We've used enough airports and flights since the reintroduction of foreign travel due to Covid. Mrs Lep always wanted us to use Aer Lingus and only Ryanair if absolutely necessary. We may have paid a few bob more for our Aer Lingus flights (but not always). I have no truck with Aer Lingus, but Ryanair has tried my patience on a number of occasions (nitty gritty rules, rude cabin crew, overloud cabin crew advertising scratch cards etc). I've seen passengers empty their carry-on bags and at the boarding area put on five or six tee-shirts, two jumpers and more stuff just to reduce the weight of the case. Like 'em or hate 'em this is what Ryanair does to increase its profits.
Here are some of my money saving tips if using Ryanair:-
1. Book your flights as far in advance as possible - I have figured out flights can be reduced in price on Tuesdays after midday for an hour or two.
2. Watch for flash sales (although this doesn't guarantee cheaper flights from the price of the day before, but some do).
3. Sometimes Ryanair advertises reduced fares to particular destinations. Just gauge prices (+add-ons) and use Ryanair to your advantage.
4. Airports to/from are also relevant issues. Car Parking, Taxi Costs, Times of Flights, Petrol Costs, Transfer Prices can lead to paying more. But, most people just book and go headlong into additional costs, but think these costs are per person.
5. You can bring a handy sized backpack on board at no extra cost. It must be stored underneath the seat in front of yours. Any man will have enough space for change of clothes - Saving €50 per person per flight out and another €50 per person on return flight.
6. If you enjoy a glass of wine or a drop of spirits during your flight. You can buy the small bottles of wine at the departing airport much cheaper than you would on board. You are entitled to put whiskey/vodka/gin etc in small sized see-through bottles (100ml) which will not be challenged by airport security and you're breaking no laws - bring a plastic tumbler in your luggage. Soft drink can be bought in airport beforehand.
7. Wear a coat/jacket with plenty of pockets and place any "overweight" items within. You are not going to be frisked.
8. Bring your own sandwiches and snack food and be mindful there may be people with nut allergies on board.
9. Book for holidays outside mid-July to mid-August where accommodation and flights are likely much cheaper.
10. Like the previous poster indicated just smile and likely you'll not be challenged.
And if you don't wish to do any of the above, that's OK too, but you'll be paying more than me. Use what you save for another holiday after you return.