Traveling on a budget is easier than ever with the rise of budget airlines USA offering affordable and convenient flight options. New destinations or planning a quick getaway, these low-cost carriers provide a perfect balance between price and service. With competitive fares, flexible booking options, and extensive domestic and international networks, budget airlines USA allow travelers to experience more while spending less. Know the best budget-friendly airlines, money-saving tips, and key considerations to help travelers make the most of their journey.
Top Budget Airlines USA: Affordable Flying Options for Smart Travelers
Airfare can be one of the biggest expenses when planning a trip, but choosing the right budget airline can help you save significantly without sacrificing too much on comfort and reliability. USA has a wide range of discount airlines that cater to different types of travelers, from those looking for no-frills, ultra-cheap fares to those who prefer a balance between affordability and amenities.
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If searching for the best budget airlines in the USA, here are some of the top low-cost carriers that offer affordable flights while maintaining good service and extensive route networks.
1. Southwest Airlines – Best for No-Baggage Fees and Hassle-Free Travel
Southwest Airlines is one of the most popular budget airlines in the USA, known for its customer-friendly policies and no hidden fees. Unlike most other low-cost airlines, Southwest allows two free checked bags, making it a great option for travelers who don’t want to pay extra for luggage.
Why Choose Southwest?
- No Baggage Fees – The only major airline in the U.S. that allows two free checked bags.
- Flexible Ticket Policies – No change fees if you need to reschedule your flight.
- Extensive Domestic Network – Offers flights to over 100 destinations across the U.S., including popular vacation spots.
- Free In-Flight Entertainment – Passengers get free movies, TV shows, and live TV on personal devices.
- Open Seating Policy – No assigned seats; passengers board in groups and choose their seats upon entering the plane.
While Southwest doesn’t always have the cheapest base fares, its lack of baggage fees and transparent pricing structure make it one of the best value airlines in the U.S. for domestic travelers.
2. Spirit Airlines – Ultra-Low-Cost Carrier with Rock-Bottom Fares
Spirit Airlines is known for offering some of the cheapest flights in the USA, often with base fares that are significantly lower than competitors. It follows an alacarte pricing model, meaning passengers pay extra for everything beyond the seat itself, including carry-on bags, checked luggage, seat selection, and even printing a boarding pass at the airport.
Why Choose Spirit?
- Extremely Low Base Fares – Some of the lowest-priced flights in the country, especially for short-haul domestic routes.
- Frequent Flight Deals – Regular promotions and flash sales for ultra-cheap domestic and international flights.
- Big Front Seat Option – A more spacious and comfortable seat upgrade at an affordable price.
- Expanding Route Network – Serves over 90 destinations across the U.S., Latin America, and the Caribbean.
Spirit is a great choice for budget-conscious travelers who are comfortable with minimal amenities and can pack light to avoid extra fees. If you understand their fee structure and plan accordingly, it can be a very affordable way to fly within the U.S.
3. Frontier Airlines – Budget Airline with Customizable Options
Frontier Airlines is another ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) that competes with Spirit in offering some of the lowest airfare deals in the USA. Like Spirit, Frontier has very low base fares but charges for extras, including carry-on bags, seat selection, and in-flight refreshments.
Why Choose Frontier?
- Ultra-Cheap Base Fares – Frontier frequently offers deals as low as $19 one-way during special promotions.
- Customizable Experience – Passengers can choose to pay only for the services they need.
- Discount Den Membership – An annual membership program that gives access to even lower fares and deals.
- Eco-Friendly Fleet – Operates one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient aircraft fleets in the U.S.
Frontier is a great option for solo travelers and backpackers who prefer paying only for what they need, making it one of the best budget airlines in the USA for flexible and cost-conscious flyers.
4. Allegiant Air – Best for Leisure Travelers Flying to Secondary Airports
Allegiant Air is a budget airline in the U.S. that primarily serves smaller, regional airports, making it a great choice for travelers heading to leisure destinations. It offers low-cost flights to vacation hotspots like Florida, Las Vegas, and Arizona. Unlike other low-cost carriers, Allegiant does not have daily flights on most routes, so scheduling can be limited.
Why Choose Allegiant?
- Focuses on Leisure Destinations – Serves smaller airports near vacation spots to make travel easier.
