In this post we cover best airlines to fly with for digital nomads!
Traveling in today’s age has become so accessible, that it can be hard to pick which airline is going to give you the best value. Each one of us has different reasons to fly, as well as what they want when they are doing so. This in turn is going to drastically change what you are looking for when you book a ticket. A unique group of people, digital nomads, have their own challenges. They not only travel a lot, but they do so not knowing when they will be back, and what country they will be flying back from. For these individuals, it is important to utilize airlines that have cheap one-way tickets, as well as carry-on baggage policies that are either included in the ticket price, or the ticket and price of carry-on is cheap enough to justify it all. With this being said, here is a list of best airlines to fly with for digital nomads, that I would suggest looking into before you book your ticket.
Best Airlines to Fly with For Digital Nomads
Southwest Airlines
If you are looking for a great domestic carrier out of the U.S. I would highly suggest looking into this airline. Not only are they known for their hospitality, but they have cheap fares, and great baggage policies. They do offer a select few international destinations, but they would primarily be utilized for domestic destinations within the United States. They have hubs in multiple locations across the United States, offering easy access to a wide array of locations. However, do know that with Southwest, you don’t pick your seat assignment. They go based off of when you check-in for your flight. This will place you into certain boarding groups, and from there when you are called, you will pick where you want to sit. This is something many people like, but others could pass on when it comes to traveling. You could very well get a seat you like, but you could also get stuck with the middle seat. All paying the same price.
Their carry-on baggage policy allows for one bag, plus one smaller personal item. If you are looking to check a bag, they also offer two checked pieces of baggage per ticket. This is great if you are putting all of your items into one bag, and need to have it on your person while traveling. They have some of the best baggage policies in the industry. It really makes it less of a hassle and you don’t have any hidden fees like some other low-cost carriers.
British Airways
Another carrier with cheap one-way tickets, and a carry-on baggage policy that is perfect if you are only going to be carrying what you need with you in the cabin. They offer 1 handbag/laptop bag max of 51 lbs, and always check to see each airlines bag dimensions. Plus, one additional cabin bag at a max of 51 lbs. They offer flights throughout Europe, North America, Caribbean and South America, Middle East, South and Central Asia, Africa, Far East and Australia. A great range of destinations to choose from, all at very reasonable prices.
Qatar Airways (Oneworld Alliance)
Qatar Airways is a great airline to utilize if you are looking for luxury, as well as fair ticket prices. They pride themselves on serving all six continents with over 160 destinations every day. Granted, you might have to connect to get to your final destination, but each airline in the Oneworld alliance, has standards to uphold. You may buy a ticket through Qatar, but have flights on another airline such as: American Airlines to get to your final destination. Qatar has been voted airline of the year by Skytrax in 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017 and 2019. Their baggage policy is different depending on which class you purchase. First and business class are allowed two pieces, where economy is allowed one.
Emirates
Emirates is another airline to watch out for. They are a very impressive airline, that offers top of the line service. With 159 destinations in over 80 countries you are bound to find a destination of your choosing. In Economy they offer one carry on bag with a limit of 15 lbs. Business and First class are allowed to have two bags, at 15 lbs each. They have a fleet size of 270, which means you have a wide range of aircraft to choose from, as well as cabin seats. As a nomad, I would personally choose the cheapest ticket, but sometimes you want to splurge and Emirates gives you plenty of opportunities to do so. On international flights, you can expect to be taken care of exceptionally well, regardless of what cabin you end up in.
Norwegian
If you are looking for a carrier who prides themselves on offering low fares worldwide, then Norwegian might be who you choose. Voted world’s best low-cost long-haul airline by Skytrax for 2019, as well as Europe’s best low-cost airline from 2013-2018, they are clearly well known throughout the industry for offering low fares. They even have free WiFi onboard, if this is something you would usually pay for during flight. They fly to more than 150 destinations worldwide, with over 500 routes. However, they are like other low-cost carriers where if you want more, you’re going to have to pay for it. They offer exceptionally low priced tickets, but bags, meals, etc are going to cost you more. If you are someone who can travel without all of the extras that others airlines include in their ticket prices, this is a great option. If you are accustomed to getting a cheap fare, and all the added perks, then you might want to keep looking.
