What is included in a flight fare? How to read the small print

What makes up a flight fare?

A fare is made up of a base fare plus taxes and charges. The base fare is the airline's price for the seat itself. Taxes and charges are added by governments and airports, and they vary by route and country.

The total you see on a booking site should include everything you must pay. Some taxes are fixed, while others depend on the airport or the distance you fly. The price we show is the lowest fare seen at that moment and can change quickly.

When you compare flights on FindMyFlight, results are listed by price, low to high, whatever the commission. FindMyFlight is free to use and never adds anything to a fare. You book and pay the airline or partner directly, on their website.

Why do fare types matter?

Many airlines sell several fare types, often called basic, standard and flexible, and the names differ by airline. The fare type decides what is included: bags, seat choice, meals, changes and refunds. A basic fare may not include a checked bag or seat selection.

A standard fare might include a checked bag and allow seat choice at booking. A flexible fare usually allows changes and refunds with fewer fees. The exact inclusions vary, so check the airline's fare rules for your specific route.

Change and cancellation rules can differ a lot between fare types. Some fares are non-refundable, while others allow changes for a fee. Always read the conditions before you pay, because the lowest fare may cost more if your plans change.

What is usually included in a basic fare?

A basic fare typically includes only a seat and a small personal item. Checked baggage, seat choice and meals may cost extra. Some airlines do not allow any changes or refunds on basic fares.

The exact inclusions depend on the airline and the route. Short-haul flights often have fewer inclusions than long-haul flights. For example, a long-haul basic fare may still include a meal, while a short-haul one may not.

Before booking a basic fare, add up the cost of any extras you need. A higher fare type may work out less expensive overall if you need a bag or flexibility. Compare the total cost, not just the headline price.

• Personal item only, no checked bag
• Seat assigned at check-in, not before
• No changes or refunds, or high fees
• Meals and drinks often not included

What do standard and flexible fares include?

A standard fare usually includes a checked bag and seat selection at booking. Meals may be included on longer flights. Change fees are often lower than on basic fares, but refunds may still not be allowed.

A flexible fare typically includes all standard benefits plus free changes and refunds. Some flexible fares allow same-day changes or full refunds. The exact rules vary by airline and route, so check the fare conditions.

If your plans might change, a flexible fare can save you money in the long run. A non-refundable fare may seem less expensive, but a change fee could wipe out the saving. Look at the total cost for your situation before you book.

How do taxes and charges affect the price?

Taxes and charges are added to the base fare and can be a large part of the total. They include government taxes, airport fees and security charges. Some are per passenger, while others are per flight or per route.

The amount varies by country and airport. For example, flying from a large hub may have higher airport charges than a smaller regional airport. Fuel surcharges may also be included in the fare, depending on the airline.

The price we show includes all mandatory taxes and charges. FindMyFlight never adds anything to a fare. If you book through a partner link FindMyFlight may earn a commission from the partner, at no extra cost to you. This never changes the price or the order of results.

How to read the small print before booking

Always check the fare rules before you pay. Look for what is included in the fare type, and what costs extra. Check the change and cancellation policy, and any fees for bags or seat selection.

The fare rules are usually shown on the airline's website before you confirm. Some airlines show a summary, with a link to the full conditions. Read the full conditions if you are unsure about anything.

If you book through a partner, the partner's site should also show the fare rules. You book and pay the airline or partner directly. FindMyFlight takes no payment, so any questions about your booking go to the airline or partner.

• Check what is included in the fare type
• Look at change and cancellation fees
• Add up the cost of any extras you need
• Read the full fare conditions before paying

Why compare fares before you book?

Fares can vary a lot between airlines and even between fare types on the same airline. Comparing the total cost, including extras, helps you find good value for your needs. Look before you book to avoid surprises later.

On FindMyFlight, results are listed by price, low to high, whatever the commission. You can compare different airlines and fare types side by side. The price we show is the lowest fare seen at that moment and can change quickly.

Remember that the lowest fare may not be the right choice if you need bags or flexibility. Compare the total cost for your trip, not just the headline price. A little time spent comparing can save you money and stress.

Questions and answers

Does the price shown include all taxes and charges?

Yes, the price shown on FindMyFlight includes all mandatory taxes and charges. FindMyFlight never adds anything to a fare. You book and pay the airline or partner directly, on their website.

What is the difference between basic and standard fares?

A basic fare usually includes only a seat and a small personal item. A standard fare often includes a checked bag and seat selection. The exact inclusions vary by airline and route, so check the fare rules.

Can I change or cancel a basic fare?

Change and cancellation rules differ a lot between fare types. Basic fares often have high fees or no changes allowed. Always check the fare conditions before you book.

Why do fares change so quickly?

The price we show is the lowest fare seen at that moment and can change quickly. Airlines update prices based on demand and availability. The fare you see may not be available when you try to book.

Does FindMyFlight charge any fees?

No, FindMyFlight is free to use and never adds anything to a fare. If you book through a partner link, FindMyFlight may earn a commission from the partner, at no extra cost to you. This never changes the price or the order of results.