Trying to decide between a budget airline and a legacy carrier? As travel rebounds and deals flood your inbox, it’s tempting to book the cheapest flight available.
But the real question is: Are budget airlines worth it once you factor in all the extras? This guide compares budget airlines with legacy carriers, examining actual costs, comfort, and when to spend or save.
Total Cost Breakdown: Budget Airlines vs Full-Service Airlines
At first glance, budget airlines like Frontier, Ryanair, and AirAsia advertise shockingly low fares. But what you save on the ticket, you might pay back in fees. Checked bags, carry-ons, seat selection, snacks, and even printing your boarding pass can all incur additional costs. According to NerdWallet, these extras can add $35 to $45 per flight.
Legacy carriers, such as Delta, United, or Lufthansa, often include these perks, especially on international routes. They also offer loyalty points, better change policies, and more reliable customer service. These are things worth paying for on longer trips or complex itineraries.
Pros and Cons of Budget Airlines
Budget carriers are built around one promise: low base fares. If you pack light and don’t mind skipping inflight extras, they can deliver unbeatable savings. But be ready to pay for anything beyond the seat itself.
Pros of Budget Airlines
- Extremely low fares, especially on short-haul routes
- Ideal for backpackers, solo travelers, and quick trips
- Fast boarding and shorter ground times
- Often cheaper for one-way flights or for minimalist travelers
Cons of Budget Airlines
- Baggage, seats, and snacks come with added fees
- Limited legroom and no entertainment
- Strict cancellation/change policies
- Use of smaller, farther airports = longer transfers
Pro Tip: Always calculate the total cost before booking, including baggage fees, transportation to the airport, and any additional fees or charges.
Pros and Cons of Legacy Carriers
Full-service airlines excel when comfort, flexibility, and reliability are paramount. Whether you’re flying long-haul, traveling with kids, or value loyalty perks, the extras bundled into the fare can more than justify the price.
Pros of Legacy Carriers
- Meals, entertainment, and baggage are often included
- Better legroom, service, and seat selection
- Loyalty programs and upgrade potential
- Rebooking options, refunds, and 24/7 support
Cons of Legacy Carriers
- Higher upfront fares
- Fewer discounts on short flights
- May charge more for route changes or multiple stops
Pro Tip: Utilize your miles, status, or credit card benefits to secure upgrades or complimentary bags when booking a full-service flight.
A Quick Comparison
This quick comparison highlights the major differences between budget airlines and legacy carriers.
| Feature | Budget Airlines | Legacy Carriers |
|---|---|---|
| Base Fare | Lowest, often under $100 | Higher, especially on long-haul routes |
| Baggage Fees | Charged for both carry-on and checked bags | Often includes one carry-on and one checked bag |
| Seat Selection | Extra fee for seat choice | Usually included, especially for economy class |
| In-Flight Amenities | Minimal or pay-per-use | Long-haul travel, families, and business travelers |
| Customer Service | Limited, often online-only | 24/7 support and airport staff available |
| Airports Used | Secondary or regional airports | Major airports with better connections |
| Flight Flexibility | Low: change fees or no refunds | High: flexible ticket options and rebooking |
| Best For | Short trips, light packers, budget travelers | Long-haul travel, families, business travelers |
When Budget Airlines Are Worth It
If you’re flying a short route, don’t need a checked bag, and are flexible with time and budget, airlines can offer unbeatable value. Just beware of the nickel-and-dime model and double-check those airport codes.
For longer trips, multi-leg journeys, or any trip involving kids or gear, a full-service airline may offer a better overall value (and far less stress).
Smart Booking Tips to Compare Airline Value
Use tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner that estimate baggage and seat fees. Be sure to:
- Check total price, not just base fare
- Consider the airport location and transit time
- Review rebooking policies and cancellation flexibility
Need help planning smarter? Explore our roundup of Trip Planning Tools to make your life easier.
Final Verdict: Budget or Legacy?
There’s no universal winner in the debate between budget airlines and full-service airlines. It depends on your travel style, priorities, and destination.
If price is king and comfort is secondary, budget airlines shine. But if you value perks, protection, and peace of mind, legacy carriers may be worth the splurge.