- Direct Flights – Many flights bypass major hubs, reducing layovers and travel time.
- Low Base Fares – Offers competitive ticket prices for budget-conscious travelers.
- Bundled Vacation Packages – Discounts on hotels and car rentals when booking a package with Allegiant.
Allegiant is a great option for travelers looking for cheap domestic flights to popular vacation destinations, though passengers should be aware of baggage fees and limited flight schedules.
5. JetBlue Airways – Affordable Flights with Premium Comfort
JetBlue is not a traditional budget airline, but it offers some of the best USA flight deals with premium in-flight amenities. It is often considered a hybrid airline that provides a balance between low fares and great customer service.
Why Choose JetBlue?
- Spacious Seats – Offers more legroom than most other U.S. airlines.
- Free In-Flight Entertainment – Personal screens with free movies, TV shows, and live TV.
- Complimentary Snacks and Drinks – Unlike ultra-low-cost carriers, JetBlue provides free refreshments.
- No Change or Cancellation Fees – Flexible policies that allow travelers to modify their bookings.
- Affordable Premium Experience – The JetBlue Mint business-class option provides luxury at a lower price than traditional first-class tickets.
JetBlue is an excellent choice for travelers who want affordable flights without compromising on comfort and in-flight perks.
How to Find the Cheapest Flights on Budget Airlines USA
Finding cheap airline tickets in the USA requires more than just luck—it takes strategy, research, and flexibility. While budget airlines offer lower base fares compared to full-service carriers, securing the best deals on economical flights in the USA requires timing and smart planning.
Want to maximize savings while flying on low-cost carriers in the USA, here are some essential strategies to help you find the most affordable airfare.
1. Book Early – Best Deals Are Available Months in Advance
One of the most effective ways to get cheap flights on budget airlines is to book as early as possible. Airlines typically release tickets several months in advance, and the lowest fares are often available before demand increases.
- Why It Works: Budget airlines use dynamic pricing, meaning fares increase as more seats are sold. Early bookings give you access to the lowest price brackets.
- How Early Should You Book? Ideally, book domestic flights at least 1 to 3 months in advance and international flights 3 to 6 months ahead for the best rates.
- Exceptions: Some ultra-low-cost carriers, like Spirit and Frontier, offer last-minute flash sales, but these are unpredictable and often have restrictive travel dates.
Pro Tip: If you see a good deal early on, book it immediately. Many budget airlines do not allow free cancellations or changes, so make sure your travel plans are firm.
2. Use Fare Comparison Tools – Find the Cheapest Options Across Airlines
Gone are the days of checking airline websites one by one. Fare comparison tools help you find the cheapest flight options in the USA across multiple airlines instantly.
Best Websites to Compare Flight Prices:
- Google Flights – Easy-to-use interface with price tracking options.
- Skyscanner – Great for flexible date searches and finding the cheapest month to fly.
- Kayak & Momondo – Show a mix of budget airlines and hidden deals.
- Hopper – Uses AI predictions to tell you when to book for the lowest price.
Pro Tip: Some budget airlines do not show up on major travel websites (e.g., Southwest Airlines is not listed on Google Flights). Always check airline websites directly for hidden deals.
3. Be Flexible with Dates – Fly Midweek or During Off-Peak Seasons
One of the biggest factors influencing flight prices is when you choose to travel. Budget airlines adjust prices based on demand, so flying on certain days can significantly reduce your airfare.
- Best Days to Fly: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays tend to be the cheapest days to book flights. Avoid Fridays and Sundays, which are peak travel days.
- Best Months for Cheap Flights: January, February, September, and October usually have lower fares since they fall outside holiday and summer peak travel times.
- Avoid High-Demand Travel Periods: Flights are most expensive during Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, and summer vacation (June–August).
Pro Tip: Use fare comparison tools to check “cheapest month to fly” and adjust your travel dates accordingly for maximum savings.
4. Sign Up for Alerts – Get Notified About Flash Sales and Deals
Budget airlines frequently launch limited-time promotions where flights can be significantly cheaper than normal. These sales are often short-lived and require fast action.
Best Ways to Get Flight Deal Alerts:
- Sign up for airline newsletters – Southwest, Frontier, Spirit, and JetBlue send exclusive fare deals via email.
