european airlines

There are SO many airlines to consider, it's hard to answer your question - especially when some airlines build the price of the luggage "into" the ticket. You best bet would be to determine where you're headed, and see what budget airlines head that way, check out their prices (on their websites), and look at their luggage options. This link, budget airlines in Europe, can give you many of the web addresses for airlines in Europe and also sites that can tell you who flies from and to where. We travel often on budget airlines... but it's not just the luggage that they charge for. Using a credit card will cost you - pre-booking a seat will cost you - and any food and drink will cost you. Another factor is that many budget airlines fly to "out-of-the-norm" airports. Thus, the cost of getting to the airport offsets the price and the luggage charges! Another problem is that the most discounted flights ofen leave at say, 06:00. In some cities, like Rome, mass-transit cannot get you to the airport early enough so you have to book a shuttle or taxi. You need to factor that into the cost also. Luggage may the least of your worries!

I agree. It is hard to give you any meaningful advice or recommendation without knowing your planned itenirary in Europe The skies over Europe is a web of many many airlines, both budget and national carriers.....and they each have their individual advantages and negatives!

Ron, you have done a great job capturing the details re the lo-cost inter EU airlines! Erin, read Ron's info. Each inter EU airline publisizes their baggage info, and you will that most of them are the same. Mkake sure that you understand their size and weight limits!

Short Answer: ALL of them will have the charges....just like those back home (unless you have their tied in credit card, frequent mile platinum membership, etc.) The prior postings are right on point.

Another short answer: In general, low cost carriers charge for baggage, legacy carriers do not. But there are exceptions. BTW It is the opposite in the US, where legacy carriers now charge for baggage, but Southwest does not.

That is why I look into Eurolines.com for bus transport between cities and I also look into the trains.

Erin, all the answers re airlines are right on the nose. Note the last post re Eurolines bus...Good website, in English and the buses usually start and stop at the train stations in each location, plus are pretty reasonably priced.

Erin, As the others have mentioned, virtually all of the "budget" airlines have charges for checked luggage, and some are worse than others in this regard. It's impossible to answer your question without knowing which airline you're planning to use? You can find the information by checking the websites for whichever airlines you're planning to use. The best way to avoid excessive charges is to PACK LIGHT! Note that you'll also need to ensure that your carry-on luggage meets size and weight limits. European airlines generally only allow ONE carry-on item of the approved size and weight. This doesn't mean one plus a "personal item", it means ONLY ONLY! Some airlines have numerous other charges as well, so be sure to read the "Terms & Conditions" carefully. Good luck and happy travels!