Airport Ticket Buying: A Step-By-Step Guide

Buying tickets at the airport is a valid option, but it may not always be the most convenient or cheapest option. While it is possible to purchase tickets at the airport, it often involves long lines and frustrated employees who would prefer you to book online. In some cases, you may even be directed to a kiosk to book online. Buying tickets at the airport can be the only option for last-minute bookings, but it is not always the cheapest option.

Buying tickets at the airport vs online

There are several factors to consider when deciding whether to buy your airline tickets at the airport or online. While purchasing tickets at the airport offers certain advantages, such as personal assistance and cash payment options, it also comes with potential drawbacks, including limited flight options and higher costs. On the other hand, booking online provides benefits such as early access to a wider range of fares, various payment methods, and the convenience of avoiding queues.

Buying at the Airport

Purchasing tickets at the airport offers the benefit of personal assistance from airline staff, who can provide immediate answers to queries and help resolve travel issues. This option is especially appealing to travellers who prefer finalising their travel arrangements before leaving the airport. Additionally, for those who prefer cash transactions or do not use online payment systems, airport ticket counters offer this convenience.

However, buying tickets at the airport may result in higher costs due to convenience fees and the potential for fewer discounts and promotions compared to online bookings. The availability of airport ticket counters may also be limited, with specific operating hours and restricted flight options.

Buying Online

Booking flights online offers several advantages. Firstly, it provides early access to a broader range of fares, allowing travellers to compare prices across various websites and take advantage of online discounts. Online booking platforms also offer a variety of payment methods, including credit cards and digital wallets, catering to different preferences.

Additionally, online bookings save time by eliminating the need to queue at the airport kiosk. Travellers can conveniently book their flights from anywhere, at any time, and receive their e-tickets instantly or within 24 hours.

The decision between buying tickets at the airport or online ultimately depends on your unique travel needs and preferences. If you value personalised assistance and cash payment options, purchasing at the airport may be preferable. However, if you prioritise cost-effectiveness, convenience, and a wider range of flight options, booking online is the better choice. Remember to plan your trip in advance, stay informed about promotions, and utilise loyalty programs and travel rewards credit cards to maximise savings.

Advantages of buying tickets online

Buying tickets online is a convenient, efficient, and often cheaper alternative to purchasing them at the airport. Here are some advantages to consider:

• Convenience and Comfort: Buying tickets online allows you to purchase from the comfort of your home or anywhere with an internet connection. There is no need to commute to the airport, deal with traffic, or stand in long queues, saving you time and effort.
• Variety of Payment Options: Online platforms offer a wide range of payment methods, including credit cards, digital wallets, and buy-now-pay-later options. This flexibility is especially beneficial for those who prefer not to use cash or who want to take advantage of reward points offered by certain payment methods.
• Early Booking and Better Deals: Booking in advance is generally recommended to secure the best prices. Online platforms allow you to book early and take advantage of discounts, promotions, and loyalty programs. By signing up for fare alerts and newsletters, you can stay informed about special deals that may not be available at the airport.
• Flight and Route Comparison: Online booking provides the convenience of comparing multiple airlines, flight options, and prices all in one place. You can use search engines and price comparison tools to find the best deals and choose the most suitable option for your travel plans.
• Instant Ticket Receipt: In most cases, when you book online, you will receive your e-tickets instantly or within 24 hours. This eliminates the uncertainty of waiting for ticket confirmation and ensures you have the necessary documentation for your trip.
• Avoiding In-Person Pressures: Buying tickets online allows you to take your time and make informed decisions without feeling pressured by other customers or overwhelmed by the airport environment. You can also easily review the cancellation and change policies before purchasing, giving you more control over your travel plans.

While there may be instances where purchasing tickets at the airport is necessary or preferable, the advantages of buying tickets online are significant. The convenience, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility offered by online booking platforms make it a popular and efficient choice for travellers.

Budget airlines and their fees

Budget airlines are characterised by their low-cost, no-frills approach to air travel. While this can be appealing to the thrifty traveller, it's important to be aware of the various fees and charges that can be incurred when flying with a budget airline. These fees can quickly add up, and in some cases, may even exceed the cost of the flight itself.

Check-in Fees

Some budget airlines charge a fee for checking in at the airport. For example, Ryanair charges a fee of €55 per person for airport check-in. However, this fee can be avoided by checking in online within a specified time window. Other airlines, such as easyJet and Wizz Air, also offer free online check-in, but may charge a fee if passengers fail to check in within a certain timeframe before the flight.

Name Change and Spelling Mistake Fees

Budget airlines typically charge a fee for correcting spelling mistakes or changing the name on a booking. For instance, Ryanair charges a fee of €115 online and €160 at the airport for correcting a misspelt name. easyJet, on the other hand, allows passengers to correct spelling mistakes online for free, but charges a fee for transferring the booking to another passenger.

Flight Change and Cancellation Fees

Changing or cancelling a flight with a budget airline can incur significant fees. For example, Ryanair does not allow cancellations, but passengers can change their flight details for a fee. easyJet charges a fee of €35 online and €40 via the call centre for cancellations made within 24 hours of booking. Wizz Air allows passengers to cancel their flight and receive a refund in the form of credit in their Wizz Account up to 3 hours before the departure time of their outbound flight.

Baggage Fees

Budget airlines often charge extra for baggage, with fees varying depending on weight, size, and the time of payment. For instance, Ryanair charges a fee of €11 per kg for baggage that exceeds the permitted weight. easyJet offers different fees for baggage weighing up to 15 kg and baggage weighing up to 23 kg, with lower fees for baggage checked in online. Wizz Air has introduced a new type of checked bag with a weight allowance of 10 kg, in addition to the standard 20 kg and 32 kg options, with fees varying according to the season.

