44 Flight Booking Myths That Are Actually Wasting You Money

Myth 21: All Economy Seats Are the Same—So Pick the Cheapest

It’s easy to assume that every economy seat is identical, so you might as well book the cheapest ticket available. But airlines have intentionally created different tiers of economy class, and the lowest fare often comes with serious restrictions that can cost you more in the long run. Many airlines now offer Basic Economy, which is a stripped-down ticket versus Standard Economy fares—usually just $30–$50 more.Travelers who book Basic Economy without realizing its restrictions often end up paying more later for luggage fees or seat selection. Instead of automatically choosing the cheapest ticket, always compare what’s included—sometimes, spending a little more up front saves you more overall.