Value of Cheap Easyjet Fares

As a low cost carrier, EasyJet generally offers lower fares than those of the regular airlines. However, because of the regular specials and different fare classes, and the difference in the prices of fares through the call centre, it is often difficult to tell how much of a saving there is from other established non budget airlines.

Once you get past the advertised prices, and consider all the extras like baggage charges, seat allocation, priority boarding and meal costs, the price of the fare is usually not quite what you originally thought.

Then add in the airport taxes and charges and your very cheap ticket has somehow become much more expensive.

There are other issues to take into account as well. You must be at the airport earlier that other airlines and if you miss the check in deadline, you lose your flight. The airport may be harder to get to than the normal airport and may require longer and costlier travel. There is no frequent flier program. And if you are delayed or your flight is cancelled, you may not be compensated.

These are issues that you usually don't have to worry about with other airlines. Therefore there is a question as to the real value of flying low cost carriers like Easyjet. In the current economic environment, more established airlines are discounting their fares, creating less of a price difference with the budget carriers, while still maintaining full service.

What are your thoughts on the discounts provided by EasyJet?

Do you prefer to use the non budget carriers because of the full service?

Or is the price saving from EasyJet worth the sacrifice of service?

Any other comments about EasyJet cheap fares compared with other airlines?