Ryanair not so cheap after all

The old saying, “if it’s too good to be true, then it probably is,” applies now more than ever to the discount carrier, Ryanair. The airline recently announced that passengers could incur almost a 50 percent price increase for checked baggage and checking-in at the desk.

It now costs £6 (about $12 U.S.; check XE.com for current exchange rates), up from £5, to check baggage, and airport check-in is up to £3 each time instead of £2.

Ryanair believes these increases will encourage passengers to bring only carry-on luggage and to check-in online, which will decrease airport lines and allow the airline to cut staff.

In fact, Ryanair will continue raising prices until at least 50 percent of its passengers comply. This may be all fine and dandy for those who can travel with only carry-on luggage and have a readily available computer to check-in before going to the airport. However, it’s going to end up costing those of us who need more than an overnight bag and may be far away from the Internet.

And though Ryanair is notorious for crazy sales, which is evidenced by its current Four Million Seat Sale, where you only pay taxes and extra fees, be aware that the ticket you purchased for £10 may not be such a steal after all. You might end up paying more for your luggage than your seat.