With a country as large and expansive as America, the cheapest and quickest way to get around is by air. Sadly, plane tickets are one of the biggest expenses of most trips.
However, America has some great budget airlines to choose from. These are airlines that offer low price fares without having to sacrifice too many comforts.
This guide will help you discover the best budget airlines in America as well as where they fly and what they offer their passengers.
Before we get to the budget airlines, let us quickly cover some general tips on finding cost-friendly flights. This is sound advice when looking for any plane ticket.
One smart move is to always plan ahead. For people who have set dates, I suggest a setting a little time aside each week to compare airfare. The cost fluctuates dramatically so there is a good chance of finding a lower fare just by searching consistently.
Also, make sure to clear your web browser of cookies once a week. Often a person will be quoted the same price as before even if the fare has dropped. This is because airlines use cookies to remember the last price they have given.
This is a low-cost airline that mostly flies across the USA. Allegiant’s prices are extremely low. I have seen roundtrip tickets for under $200. However, it is important to note that Allegiant only flies limited routes. Another drawback is the cost for checked baggage. It can vary from $15- $75 depending on the route and when you purchase it. Passengers are allowed one carry-on item free.
Where They Fly – Allegiant flies around the mainland of the USA. They also fly to Puerto Rico and Hawaii out of select airports.
Frontier Airlines has a lot more variety to choose from than Allegiant. One great option is their lowest fare page, which highlights the cheapest tickets. This is a great option for people looking for a new destination.
Where They Fly - Frontier flies around the USA as well as a few places in Mexico and the Dominican Republic.
JetBlue is one of the major budget airlines in America. One of the perks is that they offer more comfort than most of the other budget airlines.
Along with a free checked bag, passengers enjoy inflight entertainment and snacks. These are comforts that few budget airlines provide to customers and gives JetBlue a leg up as a budget airline.
Where They Fly - JetBlue flies between most major cities in the United States. They also fly to the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America and South America.
Southwest is one of the most popular budget airlines in the USA. It is an excellent choice for a few reasons. First, they offer more routes than most of the other airlines on this list. They have become famous for their low fares and free baggage.
Where They Fly - Major cities throughout the United States; Nassau, Bahamas; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Punta Cana, Dominican Republic; Montego Bay, Jamaica; Mexico City, Cancun, and Los Cabos, Mexico.
WestJet offers budget prices without sacrificing great service. In fact, they have won several awards for customer service.
WestJet is also committed to building more eco-friendly jets. The company also supports many community projects around North America.
Unlike many other budget airlines in America, WestJet also flies to Canada.
Where They Fly - United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean
Our last budget airline is Virgin America. Virgin offers a relaxing flight. The planes are in excellent condition. However, they have a few disadvantages. First, there is an extra fee for everything. This includes having to purchase entrainment on long haul flights. Unlike most airlines, there is a fee per movie. You also have to pay for food and baggage. In my opinion, Virgin America is a great option if you are not flying too far. Just make sure to bring snacks and movies.
Where They Fly – Most major cities in America as well as a couple destinations in Mexico
Plane tickets can be one of the biggest expenses when traveling. However, with a few tips, tricks, and preparation, you can find cheap flights on budget airlines throughout the USA. This guide to budget airlines gives you some great options for finding cheap flights across America.
Note: Available plans and coverages may have changed since this blog was published.
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Stephen Schreck is a world traveler, nomad, and adventure backpacker. Knowing a life of aimlessly wandering the globe in search of adventures was the only life for him he set out to make his dream his reality. Currently he is trying to conquer his fears and tackle his bucket list. Follow Stephen's adventures at A Backpacker's Tale or on social media on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram.
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