In-Flight Food and Drink Fees

The cost of food and drinks on board a budget airline can be significantly higher than what one might find at the airport or in a supermarket. For example, a bottle of water on Ryanair can cost €3, while a toasted baguette with ham and cheese costs €5. easyJet's prices are similar, with a bottle of water costing €2.50 and a chicken wrap costing €6.

Credit Card Fees

Some budget airlines charge a flat fee or a percentage of the ticket cost for using a credit card to make a booking. For instance, Ryanair may charge a payment fee of up to 1.2% of the total transaction value, depending on the form of payment and the location of the payment service provider. However, easyJet and Wizz Air do not charge any additional fees for using accepted credit or debit cards.

Avoiding Hidden Fees

To avoid unexpected fees when flying with a budget airline, it is important to read the fine print and be aware of the various charges that may apply. Setting reminders to check in online within the specified time frame can help avoid check-in fees. Passengers should also be cautious when entering their personal details to avoid costly corrections to spelling mistakes or name changes. Communicating any changes to flight details as soon as possible can also help minimise fees, as these tend to increase as the departure date approaches. When it comes to baggage, it is important to be aware of the weight and size restrictions to avoid excess baggage fees. Finally, passengers should be aware of the various payment options and any associated fees when booking their flight.

Buying tickets in-person: pros and cons

Purchasing tickets directly at the airport offers travelers a different experience compared to online bookings. This method has its own set of advantages and disadvantages that travelers should be aware of. Here is an overview of the pros and cons of buying tickets in-person at the airport:

Pros:

• Personalized Assistance: One of the primary benefits of buying tickets in-person is the availability of personalized assistance. Airport ticket counters are staffed with knowledgeable agents who can guide you through the ticketing process, answer any questions, and provide real-time updates on flight availability, schedules, and prices. This human interaction can be especially beneficial for travelers who are unfamiliar with online booking processes or those who have complex itineraries.
• Instant Ticketing: When you purchase a ticket in-person, you receive the physical ticket immediately. This can be advantageous if you need a last-minute ticket and are unsure about printing or mobile boarding pass procedures. Having the ticket in hand can provide peace of mind, especially for travelers who prefer a tangible confirmation of their booking.
• Same-Day Travel Options: Buying tickets in-person may open up additional travel options for spontaneous trips or last-minute changes. Some airlines offer exclusive deals or discounted rates for same-day purchases at the airport, providing flexibility for travelers who need to book a flight immediately.

Cons:

• Limited Availability: One of the significant drawbacks of buying tickets in-person is the limited availability of seats. Popular flights, especially during peak travel seasons, may be fully booked, leaving you with fewer options or less desirable flight times. In contrast, online bookings often provide a broader range of flight choices and allow you to compare prices and schedules more easily.
• Queueing and Convenience: Purchasing tickets in-person often requires waiting in line at the airport ticket counter. This can be time-consuming, especially during busy travel periods. The convenience of buying tickets from the comfort of your home or office through online platforms is a significant advantage that modern travelers appreciate.
• Price Disparity: In some cases, tickets purchased in-person may be more expensive than those booked online. Airlines sometimes offer exclusive online deals or provide incentives for travelers to book through their websites or mobile apps. Additionally, the availability of price comparison tools and the ability to use promotional codes or discounts online can result in more affordable options than buying tickets in-person.

In conclusion, buying tickets in-person at the airport has its advantages, including personalized assistance, instant ticketing, and potential same-day travel options. However, it also comes with limitations, such as limited seat availability, the inconvenience of queueing, and potential price disparities. Weighing these pros and cons can help travelers make informed decisions about their booking methods, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience.

How to book a flight: a step-by-step guide

Booking a flight can be a confusing process, but it doesn't have to be. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you book your next flight with ease:

Step 1: Outline your travel plans

Think about your destination, dates, and whether you want to book a package deal or just the flight. Make a list of your plans and keep it handy and easily accessible while you book. Being flexible with your plans can help you get a great deal on your flight. For example, flying from alternative airports can often be cheaper and offer better connection times than large airport hubs.

Step 2: Compare flight prices

Flight prices can vary greatly depending on several variables, including the day you book, how far in advance you book, and the website you use. By comparing prices across different sites and travel agents, you are likely to get the best deal. Tuesdays around 3 pm Eastern Time are the cheapest time to book your flight, and booking approximately six weeks in advance will give you the best flight options and prices.

Step 3: Keep a list of flight offers

As you compare flight offers, keep a list of all the relevant details, including departure and arrival airports and times, fees, cancellation policies, baggage fees, taxes, and seat preferences. This will help you make an informed decision when choosing the right flight for your trip.

Step 4: Purchase your ticket

Once you've decided on the right flight, it's time to buy your ticket. Follow the website prompts and fill in the necessary information, such as your name, travel details, seat and meal preferences, and payment information. If you're travelling internationally, you will need a passport to confirm the reservation.

Step 5: Decide on any add-ons

Consider whether you want to pay for any add-ons or upgrades, such as travel insurance, seat upgrades, or rental cars. Many travel and airline sites will offer special deals for these add-ons.

Step 6: Print your booking confirmation

Make sure to print out your booking confirmation and other relevant documents and take them with you to the airport on the day of your flight to avoid any issues with your booking.

Bonus tip: Follow the "24-hour rule"

Within 24 hours of booking your flight, check the prices one last time. If the fare has decreased, call the airline and rebook your flight at the lower price without penalty.

Frequently asked questions