• Airlines

  • Booking an Economy Flight to France

    French Patisserie

    For travellers from the UK, France has much to recommend itself as a destination for a weekend break or a longer holiday, including, history, heritage, glorious cities, possibly the world’s best food and wine, and buzzing nightlife. In summer, there are beach resorts and in winter, there are world–famous ski resorts and, for those into other outdoor activities, a great choice. And, of course, there’s shopping… some of the best in the world, everywhere you go, including local markets and boutiques, at prices which are hard to resist.

    Cheap flights to France are now standard fare, with a good number of budget airlines offering flights to destinations all across the country. But, how do you avoid the extra charges incurred when paying by credit card, landing at an airport which is many miles from where you want to be, and the hassle of low-cost airline check-in counters? Here, you’ll find a few top tips when booking a cheap flight to France. Saving money on practicalities such as transportation leaves more cash to spend on essentials such as great food and local wines and cheeses.

    Ultra Economy

    Firstly, and most importantly, realise that the published ultra-bargain fare, especially at special offer time, has absolutely nothing to do with the final charges for your flight. Ryanair’s website appears in media articles and online travel forums on a regular basis for its crafty add-ons for extra baggage (half an inch larger or one pound heavier than the stated size as weighed and measured by their own equipment) and its other clever ways of upping the price.

    Air France Airbus A318-111 F-GUGR (28964)

    Picking Up Costs In Other Areas

    Other much-criticised marketing ploys include charges for choosing a seat for groups or families wishing to travel together, inflated prices for refreshments and, in a move ruled illegal by the European courts, charging a high percentage of the total price for credit card bookings. What else is one supposed to do when booking a flight online? This one’s still in the appeals stage, so watch for more details.

    The Bare Minimum

    Let’s face it, all you actually need if you’re travelling to France is a seat, any seat, on an aircraft heading in that direction. So, book just your flight, make certain your cabin bag is significantly smaller and lighter than the guidelines, and don’t take any other baggage. Have a great meal before you leave, and remember to bring your e-ticket and boarding pass with you or you’ll get an expensive shock at check-in. This way you’ll get the very cheapest fare.

     

    Is France Cheap?

    It also helps to check the location of your destination airport. For example, if you’re heading for Paris, certain low-cost carriers may dump you down at Charleroi, more than 40 miles from the city, leaving you to find the best and most economical way to get to your final destination. Your time and your money is at risk here, as onward transportation in France isn’t cheap! You may even find that a special offer from a full-service airline will get you to Charles de Gaulle International Airport at very little more than you’re paying your budget carrier.

    Plan Your Trip Wisely

    Booking a trip in the off-season, avoiding the busy summer months around August, the Easter holiday period and the high skiing season around Christmas is also a good way to bag a bargain. In the south of France, spring weather is warm, and the countryside is glowing with flowers. If you’re planning a skiing holiday, many resorts stay open until late April with the help of snow machines and the early spring flowers are already in full bloom on the lower slopes.

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