British travelers can save money flying budget airlines

As summer approaches, many travelers in the UK are preparing for flights to Europe with budget airlines. The Sun’s travel team has shared helpful tips for making the most of these cost-effective trips. Sophie Swietochowski, the Assistant Travel Editor, advises against being loyal to any budget airline loyalty programs. Instead, travelers should focus on finding the best deals through comparison sites like Skyscanner. These tools can help identify the cheapest travel dates and even suggest affordable destinations. For those looking to maximize their flying experience, some travelers play "check-in chicken" with airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air. This involves waiting until the last moment to check in, in hopes of snagging a better seat, such as extra legroom. While this trick sometimes leads to success, it can also result in getting stuck in a middle seat. Another tip for a more comfortable flight is to ask flight attendants if there are any available seats for upgrading. This can be done when boarding or after takeoff, offering a chance to move to a window or extra legroom seat. To save on fees, travelers can opt for an underseat bag instead of a larger carry-on. Packing light and choosing a capsule wardrobe can help keep luggage manageable without extra costs. Food is another area where travelers can save. Instead of purchasing expensive snacks on the plane, it’s wise to bring your own. Simple items like cereal bars, nuts, or homemade sandwiches can keep costs down. Also, filling up a water bottle at airport fountains adds to the savings. Finally, to make budget flights feel more luxurious, some travelers pack cozy clothes and small hotel toiletries to enhance their comfort. They might even bring their own herbal tea bags to enjoy during the flight, making the experience feel a bit fancier.