Whether you're backpacking through Southeast Asia or hopping between European cities, low-cost options are increasingly available, if you know where to look and how to book smart. 

In this post, we’ll break down how to find the cheapest airlines, what to expect from low-cost airlines, and key differences between budget carriers in different regions like the U.S. and Europe. Let’s get started. 

What are the cheapest airlines in the world right now? 

If your priority is stretching your dollar (or euro, pound, or peso), knowing which carriers consistently offer the lowest fares is essential. Here's a snapshot of some of the cheapest airlines by region: 

North America: 

• Spirit Airlines (USA): One of the most well-known budget airlines, Spirit offers ultra-low base fares with a strict à la carte pricing model. 

• Frontier Airlines (USA): Known for rock-bottom ticket prices, especially if you're flexible with your travel dates and routes. 

• Allegiant Air (USA): Specializes in smaller regional airports and great deals for domestic travel. 

Europe: 

• Ryanair (Ireland): Probably Europe’s most famous low-cost airline, Ryanair is renowned for its incredibly cheap flights and wide European coverage. 

• EasyJet (UK): Offers competitive prices with a polished customer experience. 

• Wizz Air (Hungary): Strong in Eastern Europe and increasingly expanding into Western European markets. 

Asia: 

• AirAsia (Malaysia): Consistently rated as one of the world’s top low-cost airlines, especially for Southeast Asian routes. 

• Scoot (Singapore): A subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, Scoot combines affordability with decent in-flight comfort. 

• IndiGo (India): Dominates India’s domestic air market with a reliable, budget-focused service. 

Latin America: 

• Viva Air (Colombia): Offers some of the cheapest tickets within Colombia and neighboring countries. 

• JetSMART (Chile): Expanding rapidly across South America, JetSMART is known for its low fares and modern fleet. 

• Azul (Brazil): A bit of a hybrid, Azul combines affordability with service, especially for Brazil’s underserved routes. 

How to find the cheapest flights

 Knowing the cheapest airlines is just the first step. Here are some insider tips to consistently land low fares: 

1. Use flight comparison tools. Always start with a comparison tool like Skyscanner to see a wide range of airlines and prices in one place. 

2. Be flexible with your dates and destinations. Flying on weekdays or during shoulder seasons can lead to major savings. 

3. Book early, but not too early. Booking early can sometimes save money, but many budget airlines do not provide an early booking date. 

4. Set fare alerts. These can notify you when prices drop on specific routes. 

5. Consider nearby airports. Flying into or out of a smaller or secondary airport can reduce your fare significantly. 

6. Understand the fine print. Budget and low-cost airlines often charge for extras like seat selection, baggage, and even printing your boarding pass. 

What to expect when flying budget or low cost 

Flying with the cheapest airlines is very different from flying full-service. Here’s what to expect and how to prepare: 

• Bare-bones pricing: Your ticket might only include the seat. Everything else—checked baggage, carry-ons, snacks, and seat selection—can cost extra. 

• No frills: Don’t expect in-flight entertainment, complimentary meals, or free drinks on most budget airlines. 

• Tighter legroom and smaller seats: Comfort is not a top priority for many low-cost carriers. 

• Strict policies: Budget airlines are notorious for being strict with baggage limits and boarding times. Always read the terms and conditions carefully. 

Despite these trade-offs, many travelers find that the savings are well worth the reduced perks, especially on short-haul flights. 

The key differences between low-cost airlines in America and Europe 

If you're used to flying with low-cost airlines in one part of the world, it might surprise you how different the experience can be elsewhere. Let's break it down: 

Route networks 

• Europe: Budget carriers like Ryanair and Wizz Air cover dozens of countries and offer frequent flights to both major cities and smaller, lesser-known destinations. 

• America: Low-cost options are mostly focused on domestic travel, with a few extending into Latin America or the Caribbean. International options are more limited, though expanding. 

Airport access 

• Europe: Many budget airlines fly into secondary airports that may be 30–90 minutes from the city center. This keeps costs low but may add time and transportation expenses. 

• America: U.S. low-cost carriers often use major airports but offer fewer route options per destination. 

Pricing models 

• Europe: Rock-bottom fares are common, but everything else costs extra. Ryanair has famously offered tickets for less than €10. 

• America: Prices are generally higher, but some inclusions (like a personal item or basic carry-on) are more standard depending on the airline. 

Customer experience 

• Europe: The experience is efficient but barebones. Quick turnaround times and minimal interaction. 

• America: U.S. low-cost airlines are often criticized for poor customer service, but some offer loyalty programs or upgrade options for frequent flyers. 

In short, flying budget airlines in Europe can feel more accessible and widespread, while in the U.S., options are growing but more limited and generally pricier. 

Are budget airlines safe? 

This is one of the most common concerns among first-time budget airline travelers. The good news? Yes, they are safe. 

All airlines, whether full-service or low-cost, are subject to strict safety regulations enforced by regional and international aviation authorities. In many cases, low-cost airlines operate newer fleets and have excellent safety records. The trade-offs you’re making are usually about comfort and convenience, not safety. 

Are the cheapest airlines worth it? 

If you’re looking to save money and don’t mind sacrificing a few comforts, flying with the cheapest airlines can be a game-changer for your travel budget. Whether you’re hopping across Europe, navigating the U.S., or exploring Asia, budget airlines offer more affordable access to the world than ever before. 

Just remember to: 

• Research thoroughly 

• Pack light 

• Understand what your ticket includes 

• Factor in all potential fees when comparing prices 

At the end of the day, low-cost airlines are about options, and for travelers willing to plan ahead and adapt, they offer unbeatable value.