One of those arbitrary costs of budget airlines is paying €50 for having your ticket printed at the airport (Lufthansa). Sometimes you just don't have a printer or the possibility to check in beforehand. Sure, I could 'plan ahead' and buy a cheap printer along the way to the airport and do it myself right then and there and it would be cheaper. I'd then throw away the printer or give it to someone else. How is $60 a reasonable price for airport check-in?
Many airlines still offer 'free' food in the plane, some don't and charge large amounts of money for very crappy food. Sure, I could 'plan ahead' and bring a large bag of food for me and my family, but then I have less room for other things and I get closer and closer to the weight limits that keep getting lower and lower. I can't even bring water from outside the airport past security. Some airlines offer complementary (due to higher ticket prices) drinks, but others ask for €4 for a 0.25ml drink. Planning ahead would mean I end up paying slightly less at the shops at the gate.
I understand the model that budget airlines use to make money; basic ticket prices and paying for upgrades. I am saying that I'd rather pay more for the tickets and then not be charged for everything along the way. It is much more transparent that way and I don't end up packing a picknick or chasing after hotel owners to print tickets, etc.