- Set price alerts on Google Flights or Skyscanner – Get notified when prices drop for your selected route.
- Follow travel deal websites – Websites like Scott’s Cheap Flights, Secret Flying, and The Flight Deal track mistake fares and flash sales.
Pro Tip: Act fast when you see a great deal! Budget airline sales often last only a few hours to a day, and seats sell out quickly.
5. Consider Nearby Airports – Sometimes Flying From a Different City Saves Big
Most major cities in the U.S. have multiple airports, and flying from a smaller or alternative airport can often be much cheaper. Many low-cost carriers operate out of these secondary airports because landing fees are lower, which translates to cheaper flights for passengers.
Example: Budget-Friendly Airports in the U.S.
- Los Angeles (LAX) vs. Burbank (BUR), Long Beach (LGB), or Ontario (ONT)
- New York (JFK/LGA) vs. Newark (EWR) or Stewart (SWF)
- Washington D.C. (DCA) vs. Baltimore (BWI)
- Chicago (ORD) vs. Midway (MDW)
- Miami (MIA) vs. Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
Flying from an alternate airport might require a longer drive or additional transportation costs, but the savings on airfare can far outweigh the inconvenience.
Pro Tip: Search for flights from “all nearby airports” when using Google Flights or Skyscanner to ensure you’re seeing the lowest fares.
Best Budget Airlines USA for Domestic and International Travel
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing quality, especially when flying with the best low-cost airlines in the USA. Some budget carriers focus primarily on domestic routes, offering affordable flights within the country, while others extend their services to international destinations, providing cheaper transatlantic and Latin American travel options.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the top budget airlines in the USA for both domestic and international travel.
Best Budget Airlines for Domestic Travel in the USA
For travelers looking for affordable flights within the United States, these low-cost carriers provide some of the cheapest airfare options.
1. Southwest Airlines – Best for Free Checked Bags & Extensive Domestic Network
Southwest Airlines is one of the most popular budget airlines in the USA, known for no baggage fees and an extensive domestic flight network.
Pros:
- No fees for two checked bags, making it great for travelers carrying luggage.
- Flexible cancellation policy, allowing free flight changes or cancellations with credit for future travel.
- Large network covering 100+ U.S. cities, including major hubs and smaller airports.
Cons:
- No assigned seating—Southwest uses an open-seating policy, so early check-in is needed for better seats.
- Does not appear on Google Flights or other comparison sites; you must book directly through the Southwest website.
2. Allegiant Air – Best for Nonstop Flights to Secondary Airports
Allegiant Air specializes in low-cost, point-to-point flights to smaller, less congested airports, often avoiding major hubs.
Pros:
- Nonstop flights to leisure destinations, reducing layovers and travel time.
- Flights from regional airports, making travel more convenient for smaller cities.
- Regularly offers deeply discounted airfare deals on its website.
Cons:
- Limited flight schedules—many routes operate only a few days per week.
- No free carry-on bag—only one small personal item is included in the base fare.
3. Spirit Airlines – Best Ultra-Low-Cost Carrier with Rock-Bottom Fares
Spirit Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines in the USA, offering ultra-low base fares with an à la carte pricing model for baggage, seat selection, and other extras.
Pros:
- Some of the lowest domestic airfares available, often under $50 for one-way flights.
- Frequent flash sales and discount promotions.
- Covers 60+ U.S. cities, including both major hubs and smaller markets.
Cons:
- Charges extra for everything—carry-ons, seat selection, boarding passes printed at the airport, and snacks.
- Legroom is limited; seat pitch is only 28 inches, making it less comfortable for long flights.
4. Frontier Airlines – Best for Customizable Budget Travel
Frontier Airlines operates on a low-cost model, allowing travelers to customize their experience by only paying for the services they need.
Pros:
- Offers frequent promo codes and fare sales with ultra-cheap base ticket prices.
- Expansive domestic network with flights to 100+ U.S. cities.
- Has a “GoWild! All-You-Can-Fly Pass” that allows unlimited travel for a set period.
Cons:
- Charges for carry-on bags and seat selection.
- Limited customer service—many support issues must be handled online.
