How Can You Minimize Add-On Costs When Flying?

EasyJet has recently faced criticism from the UK's advertising watchdog for misleading customers about the costs associated with carry-on luggage. As budget airlines often promote low ticket prices while charging significant fees for add-ons—like luggage, seat selection, and priority boarding—passengers are increasingly seeking ways to avoid these extra charges. This article explores effective strategies to minimise or eliminate carry-on bag fees when flying with budget airlines.

Last updated: 25 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

This week, easyJet was reprimanded by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) for its misleading advertising regarding carry-on bag prices. The airline claimed that passengers could bring a carry-on for as low as £5.99, a figure that has been deemed unsubstantiated. This revelation highlights a broader issue within the budget airline industry, where the practice of charging for extras has become commonplace, often leading to confusion and frustration among travellers. Many budget airlines, including Ryanair and Wizz Air, have also been scrutinised for similar pricing discrepancies.

Key takeaways

• EasyJet has been found to misadvertise the cost of carry-on luggage.
• Many budget airlines charge significantly more than advertised for luggage.
• Effective packing strategies can help avoid additional baggage fees.
• Booking luggage early can prevent higher costs closer to departure.
• Understanding airline policies is crucial to avoid unexpected charges.

Timeline: how we got here

Understanding the timeline of events surrounding easyJet's misleading claims can provide context for travellers. Key dates include:

• September 2023: EasyJet promotes carry-on bag prices starting at £5.99.
• October 2023: The ASA intervenes after receiving complaints about the accuracy of easyJet's advertising.
• October 2023: EasyJet is ordered to cease misleading claims regarding low carry-on bag prices.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The ASA's ruling against easyJet is a significant development, as it may lead to increased scrutiny of other budget airlines regarding their pricing practices. The authority's intervention could also pave the way for further regulations in the airline industry aimed at protecting consumer rights.

What was already established

It is well-known that budget airlines, such as easyJet and Ryanair, often advertise low ticket prices but generate substantial revenue through ancillary fees, which include charges for carry-on luggage. Consumers have frequently reported that the actual costs of these additional services are often much higher than initially advertised.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For UK consumers, the recent developments may lead to greater awareness of the true costs associated with budget airlines. Passengers should scrutinise pricing carefully to avoid unexpected charges, especially when travelling with children or needing more luggage space. As a result, families and solo travellers might rethink their packing strategies or opt for alternative transport methods if costs become prohibitive.

Businesses and jobs

The airline industry's reliance on ancillary revenue means that businesses may have to adjust their pricing strategies in response to regulatory scrutiny. Should other airlines follow easyJet's lead, we may see shifts in employment practices within the travel sector as companies strive to enhance transparency and customer satisfaction.

Policy and regulation

The ASA's ruling could prompt a wider regulatory review of advertising practices within the airline industry. If successful, this may lead to stricter regulations governing how airlines present their prices and additional fees, fostering a more transparent environment for consumers.

Numbers that matter

• £5.99: The misleading carry-on price claimed by easyJet, which the ASA found unsubstantiated.
• £20: The typical carry-on bag fee reported by frequent travellers like Laura Anne Sargeant.
• 634 flights: The number of flights checked by Which? to assess the availability of Ryanair's lowest advertised price of £12, which was only found twice.
• 338 flights: The number of flights checked for Wizz Air's advertised price of €10, also found just twice.
• 2 weeks: The duration of Wendie Smith's upcoming trip to south-east Asia, during which she will only take a backpack to avoid luggage fees.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Ancillary revenue: Additional income generated by airlines through services beyond the basic ticket price, such as baggage fees and seat selection charges.
• Carry-on luggage: Bags that passengers are allowed to bring into the cabin on an aircraft, typically subject to size and weight restrictions.
• Priority boarding: A service offered by airlines that allows passengers to board the plane before others, often for an additional fee.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, travellers should review their packing strategies and consider alternatives to avoid carry-on charges. This includes utilising hotels' amenities and sharing luggage costs with fellow travellers if possible.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As airlines respond to regulatory changes, passengers may notice shifts in pricing structures. It may be wise to keep an eye on promotional offers and changes in policies regarding luggage and additional fees.

Signals to watch

• Changes in airline pricing strategies, particularly regarding carry-on luggage fees.
• Updates from the ASA regarding further rulings on budget airline practices.
• Consumer feedback on travel experiences and additional fees incurred during flights.

Practical guidance

Do

• Pack efficiently and utilise available resources such as hotel amenities to minimise luggage.
• Book any necessary luggage in advance to secure lower rates.
• Familiarise yourself with each airline's specific baggage policies before travelling.

Don’t

• Don’t assume that a bag labelled 'cabin size' will meet all airlines' requirements.
• Don’t wait until the last minute to add luggage, as prices may spike closer to departure.
• Don’t overlook the potential for shared luggage costs when travelling with others.

Checklist

• Review the airline’s baggage policy before booking.
• Measure your bag to ensure it meets size restrictions.
• Pack light and consider using alternative clothing with pockets.
• Book luggage as early as possible to avoid higher fees.
• Keep an eye on promotional offers that can reduce overall travel costs.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the ASA's ruling provides some clarity, there are still uncertainties regarding how airlines will adapt their pricing structures in response to regulatory scrutiny. Additionally, passengers should remain vigilant about changes in individual airline policies, as these can vary widely and impact overall travel costs. Misunderstandings about baggage size and weight limits persist, leading to potential additional fees if not addressed beforehand.

Bottom line

The recent developments surrounding easyJet's misleading carry-on bag pricing serve as a reminder for UK travellers to critically assess the full cost of flying with budget airlines. By adapting packing strategies and understanding airline policies, passengers can significantly reduce or eliminate extra charges. Staying informed about industry changes will also help ensure a smoother travel experience.

FAQs

What should I do to avoid carry-on luggage fees?

To avoid carry-on luggage fees, pack efficiently, share luggage with travel companions, and consider using clothing with extra pockets for essential items.

How can I ensure my bag meets airline regulations?

Measure your bag and check the airline's website for specific size and weight restrictions to ensure compliance with their regulations.

Are there any tricks to reduce luggage costs when flying with budget airlines?

Yes, consider booking your luggage early, using hotel amenities, and sharing bags with fellow travellers to minimise costs.