you get the best deal possible, whether that means choosing a budget airline like Spirit or a more inclusive carrier like Southwest.
In the end, the notion that budget airlines always provide the cheapest option is a myth. They may be perfect for some scenarios, but as Hawkins wisely states, a traveler's best defense against overspending is awareness. By doing a little homework and carefully calculating for hidden fees, you can make an informed decision and find the right airline to suit your trip needs and, most importantly, your budget.