Best for Domestic Travel:
- Best Overall: Southwest Airlines
- Cheapest Fares: Spirit Airlines
- Best for Small Airports: Allegiant Air
- Most Customizable Options: Frontier Airlines
Best Budget Airlines for International Travel
For travelers looking for cheap flights from the USA to international destinations, these budget airlines provide some of the best international deals.
1. JetBlue Airways – Best for Comfort & Amenities on International Routes
While not strictly a budget airline, JetBlue offers low-cost fares with full-service perks, making it one of the best affordable airlines for international travel.
Pros:
Free Wi-Fi, snacks, and extra legroom make it more comfortable than other low-cost carriers.
Serves international destinations, including Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central/South America.
JetBlue Mint (Business Class) offers an affordable luxury experience for long-haul routes.
Cons:
- Base fares are slightly higher than ultra-low-cost airlines like Spirit or Frontier.
- Baggage fees apply to most economy fares.
2. Spirit Airlines – Best for Cheap Flights to Latin America & the Caribbean
Spirit extends its low-cost model to select international routes, making it one of the most affordable options for flying to Mexico, the Caribbean, and South America.
Pros:
- Offers some of the cheapest fares to Mexico and the Caribbean.
- Frequently runs discounted international flight deals.
- Expanding international presence with new routes.
Cons:
- No free in-flight entertainment, meals, or Wi-Fi.
- Additional fees for carry-on bags, checked baggage, and seat selection.
3. Frontier Airlines – Expanding International Routes at Low Costs
Frontier recently expanded its international offerings, providing low-cost flights to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America.
Pros:
- Competitive fares on international routes.
- Customizable add-ons for baggage and seating.
- Frequent flyer program with basic perks.
Cons:
- Limited in-flight services—no free entertainment or meals.
- Few international destinations compared to major airlines.
Best for International Travel:
- Best for Comfort & Amenities: JetBlue Airways
- Cheapest Flights to the Caribbean & Mexico: Spirit Airlines
- Most Customizable Budget Travel: Frontier Airlines
Best Budget Airlines for Transatlantic Flights (USA to Europe)
For travelers looking for cheap flights to Europe, these budget airlines specialize in low-cost transatlantic travel.
1. Norse Atlantic Airways – Best for Cheap Nonstop Flights to Europe
Norse Atlantic Airways is a newer low-cost airline offering discounted flights from the USA to Europe, focusing on routes to London, Paris, and Oslo.
Pros:
- Ultra-low fares for one-way tickets.
- Operates modern Boeing 787 Dreamliners, providing a comfortable flying experience.
- Premium Economy seats available at a fraction of the cost of traditional airlines.
Cons:
- No free meals or drinks on economy tickets.
- Charges for baggage and seat selection.
2. PLAY Airlines – Best for Budget Stopover Flights to Europe
PLAY Airlines, an Icelandic low-cost carrier, offers cheap transatlantic flights with a stopover in Reykjavik.
Pros:
- Very low fares on flights to Europe from major U.S. cities.
- Option for an Iceland stopover before heading to other European destinations.
- Expanding U.S. route network.
Cons:
- No free checked baggage; everything is à la carte.
- Layovers in Iceland can add extra travel time.
Best for Transatlantic Travel:
- Best Nonstop Flights to Europe: Norse Atlantic Airways
- Best for Iceland Stopovers & Budget Connections: PLAY Airlines
Tips to Save Money When Booking Budget Airlines USA
While budget airlines in the USA offer cheap base fares, the total cost of your trip can increase quickly due to extra fees for baggage, seat selection, and onboard amenities. With smart planning and strategic booking, you can maximize savings and ensure a truly budget-friendly travel experience.
Here are some detailed tips to help you save money when booking with low-cost airlines in the USA.
1. Travel Light – Avoid Extra Fees for Carry-On and Checked Luggage
One of the biggest hidden costs when flying with budget airlines is baggage fees. Most low-cost carriers charge for both carry-on bags and checked luggage, meaning your ticket price can significantly increase if you’re not careful.
How to Save:
- Pack only a personal item (small backpack or handbag) that fits under the seat, as most budget airlines allow this for free.
- Wear bulky clothing items, like jackets and sneakers, to save space in your bag.
- Use packing cubes to fit more into a small bag without exceeding airline limits.
- Check airline policies before booking, as some airlines (like Southwest) allow two free checked bags, while others (like Spirit and Frontier) charge for all baggage.
