Are you looking for the cheapest places to fly right now? There’s no time like the present to get out and explore the world. But if you’re a budget-savvy traveler, you may wonder when’s the best time to fly and what are the cheapest places to fly to. Don’t worry; this guide on the cheapest places to fly right now has got you covered.
Whether you’re a solo traveler or want to bring your entire family on a great escape, there is so much that goes into a single trip. From securing and packing tickets to getting to the airport and hotel, there is so much that goes into each vacation–not to mention the process of choosing the destination. When you add budgetary restrictions, things can get even more hectic. But don’t despair!
Whether you’re looking for the cheapest places to fly to or want to find out how to get a killer deal on your dream destination, I can help you find great deals on flights. It’s easier than you might think – you just need to know where to look. That’s where this guide comes in. I’ve rounded up some of the cheapest places to fly to in Europe, North America, and beyond to give you a budget-friendly trip to remember.
So, pack your bags and get ready to check out some of the cheapest places to fly to right now!
My #1 tip for finding cheap flights right now
Looking for cheap airline tickets for an upcoming trip? Before we get into specific locations, I want to share my biggest tip for finding cheap airfare.
For the past three years, I have been using a website called Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) to find amazing flight deals. It’s FREE, it’s easy for anyone to do, and it takes almost no effort. All you have to do is enter your home airport and where you want to go. You’ll receive notifications whenever they find mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals.
The best part? Going is totally free to use. They do have paid options, as well, which are great deals if you are a frequent flyer like me. Thanks to their email alerts, I’ve saved thousands of dollars on flights, including a recent trip from Boston to Paris for only a $246 roundtrip fare. On average, I save over $350 roundtrip on transatlantic flights and $200 on domestic ones. I highly recommend Going!
Other considerations when finding cheap places to fly right now
There are many variables that go into finding the cheapest flights, including which airports you’re departing from. To make it easier, I limited my search to only look at flights departing from major airports in the US. While smaller airports can have decent flight options, you are more likely to find the best deals from larger airports with many flights and airlines. Besides, more often than not, you’ll be connecting at a larger US airport (ex., Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, LA, or NYC) before heading to your final destination.
It’s also important to note that another major variable in determining the cheapest places to fly to is that prices can vary immensely between different US cities. For example, flights to Hawaii are generally cheaper when departing from the west coast than the east coast; however, while these factors can change the cost of roundtrip airfare, generally, the cheapest destinations to fly to remain the same.
Whether you’re looking to fly coat-to-coast on a domestic flight or are looking for the cheapest places to fly internationally, this list has you covered. Once you know the cheapest places to fly to right now, you can find the cheapest airports and flight deals for a truly affordable vacation, honeymoon, or weekend getaway.
Now without further ado, here are the 8 cheapest places to fly right now.
Cheapest places to fly right now: Cities and destinations with cheap flight deals
Below are the cheapest roundtrip flights you can book right now. Looking to do more traveling in 2023? Add these 8 destinations to your bucket list right now!
1. Las Vegas, Nevada
What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas – except for when it comes to cheap flights. If you’ve always wanted to try your luck in Sin City, consider yourself a winner. Vegas is one of the cheapest places to fly to right now!
Known as the Entertainment Capital of the World, Vegas is home to some of the world’s most extravagant hotels and casinos. It’s a top destination for people who enjoy nightlife, entertainment, and gambling. For all of the above, the Las Vegas Strip is a must. This famous stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard is home to many famous hotels and casinos, including Bellagio, Caesars Palace, and Flamingo Las Vegas.
In addition to Vegas’s famed casinos, you can also catch a show. Vegas is known for its incredible entertainment, with world-famous performers like Cirque du Soleil, Adele, and Garth Brooks. You can also enjoy comedy shows, magic shows, and variety shows throughout the strip.
