I was wondering if there is any way that the flight comparison websites can include baggage costs for the budget airlines when it compares the prices?
Alternatively, when it directs me to booking websites eg Expedia etc, is there any way of purchasing the tickets inclusive of baggage? They only seem to have prices which are for hand luggage only, and that would mean having to purchase checked in baggage at inflated prices at the counter or via the airline website after tickets are issued.
Have never come across one. That would make comparison across budget airlines (or even vs full service airlines) so much easier. But then, they might also have to add options for different baggage allowance, meals and seat selection, etc. That would make the search process too difficult.
For LCCs, I'd normally jump onto their own websites to check the all-in price if the basic price shown on the comparison sites is significantly lower than the price for full service airlines
Spreadsheet time!
Purchasing checked-in baggage doesn't add anything extra buying after the tickets are purchased. Except if you buy at the counter. And I am yet to see a significant difference in ticket pricing whether purchased from aggregator sites or direct from the airline. Use webjet/expedia/skyscanner/iwantthatflight/ etc to find the flight at the right price point. Then jump onto the airline website to book direct, and add in your checked baggage at that point also.