- If you must check a bag, pay for it in advance online rather than at the airport, as last-minute baggage fees are often higher.
💡 Example: Spirit Airlines charges $79+ for a carry-on bag at the airport, but only $39-$49 if added online during booking.
2. Skip Seat Selection – Accept a Free Random Seat Assignment
Many budget airlines charge extra for choosing your seat, even in standard economy class. Prices for seat selection can range from $10 to $50 per flight, and for round-trip tickets, these fees can quickly add up.
How to Save:
- If traveling alone or without children, skip seat selection and take the random free seat assigned at check-in.
- If traveling with family or friends, check-in exactly 24 hours before departure—airlines may still seat your group together.
- If you really want extra legroom or a window seat, consider upgrading only for long-haul flights, rather than short domestic trips.
💡 Example: Frontier Airlines charges $20-$45 per seat selection, which could add $80+ for a round-trip—but accepting an automatic seat assignment is free.
3. Bring Your Own Snacks – Avoid Overpriced In-Flight Food & Drinks
Most low-cost airlines in the USA do not provide free food or drinks, and purchasing snacks onboard can be expensive. A small bottle of water may cost $4-$6, while snacks can range from $5-$15 per item.
How to Save:
- Bring your own snacks such as protein bars, nuts, or sandwiches to avoid overpriced in-flight meals.
- Carry an empty water bottle and fill it up at a water fountain after security to avoid buying expensive bottled water.
- If your flight is long, eat a hearty meal before boarding so you’re less tempted to buy food on the plane.
💡 Example: On Allegiant Air, a snack combo (chips + drink) costs $14, but bringing your own can save you the full amount.
4. Pay for Add-Ons in Advance – Save on Baggage & Seat Fees
Most budget airlines offer lower prices for extras (baggage, seat selection, priority boarding) if booked in advance rather than at the airport.
How to Save:
- When booking your flight, check the airline’s website for prepaid baggage discounts.
- If you need Wi-Fi, priority boarding, or extra baggage, add them at the time of booking rather than later.
- Consider buying a bundle package (such as Spirit’s “Bundle It Combo” or Frontier’s “The Works”) if you plan to pay for multiple extras—it may offer a discount compared to paying separately.
💡 Example: A checked bag on Frontier costs $45 when paid in advance, but $79+ at the airport.
5. Use Airline Credit Cards – Earn Discounts & Free Perks
Many budget airlines in the USA offer co-branded credit cards that provide benefits such as free checked bags, priority boarding, and discount airfare deals.
How to Save:
- Look for airline-branded credit cards that offer perks like free checked baggage or discount airfare vouchers.
- Earn frequent flyer miles or cashback on travel purchases, which can be redeemed for future flights.
- Some airline credit cards offer free companion passes, allowing a second passenger to fly for free (excluding taxes/fees).
- If you fly regularly with a budget airline, consider a low-annual-fee airline credit card that provides perks like early boarding or seat upgrades.
💡 Example: The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Credit Card allows free checked bags and offers companion pass eligibility after earning enough points.
6. Book Flights at the Right Time – Avoid Last-Minute Price Hikes
Budget airline fares fluctuate frequently, and booking at the right time can make a huge difference in cost.
How to Save:
- Book tickets 1-3 months in advance for domestic flights and 3-6 months in advance for international flights to secure the best deals.
- Use Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Hopper to track price trends and set fare alerts.
- Avoid flying on peak travel days (Fridays, Sundays, and holidays)—Tuesdays and Wednesdays usually offer cheaper fares.
- Consider alternate airports—for example, flying out of Burbank instead of LAX or Fort Lauderdale instead of Miami can save money.
💡 Example: A round-trip flight from New York to Miami on Frontier can cost $59 on a Tuesday, but $150+ on a Friday or Sunday.
7. Consider Membership Programs for Extra Discounts
Some budget airlines offer exclusive memberships that provide lower fares and waived fees for frequent travelers.
How to Save:
- Check if your preferred airline offers a discount membership (such as Frontier’s “Discount Den” or Spirit’s “$9 Fare Club”)—these programs can save $10-$50 per ticket.
- These memberships pay for themselves after just 2-3 flights per year.
- If you frequently travel with family or friends, these programs often extend discounts to companions on the same booking.
