Sure, it's a really cheap flight ticket to Europe, but there's a catch

I'm on the inaugural Scoot flight from Singapore to Vienna, after an eight-hour flight from Sydney and a long layover at Changi Airport. This new route offers Australian travellers a budget option to Central Europe, but there's some essentials to consider. First, if you opt for a transit hotel for the long layover - Scoot does not have a lounge - that adds to the cost. And being a low-cost carrier, it's essential to remember the fare gets you a seat and 10kg of carry-on baggage, but everything else you pay for.

CHECK IN: In Sydney, the economy check-in line moves fast and within minutes, my bag is checked through to Vienna - it's $90 for 20kg - and I have boarding passes for the two flights ahead. After the eight-hour trip from Sydney, I've booked a transit hotel for a kip during the eight-hour layover. Finally, it's a bleary 2am arrival for the security check at the gate before the 3am departure. Being in the Scoot-in-Silence section, priority boarding is included.

THE FLIGHT: Some passengers sensibly board in their pyjamas, and at 3.15am, flight TR710 on a 787-9 Dreamliner takes off. Most people appear to quickly settle and fall asleep, as I do too, so it's a quiet 12-hour journey. We land in Vienna on schedule at 9.05am.

THE CLASS: I'm in the back row of Scoot-in-Silence, the economy section where children under 12 aren't permitted, but it's an extra $163. Economy is a 3-3-3 configuration, and the comfy seat is 18cm wide with a pitch of 84cm - 5cm more than standard - with an adjustable headrest. There's plenty of overhead bin space for the generous 10kg cabin baggage allowance and a Snooze Kit with blanket, eye mask and pillow adds some comfort, for $24.

FOOD & DRINKS: The Scoot menu can be hit or miss, so I have opted for the safe choice of a Snack Pack bag for $19, containing Pringles, cookies and cashew nuts, to tide me over. Three hours before landing, the Stewed Beef Brisket Hor Fun with rice noodles dish is served, which makes for a super tasty but unusual breakfast choice for $24. Each meal includes one water or soft drink, while beer, wine and spirits start from $11.

ENTERTAINMENT: Scoot removed screen entertainment years ago, instead offering an app with flight map, games and destination info. Prior to boarding, I downloaded a TV series on my iPhone, and I notice many other passengers have, too. In-seat power is $17 and Wi-Fi starts from $4, but it is patchy throughout.