How budget airlines became more expensive than British Airways [Video]

When heading away on our summer holidays, most of us will always choose the ‘low-cost’ carrier option – especially if it’s a short-haul flight.

However, sometimes ‘low-cost’ doesn’t mean cheapest, and you may get better deals with more traditionally expensive airline options.

According to UK consumer champion Which?, extra charges for luggage and seat selection mean that the likes of Ryanair and other budget airlines may not have the cheapest tickets this summer.

The organisation compared the price of three popular April flights from London airports. The destinations were Malaga, Athens and Naples. At first, Ryanair’s initial fare was cheaper than British Airways and Jet2.

However, after the addition of bags and seat selection, British Airways came out on top in two of the three routes. Meanwhile, Jet2 was more affordable than Ryanair on the other route.

Ryanair’s basic fare only permits you to bring a backpack or handbag that fits under the seat in front …