💡 Example: Spirit’s $9 Fare Club costs $69.95 per year, but members often save $30+ per ticket, making it worth it after just 2 round-trip flights.
Comparing Budget Airlines USA: Which One Offers the Best Deals?
Each airline offers unique advantages. Here’s a comparison:
| Airline | Best For | Main Drawback |
|---|---|---|
| Southwest | Free baggage, no change fees | Limited international destinations |
| Spirit | Ultra-low fares | High add-on fees |
| Frontier | Low fares, large domestic network | Strict baggage policies |
| Allegiant | Small airport convenience | Limited destinations |
| JetBlue | Great service, free Wi-Fi | Slightly higher fares |
Hidden Fees to Watch Out for When Flying Budget Airlines USA
Budget airlines in the USA attract travelers with low base fares, but many of these cheap tickets come with hidden costs that can significantly increase the final price of your trip. From baggage fees to seat selection and even printing your boarding pass, budget airlines often charge for services that full-service carriers include for free.
To ensure you get the best value from your ticket, it’s essential to understand these extra fees and how to avoid or minimize them. Below, we’ll break down the most common hidden charges when flying with low-cost airlines in the USA and provide tips to help you save money.
1. Baggage Fees – Carry-On and Checked Luggage Costs Can Add Up
Many budget airlines do not include a free carry-on bag with their cheapest tickets. Instead, passengers may have to pay extra for both carry-on and checked luggage, making a seemingly cheap flight much more expensive.
How Baggage Fees Work:
- Personal Item (Free): Most budget airlines allow one free personal item, such as a small backpack or purse that fits under the seat.
- Carry-On Bag (Extra Fee): Many airlines charge for a standard carry-on suitcase that fits in the overhead bin.
- Checked Bag (Extra Fee): Fees vary based on size and weight, with higher charges for overweight bags.
- Airport vs. Online Pricing: Baggage fees are cheaper when paid online but are more expensive at the airport.
How to Avoid High Baggage Fees:
- Pack light and bring only a personal item to avoid extra costs.
- Pay for baggage in advance rather than at the airport.
- Use a budget airline credit card that offers free checked bags.
- Weigh your bag before heading to the airport to avoid overweight fees.
💡 Example:
- Spirit Airlines: A carry-on bag costs $49+ if paid online but $79+ at the airport.
- Frontier Airlines: A checked bag costs $45 when purchased early but $79+ if added at the airport.
2. Seat Selection Fees – Paying Extra for Your Preferred Seat
Many budget airlines charge extra for selecting a seat in advance, even for standard economy seats. This means that if you want to sit next to family or friends, you may have to pay an additional fee.
How Seat Selection Fees Work:
- If you don’t pay, the airline assigns you a random seat at check-in (which is free).
- If you want an aisle, window, or extra legroom, you must pay a fee ranging from $10 to $50+ per flight.
- Airlines sometimes separate groups on purpose to encourage passengers to pay for seat selection.
How to Avoid Seat Selection Fees:
- Skip seat selection and accept the free randomly assigned seat at check-in.
- If traveling with a group, check in exactly 24 hours before departure—you might still get seats together.
- If booking multiple flights, only pay for seat selection on longer trips rather than short-haul flights.
💡 Example:
- Frontier Airlines: Seat selection costs $20-$50 per flight, adding up to $80+ for a round-trip ticket.
- Spirit Airlines: Extra legroom seats cost $50+ per flight, increasing total costs.
3. Boarding Pass Fees – Charges for Printing at the Airport
Some ultra-low-cost airlines charge passengers for printing their boarding pass at the airport instead of using mobile or self-print options. While this may seem like a small fee, it can be an unexpected expense for unprepared travelers.
How Boarding Pass Fees Work:
- If you print your boarding pass at home or use a mobile boarding pass, it’s free.
- If you ask an airline agent to print your boarding pass, you may be charged $5 to $25 per person.
- Some airlines also charge a check-in fee if you don’t complete online check-in before arriving at the airport.
How to Avoid Boarding Pass Fees:
- Check in online and download a mobile boarding pass.
- Print your boarding pass at home or at your hotel before heading to the airport.
- If you don’t have a printer, use an airport kiosk to print your pass for free (if available).
