Watch out for increased charges if flying with a budget airline this summer...

Enable Independent, IFA’s in Bishop’s Stortford know that it’s at this time of year when many of us will be flying abroad to get some sun, especially after the long wet spring we have had. However people trying to save money by traveling on budget airlines might have to pay more than they anticipated this year.

International airlines made £17.3 billion just in extra charges and fees last year according to new research. Nearly 20% higher than in 2011, and more than double airlines earned from charges in 2009.

Following the recent clamp down on credit-card charges these canny airlines have managed to make up the money else where, charging even more for services such as hold baggage and people who are traveling with babies.

For most of us if we are flying away for a weeks holiday we will want to take more than a plastic sandwich bag worth of cosmetics and toiletries, plus clothes for a week and electronic goods, and at the moment the only weight allowed free is 10kg.

If a family of four each want to take a 20kg bag to France this year this will cost an extra £360, if you want to take a 15kg bag the cost will be £280 flying with Ryanair. If you fail to book your bag on-line before your fly – and make sure you do get the confirmation email, as otherwise you might find you have to pay up to £140 for 20kg bag per flight – almost as much as the contents are probably worth. For a family of four this would cost an extra £1,120 just in extra luggage.

Easy jet has also increased their baggage prices this year, from £18 to £19 for a 20kg suitcase, still less than Ryanair.

If you are traveling with children, it will now cost you an additional £60 for a flight for a child under two traveling on your lap, which is sometimes more than the cost of a flight.

The best advice we would give if you’re considering using a budget airline is to take time to research all of the additional costs before booking.


Issued by: Enable Independent Financial Life Planners
 25c North Street, Bishops Stortford, Herts CM23 2LD
Telephone: 01279 755950 - Fax: 01279 657339
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