Complete Guide to Booking Budget Airlines With Points and Miles

Core Insights - The article discusses the business model of low-cost airlines, highlighting their focus on providing cheap fares while charging extra for additional services [1][4][10] - It emphasizes the importance of comparing total costs when booking flights with budget airlines versus full-service carriers [6][8][36] Group 1: Low-Cost Airline Characteristics - Low-cost airlines, often referred to as budget airlines, typically operate routes that are underserved by major airlines [2] - These airlines often have unbundled pricing, meaning that the base fare does not include extras like seat selection or baggage [5][10] - Some budget airlines have loyalty programs, but they are not generally part of major transferable points programs [3][12][15] Group 2: Booking Considerations - When booking with budget airlines, it is crucial to consider the total ticket price, including any additional fees for services [4][6] - For example, a Ryanair flight from Copenhagen to London initially priced at $26.45 can rise to $64.74 when adding a carry-on bag and seat selection [6][8] - Budget airlines may use smaller airports to save on costs, which can lead to additional transit expenses and time [9][10] Group 3: Using Points and Miles - Budget airlines may not be bookable through major credit card travel portals, making it necessary to explore alternative methods for redeeming points [21][25] - Some budget airlines have partnerships with major airlines, allowing points from those airlines to be used for booking [16][17] - Cashing out transferable points for travel expenses is an option, but the redemption rates may vary [30][32] Group 4: Cost Comparison - Budget airlines often offer significantly lower fares, but it may be more economical to book with full-service carriers when considering the total cost of travel [34][36] - For instance, flights from Las Vegas to Los Angeles can be found for as low as $21 on Spirit, while full-service options may be available for $39 [34][36] - The article suggests that in some cases, purchasing a ticket outright may provide better value than redeeming points [39]