The Frugal Pilgrim

View Original

Budget Airline Packing Hacks

With choices for cheap flights constantly on the rise, flying across the world is easier than ever. That said, It can also be the most boring 7+ hours of your life! With lower costs comes fewer entertainment choices on board.. in fact most budget transatlantic airlines flying out of the east like Norwegian and WOW, there aren't ANY entertainment options, or Wi-Fi! That’s why it’s crazy important to pack a few essentials:

  • A device loaded with pre-downloaded movies/podcasts/audiobooks.

    I use Netflix’s download feature for movies and tv, and make sure to actually download my podcasts that are cloud stored.

  • Headphones, adapters, and a splitter

    My travel buddies and/or my unprepared seatmate are always happy to watch movies together.

  • Skip the outlandishly priced flight add-ons

    Except for checked luggage, I opt out of choosing my seats, priority boarding, and inflight meals. I figure whether I’m on the plane first or last, I’m still getting to my destination at the same time. As for meals.. there’s no way I’m paying 45$ for a lukewarm "meat or vegetable” dinner. Instead, I pack snacks, sandwiches and an empty water battle in my personal carry-on. Fill your water at the airport and you’re set to take off!

  • So that’s why they’re called airplane bottles

    Yep. Use your liquid allotment on alcohol instead of shampoo! You can take as many 3.4oz bottles that fit into a clear quart sized bag as you can!

  • Flyin first class, up in the sky

    Okay, so maybe not exactly like Fergie does, but if you want to treat yo’self a little, Norwegian Airlines will be your best friend. On their long haul flights, they offer premium seating for the same price as a regular airline’s coach seats. Seriously guys, I once booked a last minute flight from LAX to London Heathrow for $430. With the upgrade, I was allowed two checked bags.. meaning packing was zero issue. Sometime the peace of mind is worth the extra cash!