Why I Don’t Book the Cheapest Airfare (And You Probably Shouldn’t Either)
There was a time when I thought I was a genius for snagging a flight that cost less than a tank of gas. I’d proudly tell friends, “Yeah, I’m flying across the country for $59!” They’d cheer. I’d feel smug.
Fast-forward to the day of the flight: I’m sweating in a crowded boarding gate, wearing all my clothes (because carry-on wasn’t included), and about to spend five hours in a middle seat between two people who brought tuna sandwiches. That’s when I realized, cheap doesn’t always mean good.
These days, I still look for deals, but I almost never book the absolute rock-bottom fare. Here’s why.
1. No Changes. Ever.
Basic economy and the cheapest tiers increasingly have zero flexibility. Get sick? Plans changed? You’re out of luck, and your money.
Some fares don’t even offer the option to pay a change fee. They’re basically saying, “We’d rather keep your cash than see your face again.”
2. Carry-On? What Carry-On?
A disturbing new trend: some airlines are selling fares without a carry-on bag. Yep, you get one “personal item” (read: purse, laptop bag, or a backpack smaller than a lunchbox).
So unless you plan to wear all your outfits like Joey from Friends, you’ll be paying extra.
3. Seat Roulette
Cheapest fares often don’t let you choose your seat in advance. Which means you’ll likely end up:
In a middle seat
In the last row by the bathrooms
Or both (lucky you!)
And if you’re traveling with someone? Forget sitting together unless you want to pay.
4. The Hidden Fee Stack
Sure, that $59 flight looks great… until you:
Add a carry-on fee
Add a seat selection fee
Add priority boarding (because now you’re scared all the overhead space will be gone)
Suddenly, your “cheap” ticket costs more than the standard fare you skipped.
5. The Peace of Mind Upgrade
For just $30–$50 more, you can usually get:
A carry-on included
The ability to make changes for a small or no fee
A seat you actually want
Less stress
When you’re traveling, peace of mind is worth every penny.
Bottom line?
I still hunt for good deals, I’m not made of money, but now I factor in the total cost of flying, not just the ticket price. Sometimes the cheapest fare is like that “too good to be true” sushi special. Tempting, but you might regret it halfway through.
Pro Tip: If you do book the cheapest fare, read the fine print like your sanity depends on it. Because it just might.