Eurowings
Eurowings is another low-cost airline, offering four levels of service. Basic, Smart, Best and Biclass. Basic fare is their budget fare which only includes the flight. Anything else you will have to add to this ticket. Smart fare is their standard fare which includes one checked bag, one carry-on item and free seat reservation. Best fare offers an exclusive seat in what they call the “best section,” with more legroom, allowed to have more baggage, and meal service. This is only available on long-haul routes. Their Bizclass fare is a premium fare for short, medium and long haul routes. This is their first class service, and is available on select routes. When you need to travel for cheap, having this many options can be an amazing part of who you choose to fly with. Eurowings gives you a multitude of options, truly just depends on what you are willing to spend, and what type of comfort you are looking for.
AirAsia
AirAsia is a low-cost Malaysian airline with headquarters out of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. They offer 165 destinations across 25 countries. They are also unique in the sense that on their website, they offer hotels and activities for you to choose as well. Making it easier for last minute travel. As with other low-cost carriers, you get what you pay for. This gives you the opportunity to pick exactly what you want to spend money on.
Singapore Airlines
If you’re looking for a five star rated airline, with decently priced tickets Singapore Airlines is a solid choice. You are going to be paying more than most of the low-cost carriers, but if you are okay with paying a little more to get the service you want, than this is a great option to do so. In regards to baggage, Suites, First and Business class are allowed two carry on bags. Premium economy and economy are allowed one carry-on. You can expect you will be treated exceptionally well in all cabins.
Easy Jet
I do have to say that their website is not conducive to booking your travel easily. It is hard to find exactly what you are looking for, but they do offer cheap travel. Another low-cost carrier, you are going to be paying for what you want. Be weary of what they offer you while you are going through the booking process. Only select what you want. If you are able to go through this and not be pushed into buying things you don’t need, you can keep your ticket price low. They primarily fly throughout Europe, but also have destinations in Africa, as well as parts of the Middle East.
Spirit Airlines
An ultra-low-cost carrier in the United States known for its “bare fares.” You are truly paying for your seat and a small personal item. Everything else, you have to pay for. Again, it is what you’re looking for. If you can pack your items in a small bag and be content with having nothing on the plane, than this is the airline for you. Can you really pass up on a thirty dollar ticket? Of course, the more you add, the more the price goes up. Make sure to see what other airlines are charging that have everything included in the original price. These airlines may offer extremely cheap tickets, but once you put everything you want, it might not be as cheap as you thought it was going to be. Take the time to see if it really is going to be cheaper than the competition.
Hong Kong Express
Hong Kong Express is a low-cost carrier that is focused on travel throughout Asia. Like the other LCC’s on this list, Hong Kong Express also lets you pick and choose what you would like to add to your travel experience. Checked bags, extra leg room, meals, beverages, etc. You are only paying for the services you want, which is how they keep the fares low. Another great option to choose from, if you are in need of travel options around Asia.
Ryanair
Another low-cost carrier with destinations throughout Europe. Ryanair is another good alternative if you are looking for an airline that gives you the opportunity to pick and choose what you would like while on your flight. If you want a carry-on bag and a small personal item, they are going to charge you around eight euro. As a example of how things can start getting added to the low-cost ticket. If you are looking to fly from point A, to point B for a cheap fare, Ryanair is one of the low-cost European airlines you should look into.
Conclusion
In an industry full of competition, there are lots of ways you can find cheap tickets to get to the destination of your choosing. If price is what you are going for, then many of the airlines above will get you to where you need to be, for a very cheap price. However, you need to remember that with a cheap ticket price also comes less service in most occasions. You are truly paying for what you get. Other airlines, you are going to get an elevated service, but you are usually also going to get an elevated price. The list above gives you a wide array of airlines on both sides of the spectrum. Each one offering fares that are lower than most other airlines. It’s up to you exactly what you are looking for, but they are great resources to start looking.
Take your time, look at different airlines and compare. Use apps that will help you find the cheapest ticket, but do your research. You need to read exactly what comes with that price. Some people can be extremely disappointed when they find out they have to pay for a beverage onboard, but they have to think back to how much their ticket truly cost. Do you want all the bells and whistles, or do you want to get to where you’re going, and then spend that extra money you saved on something else? It’s up to you! When you are a digital nomad, you never know where life is going to take you. You need to have the flexibility to purchase one-way tickets at any point in time. These carriers will help you get to your destination, and most importantly, cheaply.
Hope you enjoyed this post on best airlines to fly with for digital nomads! Let us know in the comments if you have other additions.
