Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the cheapest deal possible.
However, as you have probably experienced before, it is not always easy.
Hidden charges or mistakes you made yourself can almost ruin your vacation when you arrive at the airport all excited.
Random seat assignment? https://t.co/azziLEVGdO
— Ryanair (@Ryanair) July 25, 2024
With that in mind, we’ve broken down some of the most common mistakes to make sure that doesn’t happen to you.
Middle names on passports:
It depends on the airline whether you will be allowed to board a flight without your middle name on your ticket:
Second name on the ID document
If your middle name is on your ID, it should be listed on your booking. You will usually be able to board without any problems, but the decision will be made by the airline.
No middle name on ID
If you do not have a middle name on your ID, you may board with just your first and last name.
Middle name required
Some airlines require a middle name, while others only require the middle initial or don’t require it at all (Ryanair doesn’t require a middle name, according to their FAQ). If your airline does require a middle name and you don’t provide it, you may be able to board, but it’s best to check with the airline first.
Charges
For some airlines, the fee for changing a name can be £115.
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Don’t go incognito:
Don’t be surprised if fares start to increase as you repeatedly search for similar flights, which happens when airlines (or at least their technology) realize you’re interested in a particular flight.
“By turning on incognito mode on your browser, you avoid cookies, which increase the rates you see,” says frequent traveler Jeremy Clubb, founder of Rainforest Cruises.
“Similarly, a VPN (virtual private network) can be useful when booking a flight. You can take advantage of the inconsistencies that airlines have when pricing their flights in different currencies.
“If you use your VPN and search as if you were in another country with a lower cost of living than yours, it is very possible that the prices for your ideal flight will be lower.”
Underestimating the cost of added extras:
According to Travel Supermarket: “You might think you can fit everything you need for a cheap weekend in Rome into one Ryanair-friendly suitcase, but if it all goes wrong and you’re forced to pay for checked luggage at the airport, it’s a false saving.
“Take the time to think about exactly what you’ll be bringing (and what extras, like groceries, you’ll be bringing back) and err on the side of caution.
“However, this does not mean being carried away by a ‘package’ of airlines.
“For example, when booking an Economy Light ticket with Virgin Atlantic, you’ll be bombarded with ads highlighting the benefits of upgrading to Economy Delight – although, as with most airlines, if your only goal is to add a checked bag, you’re better off sticking with the basic fare and adding your checked bag separately.”
