💸 Best Budget Airlines in Europe (and Hidden Tricks to Save Even More)

Find affordable suitcases on Amazon!

Flying across Europe doesn’t have to break the bank. Budget airlines make it possible to explore new cities, visit friends, or take weekend getaways — often for less than the cost of a night out.

Here’s a breakdown of the most popular budget airlines and how to get the best deals.

✈️ 1. Ryanair

Why it’s popular:

Ryanair offers some of the lowest fares in Europe, with hundreds of routes from the UK.

Top tips:

Book at least 6–8 weeks in advance for the cheapest fares. Avoid airport extras — print your boarding pass at home, skip priority boarding unless you really need it. Keep an eye out for flash sales, usually on Tuesdays or Wednesdays.

✈️ 2. EasyJet

Why it’s popular:

Slightly more comfortable than Ryanair with a bigger focus on business-friendly routes.

Top tips:

Check “flexi fares” only if you might need to change dates — otherwise stick to standard tickets. Download the EasyJet app for mobile-exclusive deals. If flying with hand luggage only, measure and weigh it carefully — they enforce limits strictly.

✈️ 3. Wizz Air

Why it’s popular:

Great for flights to Eastern Europe and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Top tips:

Wizz Air offers a “Wizz Discount Club” — if you fly regularly, it can save money quickly. Avoid airport check-in fees by checking in online. Watch for seasonal promotions; prices can be extremely low during off-peak months.

✈️ 4. Vueling

Why it’s popular:

Focused on Spain and Mediterranean destinations.

Top tips:

Booking directly through the Vueling website often saves on hidden booking fees. Combine flights with low-cost accommodation bundles to save more.

🧳 General Hidden Tricks for Budget Airlines

Pack smart: Only take what fits in your cabin bag to avoid heavy luggage fees.

Book early (or last minute): Some routes are cheapest far in advance; others drop prices in the last 2–3 weeks.

Flexible dates: Shifting your flight by a day or two can cut costs dramatically.

Follow airlines on social media: Many announce flash sales and promo codes there first.

Set alerts: Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Hopper can notify you when fares drop.

Flying cheap doesn’t mean flying uncomfortable — with a little planning, you can enjoy Europe without overspending. Treat yourself to new experiences, not debt.

Click here to find out the cheapest times to book flights!

We may earn a small commission if you book through our links. It helps us keep sharing budget-friendly travel ideas at no extra cost to you.


Comments

Leave a comment