The Best Budget Airlines in Europe: What to Expect, Tips & Top Carriers

What are budget airlines in Europe?

European budget airlines—often called low-cost carriers—offer a straightforward way to fly for less. Instead of bundling bags, meals, or seat choices into the ticket price, they keep fares low by letting you pay only for the extras you want. Carriers like Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air, Vueling, and Eurowings follow this model, making air travel across Europe affordable, flexible, and perfect for quick city breaks.

Why fly with a European budget airline?

Low-cost carriers have transformed travel across Europe. Instead of choosing between pricey full-service airlines or long train journeys, travellers now have access to thousands of cheap routes—often for the cost of a takeaway pizza. With wide networks, frequent flights, and prices that make spontaneous trips possible, Europe’s budget airlines have opened the door to more accessible, everyday travel.

Benefits of European budget airlines

Cost savings
One of the biggest advantages is just how affordable flights can be. Finding fares under £20 isn’t unusual—especially if you book ahead or travel midweek. That means more of your budget goes toward cafés, museums, and experiences, not transportation.

Extensive route networks
European budget airlines fly to hundreds of destinations, from major hubs to smaller regional airports. Many even offer direct routes that full-service airlines don’t, giving you easier access to lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path cities and holiday spots.

Flexible and frequent flights
With multiple daily departures on many popular routes, Europe’s low-cost carriers make it easy to fit travel into your life—whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, visiting friends, or working remotely across borders.

Perfect for light travel
If you're only away for a few days and don’t need checked luggage or onboard meals, budget airlines are ideal. You get a low fare without paying for extras you don’t plan to use.

Potential drawbacks of European budget airlines

Cheap flights are excellent—but there are a few things to keep in mind:

Extra fees
Add-ons like cabin bags, checked luggage, priority boarding, seat selection, or even printing your boarding pass at the airport can increase costs if you’re not prepared.

Strict baggage policies
Low-cost carriers are known for enforcing size and weight limits closely. Even a slightly oversized bag may lead to a last-minute gate fee. Always check your airline’s baggage rules before travelling.

Secondary airports
Many budget airlines use smaller or regional airports—like London Stansted instead of Heathrow, Beauvais instead of central Paris, or Hahn instead of Frankfurt. These airports can offer great value but may be farther from your final destination.

Virgin Atlantic

It might surprise you, but one of the best-value airlines out there isn’t a budget carrier at all — it’s Virgin Atlantic. Known for its bold branding, great service, and all-around enjoyable flying experience, Virgin often offers fares that compete closely with low-cost airlines, but without the stripped-back feel.

With its main hub at London Heathrow, Virgin Atlantic connects travelers to destinations across Europe, North America, Africa, and Asia. And even with these competitive prices, you still get all the little comforts that make a flight feel smoother: friendly cabin crews, cozy seating, and a genuinely good entertainment lineup. It’s no wonder Virgin is consistently ranked as one of the top airlines in the UK.

The only real limitation is its size. Virgin Atlantic carries fewer passengers than big players like British Airways or easyJet, which means its network isn’t quite as extensive. But for the routes it does fly, the value is hard to beat.

In short: Virgin Atlantic proves that you don’t need to choose between affordability and comfort — you can absolutely have both.

Volotea

Volotea is a Spanish low-cost airline with a pretty refreshing mission: connecting the smaller and mid-sized European cities that big airlines tend to overlook. Instead of focusing only on major hubs, Volotea aims to make regional travel easier, cheaper, and far more convenient — a huge win for travelers who prefer skipping long train transfers or complicated multi-stop routes.

What makes Volotea stand out is its balance of affordable pricing and a pleasant in-flight experience. While it keeps costs low, the airline is known for providing a comfortable cabin environment, friendly service, and an overall smoother experience compared to some of the more bare-bones budget carriers. It also has a strong presence in France, Spain, and Italy, making it especially useful if you’re exploring southern or western Europe.

By 2024, Volotea was operating up to 450 routes across 18 countries, connecting more than 100 cities—and here’s the impressive part: over half of those routes are exclusive to Volotea. That means they’re the only airline flying them. Routes like Milan Bergamo–Lyon, Malta–Bordeaux, and Comiso–Lille are perfect examples of the airline’s focus on making “hard-to-reach” destinations much more accessible.

