We put this low-cost airline to the test - and it surprised us

When space counts on a budget, this low-cost airline fits the bill.

A dozen years since Scoot first entered Aussie skies, the Singaporean low-cost carrier continues to make its mark at often ridiculously low fares, like the recent $395 one-way to Europe. Today's journey is at the pointy end in the ScootPlus cabin - Scoot's no-frills version of Premium Economy - on a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, taking off at 12.25pm for the eight hour trip.

CHECKING IN: The premium experience does not get off to a good start with the Plus passengers informed the dedicated check-in agent has gone on a break. Almost 20 minutes later, I reach the counter with my 11kg of luggage, which proves bad planning on my behalf as Plus cabin allowance is 15kg, and in Economy it's 10kg. Checked baggage is a generous 30kg. When the agent sees my compact bag, she suggests I instead take it with me.

THE FLIGHT: The Plus cabin is packed, and a bottle of water is waiting on each armrest. When a crew member finally appears, she checks on my meal choice. After a 30-minute delay we're in the skies just after 1pm, but the flight makes up most of the lost time.

THE CLASS: I'm in the second back row on the aisle in 4H. There are 35 seats across five rows in a 2-3-2 configuration, with a seat pitch of 96cm, width of 56cm and recline of 15cm, about the same as Qantas Premium. The leather seat is comfy, but the cabin needs a decent clean as there's old food containers shoved under the seat and the carpets were dirty. In-seat power is included, and the tray table is big enough to rest a laptop. Creature comforts like a blanket can be had for $19. Plus also has its own toilet.

FOOD & DRINK: One meal and drink is included in the Plus package and two hours after take-off, the Chicken Patties meal arrives, which is flavourful and accompanied by lemon tea. Mid-flight and peckish, I indulge in a favourite, the Nacho Chips & Cheese Dip, with a Coke. At $12, it's worth it.

ENTERTAINMENT: There's nothing to see here, as the airline abandoned screen entertainment years ago. It's a case of BYO, and I've downloaded a TV series on my laptop. There's 30MB of Wi-Fi included in Plus, which allows an hour of sending emails.

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THE SERVICE: On previous flights I noted Scoot crews - known as "Scooties" - spent more time in the galley than serving passengers. It's a big change on this trip, as the crew are personable, attentive and when I ring for assistance, are at my seat within minutes.

IN A NUTSHELL: While this premium service is no frills, the spacious seat, expansive legroom and extra baggage allowance makes it a winner, but a full clean is in order. Save some dollars by trying for a Plus upgrade at check-in for about $200, or even less once on board.

Flight: Sydney to Singapore on Scoot flight TR3