💡 Example:
- Ryanair (Europe): Charges $25 per person for printing a boarding pass at the airport.
- Allegiant Air: Charges $5 per boarding pass printed at the counter.
4. Change & Cancellation Fees – Expensive Charges for Itinerary Changes
Full-service airlines, most low-cost carriers have strict policies regarding flight changes and cancellations. If you need to change your flight date, time, or destination, expect to pay a high fee in addition to any fare difference.
How Change & Cancellation Fees Work:
- Budget airlines rarely offer free changes, except for premium tickets.
- Change fees range from $50 to $200+, depending on the airline and how close to departure you make the change.
- Southwest Airlines is an exception, as they allow free changes and cancellations on all fares.
How to Avoid High Change & Cancellation Fees:
- Choose an airline like Southwest, which offers free flight changes.
- If flexibility is important, consider buying a refundable fare (though this may cost more upfront).
- Purchase travel insurance if you think you might need to cancel or reschedule.
- If you must change your flight, do it as early as possible to avoid last-minute penalties.
💡 Example:
- Spirit Airlines: Charges $119+ for changes made 0-6 days before departure.
- Frontier Airlines: Charges $99 for changes within 7 days of departure.
5. Priority Boarding Fees – Paying Extra to Board Early
Many budget airlines charge passengers for priority boarding, allowing them to board before general passengers. While not a necessary expense, some travelers pay for priority boarding to ensure overhead bin space for their carry-on bags.
How Priority Boarding Fees Work:
- If you don’t pay, you board in the last group, and overhead bin space may be limited.
- Priority boarding can cost $10-$40 per flight.
How to Avoid Priority Boarding Fees:
- Check in as early as possible (some airlines assign boarding groups based on check-in time).
- Pack a small personal item instead of a full-sized carry-on.
- Use an airline-branded credit card that includes free priority boarding.
💡 Example:
- Spirit Airlines: Priority boarding costs $7-$20 per flight.
- Frontier Airlines: Offers priority boarding for $12-$40 per flight.
Travel Visa: Types, Rules & Secrets to Avoid Rejection!
Flying with budget airlines USA can be an excellent way to visit new destinations affordably. By choosing the right cheapest airlines USA, booking strategically, and avoiding hidden fees, you can make the most of affordable flight options USA without sacrificing comfort. Happy travels!
FAQs
1. What is the cheapest budget airline for domestic travel in the USA?
Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines are often the cheapest options for domestic travel.
2. Which budget airline offers the best international deals from the USA?
JetBlue, Spirit, and Frontier provide affordable international flights to the Caribbean, Mexico, and South America.
3. How do ultra-low-cost carriers (ULCCs) differ from regular budget airlines?
ULCCs like Spirit and Frontier offer extremely low base fares but charge for everything else, including baggage and seat selection.
4. Do budget airlines have loyalty programs?
Yes, airlines like Southwest, JetBlue, and Spirit offer loyalty programs where you can earn points for future flights.
5. Is it better to book directly with budget airlines or use third-party websites?
It’s generally better to book directly with the airline to avoid potential issues with cancellations or changes.
6. Can I bring a carry-on bag for free on budget airlines?
Most budget airlines charge for carry-ons, but Southwest and JetBlue allow one free carry-on.
7. Do budget airlines offer in-flight entertainment?
Most budget airlines do not offer in-flight entertainment, except for JetBlue, which provides free movies and Wi-Fi.
8. How can I get last-minute deals on budget airlines?
Sign up for airline newsletters, set price alerts, and check flash sales for last-minute discounts.
9. Are budget airlines good for long-haul international flights?
Budget airlines are best for short-haul or regional flights, but some like Norse Atlantic offer low-cost transatlantic options.
10. Do budget airlines in the USA have business or first-class options?
Most budget airlines do not offer business class, but JetBlue Mint and Spirit’s Big Front Seat provide premium options.
11. Can I use a travel credit card to save money on budget airline tickets?
Yes, some travel credit cards offer points or cashback on airline purchases, helping reduce flight costs.
12. What is the best budget airline for family travel in the USA?
Southwest Airlines is a great option since it allows free checked baggage and has family-friendly policies.
13. Do budget airlines offer meal services on flights?
Most budget airlines charge for meals and snacks, so it’s best to bring your own food.