With its combination of smart route choices, wallet-friendly fares, and traveler-focused service, it’s no surprise that Volotea was named Europe’s Leading Low-Cost Airline at the 2024 World Travel Awards. For anyone looking to explore Europe beyond the usual hotspots, Volotea is definitely a carrier worth keeping on your radar.

Transavia

Transavia hits that perfect middle ground between affordability and comfort — ideal if you want low-cost fares without feeling like you're sacrificing too much along the way. Travelers love it for its warm, easygoing crews, reliable on-time performance, and a route network packed with Europe’s most popular holiday spots. Whether you’re chasing beaches, sunshine, or a quick city break, Transavia keeps things simple and pleasant.

Because it’s part of the Air France–KLM group, Transavia has the added bonus of big-airline stability behind it. You still get the low-cost model — paying only for the extras you want — but with a level of structure and consistency that many budget airlines don’t offer. This makes it especially appealing for travelers who want something cheap yet dependable, whether they’re flying for fun or heading off on a weekend getaway.

As of April 2025, Transavia serves 3 domestic destinations and 86 international destinations across 25 countries, stretching from Western Europe down to sunny escapes in Southern Europe and North Africa. Think Portugal, Greece, Spain, Morocco — all the classic vacation-friendly spots.

With that kind of reach and its solid reputation, it’s easy to see why Transavia earned the title of 5th Best Low-Cost Airline in the World. For anyone who wants budget-friendly pricing but still appreciates a comfortable cabin and reliable service, Transavia is one of the best options out there.

Vueling

Vueling is one of Spain’s favorite low-cost airlines — and for good reason. With a huge network that stretches across Europe and major hubs in Barcelona and Rome, it’s a go-to option for everything from quick weekend getaways to summer adventures around the Mediterranean. Whether you’re jetting between Spanish cities or exploring France, Italy, or other nearby destinations, Vueling keeps travel simple and accessible.

One of the handy things about flying with Vueling is the choice of fare bundles: Basic, Optima, and TimeFlex. These let you tailor your ticket to your needs — maybe you want the cheapest possible fare, maybe you prefer flexibility if your plans change, or maybe you want to add extras like checked luggage or a specific seat. The à-la-carte setup makes it easy to pay only for what you actually need.

As part of the IAG group (the same family as Iberia and British Airways), Vueling also participates in the Avios loyalty program, which is a big plus for frequent travelers. You can earn points on Vueling flights and then redeem them across multiple airlines, giving you more value and flexibility than many low-cost carriers usually offer.

While you’ll still pay extra for things like seat selection or checked baggage, Vueling stands out for its smooth digital experience — from app-based boarding passes to clear booking options — and its solid reliability. It’s especially convenient for regional routes within Spain (Barcelona–Seville, Bilbao–Málaga, etc.) and for direct city-to-city connections that bigger airlines tend to overlook.

With its strong network, modern feel, and traveler-friendly approach, it’s no surprise that Vueling earned the title of 7th Best Low-Cost Airline in the World.

Ryanair

Ryanair is easily Europe’s best-known budget airline — and it’s not hard to see why. With famously low fares (sometimes shockingly low), it’s often the cheapest way to get from one European city to another. If you plan ahead and pack light, you can score flights for the price of a meal. And with a massive network covering 229 destinations in 37 countries, Ryanair reaches places many airlines don’t, including smaller or secondary airports that can get you closer to lesser-known towns and regions.

But Ryanair’s low prices come with a very clear trade-off: this airline is all about sticking to the rules. Extras like seat selection, priority boarding, or checked luggage will cost you, and the baggage-size limits are enforced very strictly. If your bag is even a little too big, expect to pay at the gate. And details matter — forgetting to check in on time or failing to bring the right type of boarding pass can lead to unexpected fees. The good news? Once you know the rules, it’s easy to avoid the pitfalls.

Where Ryanair shines is in its efficiency. The airline operates more daily flights than any other low-cost carrier in Europe and has a strong record for on-time performance. Flights are simple, fast, and usually run like clockwork — exactly what many travelers want when hopping around the continent.

