I had the opportunity to travel to Dublin with my partner while he was on a work assignment. I decided to book a 2 day excursion to Rome, Italy while I was in Europe. I booked my round trip tickets via RyanAir for only $78 USD. Both the price and experience were AMAZING!!! There were other price options too, but I did not need the extras.
RyanAir is a UK based economy airline. They offer steep deals, however there are some caveats to traveling with a budget airline. I have heard of people booking a $50 flight only to end up paying $150 for their flight due to unexpected incurred fees! I’m sharing some tips I’ve discovered to prevent these outrageous fees.
Tips for Avoiding Fees on RyanAir
#1 CHECK IN ONLINE + PRINT OUT YOUR BOARDING PASS
RyanAir allows passengers to check in ONLINE 7 days prior to the flight departure. You will have the option to check in online and purchase a seat (around $8.50-$21 USD) at least 30 days in advance, but that is not necessary. You’ll need your passport and possibly a credit card handy during the online check in process. If you’re traveling alone, I do not suggest buying seats. If you’re traveling with a partner and want to sit together, you may need to cough up the payment. If you don’t get seated together, at least there’s a chance to make new friends on board!
If you forget to check in online and print out your boarding pass, you will have to purchase a ticket printout at the check-in desk for $20 USD. Do not FORGET to PRINT OUT your boarding pass. You will not be able to use an image from your phone. I know, it’s annoying. But that’s how they operate.
Try to avoid paying boarding pass fees if possible. 20 USD can buy a yummy lunch and beer in Ireland!
#2 DOWNLOAD THE MOBILE APP
Download the mobile app to keep track of your flight. I really did not end up using the app but it would have been helpful if I needed to book and track multiple RyanAir flights while in Europe.
#3 BRING EARPHONES OR EARPLUGS
In order to offer great flight costs, RyanAir blares advertisements throughout the flight on their intercom. I did not experience this on my flight to Italy but I believe it is dependent on which planes you board.
#4 BUY SNACKS AND DRINKS BEFORE BOARDING
You have to pay for all refreshments on RyanAir. I ended up buying drinks and snacks at a kiosk across from my departure gate. I took advantage of a BOGO deal so I bought two bottles of beverages and gave one to a fellow passenger.
#5 BOOK AIRPORT SHUTTLE SERVICE SEPARATELY
RyanAir offers additional shuttle from airport to major city centers but you can book the service separately through the different transportation companies. I used Looking 4 Transfers . The rates on RyanAir are more expensive. For example, I would have paid $14 euro to get from the Dublin Airport to Dublin City Center. By booking directly through the shuttle service company and paid only $12 euro. I know it’s not a huge difference, but every bit counts, especially if you’re traveling no a budget.
#6 USE THE RESTROOM BEFOREHAND
It costs 3 euros to use the restroom aboard the plane. I used the restroom in my terminal and made sure not to drink superfluous amounts of liquids on the plane. My flight was 3.5 hours long and I made it without having to relieve myself onboard.
#7 PACK LIGHT
Considering bringing backpack instead of suitcase while traveling Ryan Air. Being a budget airline, they will charge you for baggage check. They allow a max of TWO items: one carry-on weighing 10k or less and one smaller item. They will NOT weigh your bags, so if you bring a backpack weighing over 10k it should be OK as long as you can stow it away in the overhead cabin or at your feet.
If you do need to check in a bag, do so online. It’s cheaper (25 versus 40 euro for checked in luggage) to do everything online. Follow this link to see the entire list of RyanAir fees.
Should I Fly Ryan Air?
Most definitely! Flying RyanAir was convenient, however definitely not luxurious. I did not expect it to be. I was content with what I paid and received. The flight departed and arrived on-time on both legs. I would definitely recommend it for the budget traveler wanting to explore Europe. Europe is not cheap. The less you spend on travel and lodging, the more you have to spend on entertainment and food!
Disclaimer: If you’re looking for relaxation and pampering, RyanAir may not be for you.
Plan for Your Trip
- Considering taking a City Sightseeing Tour. This hop-on-hop-off bus was a great way to get around town. It included both transportation to popular landmarks as well as a audio guided tour on-board the bus. Don’t forget to bring your earphones! The cost for the bus tour was ONLY $20 for an ENTIRE day in Dublin, Ireland.
Book your lodging via AGODA. I found some really cheap hostel stays for only 7 euros a night in Rome. Definitely check here before going anywhere else!
- Book airport transportation within Europe with Looking 4 Transfers . I was able to find a 7 euro round-trip deal to Rome city-center from the airport.
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Join Alex and Larry on our journey, as we find love, eat great food, and travel to beautiful destinations. #weloveeattravel