How to Stay Comfortable When Flying on a Budget

Jun 14, 2012 by SAExplorer    No Comments    Posted under: Archive, Travel tips

If you’re interested in traveling long distances on a budget (for example, heading south for a tour of South America), chances are you’ve booked the cheapest flight tickets possible. This might mean long layovers, coach seats, and perhaps flying on airlines that provides only the bare minimum services. However, even booking bottom rate tickets for basic service doesn’t mean you have to spend your entire travel time upset and uncomfortable. Here are several tips on how to stay content and comfortable while traveling by air on a budget.

Plan ahead. If you are a budget traveler, chances are you already know the virtues of booking your tickets in advance and having a flexible schedule. Although it is possible to get last minute deals, you shouldn’t count on it. But planning ahead doesn’t only mean you should start looking for low ticket prices. You should also read all the rules and regulations of the airlines you’re interested in and know what fees might be added on to your purchase. A ticket that looks like a deal at first might not be such a steal when you add on baggage or check-in fees. If you plan to take a trip to multiple destinations, such as Galapagos and Machu Picchu tours, which require domestic and international flights, planning ahead becomes especially important.

Go long. Because direct flights are more expensive, you will probably have a layover or two. Make the most of it by booking a ticket with an extra-long layover. A 20 hour layover sounds horrible, but if it happens in New York City and you’ve never been to NYC, you’ve just gotten yourself a free one-day vacation! Of course, you may have to pay to store your luggage, and you’ll have to pay for transportation from the airport to whichever sights you want to see, but if the layover is in a city you’re interested in visiting, the slight hassle is definitely worth it.

Pack for a picnic. Food and drink at airports and on the plane are notoriously expensive. Avoid the supersized prices by packing a snack and an empty water bottle. Although you probably won’t be allowed to bring liquids through customs, many airports have water fountains where you can fill up your bottle. Also, be creative with your snacks. If you have a long flight, don’t settle for chips and cookies. Buy a sub sandwich at your local store where it is reasonably priced (and probably better quality anyway) and bring it along with you.

Wear layers. If you’re worried about topping the weight limit in your checked or carry-on luggage, don’t fret, just start bundling! The trick to getting heavy winter coats and boots on-board without having to pay for them is simple: Wear them. The coat can double as a blanket or pillow, and you can always toss a pair of flip flops in your hand luggage if you want to change out of your boots. And if you’re heading to a destination where the weather varies drastically, such as a trip that includes a Machu Picchu package, packing layers is a good practice anyways.

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