With ultra-low fares, unmatched coverage, and reliable turnaround times, Ryanair continues to dominate the European budget airline scene. It’s no surprise it earned a spot as the 10th Best Low-Cost Airline in the World.

easyJet

easyJet is one of the UK’s most popular low-cost airlines and a reliable choice for affordable travel across Western Europe. One of its biggest perks is that it flies to major airports rather than far-out secondary ones, making it much easier (and often cheaper) to get into the city once you land. Travelers also appreciate options like Flexi fares, seat selection, and a generous standard cabin bag allowance, making it a solid pick for both business and leisure trips.

The airline operates over 1,000 routes in more than 35 countries, connecting big cities and popular holiday spots throughout Europe and North Africa. It also earned a spot as the 11th Best Low-Cost Airline in the World, giving it even more credibility with frequent travelers.

easyJet’s baggage rules are strict—when they say one cabin bag, they mean one cabin bag. There’s no extra purse, small backpack, or camera bag unless it fits inside your main personal item. Gate agents really do check, and fees can be steep if your bag is oversized.

Another tip? Check in as early as possible, especially during the busy summer season. easyJet opens online check-in 30 days before departure, and it’s worth doing it right away. Travelers have reported situations where flights were overbooked and late check-in led to being placed on standby.

Wizz Air

Wizz Air might have a quirky name, but it’s one of the go-to low-cost airlines for ultra-cheap fares across Europe — and even into North Africa. Its basic tickets include only a small personal item, so you’ll pay extra for larger carry-ons or checked bags. That said, frequent travelers can save quite a bit with Wizz Air’s discount clubs or the “All You Can Fly” membership, which offers unlimited flights for a fixed yearly fee (though standard add-on fees still apply).

The airline operates 800 routes from 32 bases in 16 countries, connecting nearly 200 destinations — making it easy to find a bargain flight, especially in Central and Eastern Europe.

Travelers often praise Wizz Air for surprisingly low fares and the occasional pleasant surprise. For example, even without paying for seat selection, some passengers still end up seated together, and crews sometimes allow travelers to spread out if the flight isn’t full — a small gesture that goes a long way.

Norwegian Air Shuttle

Norwegian Air Shuttle is a well-known low-cost carrier based in—no surprise—Norway. While it once made headlines for its ultra-affordable transatlantic flights, the airline now focuses on regional European routes, offering a comfortable experience at a reasonable price. Many flights include free Wi-Fi and a more relaxed cabin atmosphere, giving Norwegian a slight edge over the more bare-bones budget airlines. Just keep in mind that extras like meals, checked bags, and seat selection still come with additional fees.

Today, Norwegian operates a strong short-haul network across the Nordic countries and to popular destinations throughout Europe.

Travelers consistently praise the airline for comfort and service, and Norwegian has even been named “World’s Best Low-Cost Long-Haul Airline” five years in a row at the Skytrax Awards.

That said, experiences can vary depending on the aircraft. Some flights offer great service and free Wi-Fi, while others may feel more basic — especially on older planes. In some cases, even simple purchases onboard can be hit-or-miss if payment systems aren’t working.

Eurowings

Eurowings is Lufthansa Group’s low-cost airline, which means you get budget-friendly fares backed by the structure, reliability, and professionalism of a major legacy carrier. While it’s not usually as dirt-cheap as Ryanair or Wizz Air, many travelers see the slightly higher price as worth it for a smoother experience.

Because Eurowings operates from major German hubs like Düsseldorf, Cologne, and Hamburg, it’s a convenient option for connecting across Europe without the hassle of remote airports or ultra-strict baggage rules. This makes it especially appealing if you’re piecing together a multi-leg itinerary and want a bit more flexibility with luggage, seating, and overall comfort.

The airline serves more than 210 destinations worldwide, with most routes centered around European cities, Mediterranean beach spots, and popular holiday destinations. Think city breaks, island getaways, and easy hops across central Europe — all with the reliability of a big-name brand behind the scenes.

Eurowings offers a nice middle ground between ultra-low-cost airlines and full-service carriers — affordable fares, decent comfort, and fewer surprises along the way.

SAS Low Cost (SAS Go Light)

SAS (Scandinavian Airlines) isn’t a low-cost airline in the traditional sense, but it does offer a budget-friendly fare option called Go Light. This fare is perfect if you want the reliability and comfort of a full-service airline but don’t mind skipping extras like checked baggage. You still get the professionalism, smooth operations, and Scandinavian efficiency SAS is known for — just at a lighter price.