In addition to its busy nightlife, Las Vegas is also home to the Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), formerly McCarran International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world. With so many airlines flying in and out of Vegas, it’s easy to find a deal. Harry Reid serves as a base for several budget airlines, including Allegiant Air, Southwest Airlines, and Spirit Airlines, so you can catch a cheap flight out of Nevada even if you didn’t win big.
2. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, vibrant culture, and unique cuisine. While its beauty and culture make it a popular destination for travelers, it’s also one of the cheapest places to fly internationally.
Keflavík International Airport is the main airport serving Reykjavik and is located just outside the city. It is a hub for many budget airlines, which makes finding cheap flights to Reykjavik a breeze. Once you arrive, there is so much you can add to your Iceland itinerary. I recommend taking the time to explore the city center, a charming area filled with colorful buildings, shops, and restaurants. You can even join a guided tour to learn more about the city’s history and culture.
If you’ve ever wanted to take a whale-watching tour, you’re in luck! Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see whales in their natural habitat. Reykjavik has several whale-watching tours, where you can see humpback whales, minke whales, and other species. If you need to warm up after, visit one of Reykjavik’s many geothermal pools, where you can relax in warm, mineral-rich waters. The most famous of these is the Blue Lagoon, about 45 minutes from the city center.
For a unique experience, take a Northern Lights Tour. Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, a natural phenomenon that creates colorful lights in the night sky. There are many tours available in Reykjavik that will take you to the best viewing spots.
3. Miami, Florida
Miami, Florida, is one of the most popular destinations for tourists from all over the world. It’s well known for its trendy nightlife, beautiful beaches, art galleries, and world-class hotels and resorts. It’s easy to splurge when you plan a vacation in Miami, especially if you spring for a luxurious mansion. But did you know that Miami is one of the cheapest places to fly in the US?
The Miami International Airport (MIA) is Miami’s primary airport. It’s one of the busiest airports worldwide, with over 1,000 daily flights to 167 domestic and international destinations. This also means MIA is among the cheapest airports in Florida because you can always find a great deal.
When you save money on your airfare, you’ll be able to put those leftover funds to good use. Experience Miami’s vibrant nightlife in South Beach, Wynwood, and Brickell. For shopping, check out the luxurious Bal Harbour Shops and the upscale Design District.
For a day at the beach, visit South Beach, one of the most famous beaches in Miami. It’s known for its white sand, turquoise water, and Art Deco architecture. For a cultural experience, visit Little Havana, a neighborhood known for its Cuban culture, food, and music. You can explore the colorful streets, listen to live music, and sample authentic Cuban cuisine.
To experience wildlife and nature, go on an Everglades Airboat Tour. The Everglades is a unique ecosystem located just outside of Miami. You can take an airboat tour through the wetlands to see alligators, birds, and other wildlife.
4. Costa Rica
When it comes to tropical getaways abroad, it doesn’t get much more affordable than Costa Rica! This small country is located in Central America. Costa Rica is bordered by Nicaragua to the north, Panama to the south, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. Known for its natural beauty, biodiversity, and outdoor adventures, Costa Rica is a popular destination for eco-tourists and nature enthusiasts.
Central America is home to some of the cheapest flights abroad, especially if you’re flying from North America. Costa Rica’s largest and cheapest airport is the Juan Santamaria Airport (SJO) in San Jose. Many major carriers fly direct from the US to Costa Rica, including American Airlines, Delta, Jetblue, Spirit, and United.
Whether you choose to stay and enjoy San Jose or explore the rest of Costa Rico, this small country packs a big punch. The Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic landmarks. You can hike the volcano, soak in hot springs, and take a zip line tour through the surrounding rainforest. For something a little more adventurous, take a guided white-water rafting tour on the Pacuare River to experience the rapids and the surrounding rainforest.
For a peaceful getaway, relax on the beaches of Guanacaste on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, known for its beautiful beaches and luxury resorts. If you’ve always wanted to try surfing, you can hit the waves in Tamarindo. Tamarindo is known for its consistent waves and laid-back vibe. It’s the perfect place to spend an affordable vacation.
