I think the optimisum by some is misinformed, but wish you well none the less. The wool is being pulled over (y)our eyes though when the charter airlines are saying that in order to remain competetive they must match the lower cost base of the LCC.
Consider this. The majority of flights that the charter carriers are flying to are: Greece, Cyprus, Turkey, Egypt and the Canaries. Besides EZY's Athens flights they are not in any way in competition with them. The LCC model doesn't work for such long sector lengths. So, just know that you're being hoodwinked when you go to an airline that offers you inferior conditions on based on the above premis.
It is a difficult conundrum, but be real - it is naive to think things will improve much. Get into the carriers that still have their old terms and conditions while you can!