Ryanair – How to Fly Cheap Across Europe

Ryanair is the go‑to airline if you want to hop between European cities without breaking the bank. The trick is not just booking the lowest price, but also knowing the rules that keep the cost low. Below you’ll get the most useful tips to snag deals, dodge hidden fees, and make the whole experience smoother.

Finding the Best Ryanair Deals

Start by checking Ryanair’s own website or app – they often release flash sales that other sites miss. Set a price alert for your route; most browsers let you save a search and get an email when the price drops. Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to have the cheapest fares because business travelers haven’t packed their bags yet.

Don’t forget to clear your cookies or use incognito mode before you search. Ryanair’s algorithm can raise prices after a few searches, assuming you’re getting desperate. A clean slate keeps the numbers honest.

Booking Smart – Avoiding Extra Charges

The base fare looks great, but the real cost lives in the extras. Choose a ‘Standard’ seat rather than ‘Priority’ unless you really need the early boarding. Pack light: Ryanair’s free cabin bag must fit under the seat and stay under 40 × 20 × 25 cm. Anything larger or heavier belongs in the hold, which you can pre‑pay at booking for up to 20 % off the airport price.

Skip the “Travel Insurance” upsell if you already have coverage through a credit card – it’s usually cheaper that way. Also, bring a printed boarding pass or use the app; printing at the airport costs extra and can delay you.

Check the airline’s baggage policy before you head to the airport. A common mistake is trying to fit a larger bag in the cabin and getting hit with a €50‑plus fee. If you need more space, add a checked bag online – it’s always cheaper than paying at the desk.

Seat selection costs around €5‑€10 per seat if you want a window or an aisle. If you’re not picky, let Ryanair assign you a seat for free and save a buck or two.

When you arrive at the airport, be early. Ryanair’s check‑in counters close 40 minutes before departure, and the boarding gate shuts 20 minutes prior. Missing those windows means a re‑booking fee that can wipe out any savings.

Finally, sign up for Ryanair’s “RSV” loyalty program. You don’t need to be a frequent flyer for it to pay off – members get occasional discount codes and early access to sales.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can travel across Europe for the price of a weekend getaway without the nasty surprises that turn a cheap flight into a pricey headache. Happy flying!