Is that cheap ticket really a big win?

The $400 round-trip airfare to Europe you just spotted looks great! That’s why it can be a real shock when you hit the Check Out button and your cost has zoomed up to $800.

When you’re comparing airfare costs, double-check whether these items are included, and if they’re not, make sure you know what they will cost you:

• any luggage beyond your personal item (which is usually the size of a large purse)

• the size of an allowed carryon, and the fine if you go beyond it

• overhead storage access for your carryon

• in-flight entertainment

• food and drink served on flight

Airlines used to provide these amenities for free, but that’s not always the case now. Remember, too, that the number of people traveling is a big factor. It might make sense for one person to check a piece of luggage into the hold, with three more people in the family getting a small block of space inside it for the duration of the trip. Using that same concept, one person might bring snacks in a personal item; another person might bring bottled water. Sometimes to takes a village to transport a family.

You may still get a killer airfare rate; just know what you’re signing up for when you order it.