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Last minute charter flights

For those of you who have done it, how did you find your flight? Was it only one way, and if so what did you use for an inexpensive return flight to the US. Right now we are looking at just over $600 each for our round trip from the west coast to London, but if we can do better, we want to, and charter flights look like one of the ways.

Planning on leaving somewhere around the last week in March and returning in late July. And yes, we will be in the Schengen countries for less than 90 days. We also also have some latitude as to when we fly over and back but within the above two time periods.

Are looking to just get to Europe, we will use Ryan Air, Easyjet and others once we are there. I have to believe it can be done, just don't know how.

Posted by
1358 posts

Read the "Flying within Europe" section of this webpage. Some travelers complain about the distance from the city most airports used by RyanAir and Easyjet are.

You might use the search box at the top right of this page to ask about info on these lines.

There are also complaints about the restrictions and the charges made for luggage on these two airlines.

I would research both lines before booking if I were you.

Posted by
4555 posts

If you're getting RT from the west coast for $600, you're doing very well indeed! One way flights won't work, so grab those tickets while you can. Within Europe, there are many discount airlines. Ryanair has the worst reputation for flying from remote airports, which adds time and expense. To check for low cost airlines, look to whichbudget.com and flylc.com. If you find a good flight on flylc, go directly to the airline's website...don't book thru flylc. And check with the "big boys" on the routes you want. If there's competition from one of the discount airlines, they'll likely offer competitive rates, and a better schedule to boot. Just be very aware of luggage and check-in restrictions, and refundability and changeability (usually non-existent).

Posted by
9363 posts

I did essentially the same thing last year. I got a great roundtrip deal from Chicago to London, then used Ryanair from London to Spain. Coming back, I used Easyjet from a different city in Spain back to London. Yes, it can be done. Sorry, I don't have any experience with charter flights. Please PM me if you'd like details of my experience last year.

Posted by
3551 posts

Try a consolidator like cheaptickets. I used them last summer (July)for a great fare of $960 from sfo-frankfurt rtip.
consider someother destination also as there can be high airport fees for London or other UK destinations. bOOK NOW SINCE YOUR RETURN IS DURING PEAK SEASON.