Very Very Cheap Flights

Don't pay check in fees

The latest additional charge from some airlines is a booking in fee for each item of hold luggage. However there are two obvious ways to avoid this.

Avoid Baggage Fees

The first way to avoid a huge additional baggage fee is to fly with carriers who don't add them. The charge is usually levied by small 'no frills' airlines. If they add the charge, you may find that their cheap ticket plus baggage handling fee is actually higher than their rival who doesn't seperately charge for sticking your suitcase in the hold.

The second option, and one you should not dismiss is... Don't take a suitcase.

Flying without luggage

It is amazing how little luggage you actually need when going on holiday. Especially if you are visiting a hot country, it can be cheaper to chuck a pair of shorts, sandals and a t-shirt in your hand luggage and then buy whatever else you need for your vacation at your destination. Clothing in many destinations is much cheaper than at home, so if you are going to the southern Med, Africa, South East Asia or any less developed nations, this option may actually be perfect.

When we flew to the Maldives, we couldn't get extra clothes except a sarong, but when you are on a tiny island, it is amazing how far a sarong will get you. Be guided by the local population. If they wear very little, you can wear very little too. Additions such as a toothbrush are best bought at home, although large 4 and 5 star hotels anywhere in the world will obtain these for you without a moment's hesitation.

Know the Cabin Baggage Rules

However, do remember to check the airline restrictions on cabin baggage. These are strictly adhered to by staff so make sure your hand luggage is no larger than the airline's maximum, not even by 1 cm. If you do all this you can fly to most destinations with hand luggage only which means a cheaper, less stressful flight.