Go Light fares are available on many short-haul European routes, as well as select transatlantic flights departing from the airline’s main hubs in Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Oslo. Within Europe, these fares can be surprisingly competitive, especially if you’re traveling with just a carry-on and want to avoid the strict rules often found on ultra-low-cost carriers.

One of the biggest perks of choosing SAS Go Light is that you still enjoy the benefits of flying with a major legacy airline: spacious cabins by European standards, professional crews, and access to a wide connecting network across Europe, North America, and Asia. It’s a great option for travelers who want affordability without feeling like they’ve sacrificed comfort or reliability.

SAS Go Light is a smart middle ground — you get the price of a budget fare with the dependability of a full-service Scandinavian airline.

Smart tips for flying with Europe’s budget airlines

Europe’s low-cost airlines have revolutionised travel. With carriers like Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air, Vueling, and Eurowings offering flights for the price of a dinner out, hopping around the continent has never been easier. But to really take advantage of those tempting fares—and avoid any surprise add-ons—it helps to know how these airlines work. Here’s how to fly smarter with Europe’s budget carriers.

1. Look beyond the headline fare

That £9.99 ticket is real… but so are the extras. European budget airlines often charge for things that traditional carriers include, such as:

• Cabin bags (sometimes even the larger “personal item”)

• Checked luggage

• Seat selection or priority boarding

• Food, drinks, and in-flight extras

Before booking, check the full cost with the add-ons you actually need. Some airlines charge more for bags but less for seats, so comparing the total cost—not just the base fare—helps you get the best deal.

2. Travel midweek for the lowest prices

Budget airlines adjust fares constantly, and weekends (Friday to Sunday) are always busier. If you can, fly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays for the best savings. Just keep in mind that school holidays across Europe can push prices up, even midweek—so booking early pays off.

3. Consider secondary airports

Many European low-cost airlines focus on smaller or regional airports to keep fees low. These can offer excellent value, such as:

• Liverpool or Leeds-Bradford instead of Manchester

• Glasgow or Belfast International for Scottish and Northern Irish departures

• London Luton or Stansted instead of Heathrow or Gatwick

These airports are often quicker to navigate and less congested—plus, flights can be significantly cheaper.

4. Book early for popular routes

While budget carriers are known for cheap fares, prices still rise as seats fill up. For city-break favourites like Barcelona, Rome, or Amsterdam, booking well in advance usually locks in the lowest costs. If your dates are fixed, don’t gamble—grab the good fares early.

5. Check for flight + hotel bundles

Many European budget airlines offer package holidays that bundle flights, hotels, and sometimes transfers. These can be surprisingly affordable, especially outside peak season. If your plans are flexible, last-minute deals can also deliver big savings.

Travel prepared — from flying low-cost to knowing your rights

Choosing a budget airline is a fantastic way to save money and explore more of Europe, but low fares often come with tight baggage rules, add-on fees, and the occasional schedule change. Understanding how these airlines work helps you plan smarter—but there’s something even more important to know: your passenger rights when things don’t go as expected.

Even the most reliable carriers can face delays, cancellations, or baggage issues. Weather, busy travel seasons, or simple operational hiccups can disrupt any trip—whether you're flying with a major legacy airline or hopping between cities on a low-cost carrier like Ryanair, Vueling, or Wizz Air. That’s why being a confident traveler isn’t just about choosing the right airline; it’s about understanding what you’re entitled to when disruptions happen.

The good news? If you’re flying to, from, or within the EU, UK, Iceland, Norway, or Switzerland, strong air passenger protection laws are in place to make sure you’re treated fairly—no matter how much (or how little) you paid for your ticket.

Here’s what those rights cover:

• Flight Cancellations: You may be entitled to a full refund, rebooking, and in many cases up to £520 in compensation.

• Delays Over 3 Hours: Airlines must offer assistance like meals, accommodation if needed, and potential compensation.

• Denied Boarding (Overbooking): If you're bumped from your flight, you’re owed immediate compensation plus a new travel arrangement.

• Baggage Issues: Lost, delayed, or damaged luggage can be reimbursed, often up to around £1,550.

Knowing these protections means you’re not just saving money by flying budget—you’re also staying empowered when plans change. With the right information, you can handle disruptions confidently, advocate for yourself, and keep your trip moving smoothly, no matter which airline gets you there.