Budget Airline Fees Explained: What You’re Really Paying For (and How to Avoid Them)

What Are the Most Common Budget Airline Fees to Look Out For

Online Check-In Fees

Many budget airlines require passengers to check in online before arriving at the airport. If you do not, you may be charged.

According to Skyscanner, Ryanair charges £55 for airport check-in if you fail to check in online.

Boarding Pass Fees

Airlines increasingly expect passengers to use digital boarding passes. If your phone battery dies or you cannot access your pass, you may be charged to have it reissued.

U.K. airline guidance confirms that passengers should download or print boarding passes in advance to avoid issues at the airport.

Luggage Fees and Penalties

Luggage is one of the biggest sources of extra charges. easyJet, for example, includes only a small cabin bag free, with additional bags charged separately and higher fees if purchased at the airport.

Hayley Sparkes highlights the risks: "There are some 'hacks' that can trigger fees or delays, including:

• Hiding items in duty-free bags: Airlines now check duty-free receipts. These bags are only for purchases made at the airport, not for sneaking extra items to avoid cabin bag fees.
• Overloading coat pockets: Stuffing chargers, toiletries, or shoes can trigger secondary security screening, which can delay or even cause you to miss your flight. It could also result in a gate bag fee. To avoid this, keep pockets to a minimum and consolidate items before entering security.
• Soft fabric travel bags marketed as 'hack bags': These often expand when full. Airlines require bags to fit the sizing frame naturally - you cannot force them to fit. Overpacking these bags can result in extra fees."

Name Change Fees

Airlines require the name on your ticket to match your passport exactly.

Hayley Sparkes explains:

"Another common mistake is a name mismatch between your passport and ticket. Avoid mixing maiden and married names or using shortened versions of your full name. Correcting these errors can cost between £50-£200, and in the worst-case scenario, you could be refused boarding."

Airport Rule Penalties

Even small mistakes can result in fines.

"Many passengers still get caught out by carrying liquids over 100ml in hand luggage. Even though some airports no longer require a clear bag, any item over 100ml is still prohibited and will be confiscated."

While some U.K. airports have introduced new scanners, rules remain inconsistent, and many still enforce the 100ml limit.

Remember to also check the rules for the airport of your destination. Maybe you can travel with liquids over 100ml one-way, but not the other.

Another one of the most common and surprising triggers is vaping or smoking outside designated areas. Even brief or discreet use can result in fines.

Hayley Sparkes highlights:

"The implications can vary depending on the airport and local regulations, but passengers caught vaping in non-designated areas can typically face on-the-spot fines ranging from around £50 to £200. In some airports, security may also escort passengers away from the area or issue a formal warning that could delay boarding."

Can You Challenge Airline Fees?

In some cases, yes. "Passengers can claim refunds if a fee was applied incorrectly, unclearly disclosed, or inconsistently enforced", explains Hayley Sparkes. "U.K. consumer law protects travellers more than many realise."

To improve your chances:

• Take a photo of your bag in the sizer
• Photograph luggage scales
• Keep receipts
• Note staff details

Hidden Travel Costs Beyond the Airline

Airline fees are only part of the picture. The U.K. Civil Aviation Authority notes that travellers may also face additional airport charges, including drop-off fees and optional services like fast-track security.

Parking is another major expense.

Hayley Sparkes advises: "Parking is a hidden cost, especially at major U.K. and EU airports. But there are some ways to save:

• Book online in advance. On-the-day rates are higher. Booking a week ahead can save 30-60%.
• Consider off-airport lots. Private operators run shuttles (5-15 minute transfer). Cost is around £6-£15 per day.
• Alternatives include coach transfers, Uber, or drop-offs to avoid parking entirely."

If you need to book a parking space, check out Savoo's vouchers for airport parkings like Gatwick, Heathrow, Manchester, or Dublin.