5. Cancun, Mexico
For another cheap tropical destination to fly to, Cancun has to be on the list. This popular resort city is located on the Caribbean coast of Mexico and attracts millions of visitors each year. And for a good reason: it’s not often that you can find cheap tickets to paradise.
With its year-round warm weather, vibrant nightlife, clear waters, and beautiful white sand beaches, it’s no wonder that Cancun is a hot spot for spring break and year-round vacationing. The most popular beaches are Playa Delfines, Playa Tortugas, and Playa Chac Mool. Cancun’s beaches are also popular for swimming with whale sharks and taking a snorkeling or scuba diving tour.
To experience some of Cancun’s culture and history, you can explore Mayan ruins in the Yucatan Peninsula, including Chichen Itza, Tulum, and Coba. At the end of the daym you can experience Cancun’s vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. The most popular nightlife areas are in the Hotel Zone and downtown Cancun.
When flying into Cancun, Mexico, you’ll arrive at Cancun International Airport (CUN), Mexico’s second busiest airport. Because CUN is so high volume with 29 different airlines, it’s easy to find a flight deal. To save the most money on cheap flights to Cancun, be sure to book your flight in advance and avoid their peak spring break season.
6. San Francisco Bay Area, California
While San Francisco is considered one of the most expensive cities to live in the US, it’s actually one of the cheapest places to fly to. One reason is there are two busy airports within close proximity: San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Oakland International Airport (OAK). For cheap flights into the Bay Area, you’ll likely find SFO the cheapest airport to San Francisco. This large airport has 64 airlines with direct flights to San Francisco, so you can always find a deal.
Once you arrive in the Bay Area, you’ll find that San Francisco is a fantastic destination with so much to do and see. The city itself is a diverse and dynamic region located in northern California, known for its mild climate, natural beauty, and cultural richness. When you explore The Golden City, be sure to check out Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, Alcatraz Island, the Painted Ladies, and the cable cars.
For a taste of California’s famous wine, visit Napa and Sonoma Valley. You can tour vineyards and wineries, sample local wines and cuisine, and take in the scenic beauty of the rolling hills of these two famous wine regions.
If you’re hoping to spend your vacation outdoors, you’re in luck. The Bay Area has a diverse natural landscape, including beaches, mountains, forests, and parks. Hike Muir Woods, Bike in Golden Gate Park, go surfing in Santa Cruz, or kayak in the San Francisco Bay. However you spend your time, San Francisco is a must-see destination in California that can be visited on a budget.
7. Toronto, Ontario
Looking for the cheapest place to fly into Canada? There’s no better option than Toronto. Toronto is the largest city in Canada and one of the most diverse cities in the world. It’s known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, as well as its stunning architecture and natural attractions. The Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) is the largest in Canada, so you can find a deal from the many airlines servicing it.
When it comes to iconic Toronto landmarks, it’s hard to top the CN Tower, as it is one of the most recognizable structures in the world. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for stunning views of the city and Lake Ontario. Want to see something beautiful a little closer to the ground? The Art Gallery of Ontario is one of the largest art museums in North America, with collections of famous Canadian and international art.
For a bit of history and delicious food, head down to St. Lawrence Market. This historic marketplace in Toronto offers a range of local produce, specialty foods, and artisanal products. It’s a great place to sample Toronto’s diverse food scene! The Distillery District also offers a unique experience. This pedestrian-only neighborhood features Victorian-era buildings, art galleries, and shops and is a popular spot for dining, shopping, and entertainment.
There is so much to do and see in Toronto, but public transportation, taxis, and rideshare services are available to take you around the city so you don’t miss a thing!
8. Hawaiian Islands
When it comes to an island vacation, Hawaii is hard to beat, especially when it comes to domestic travel. Hawaii is one of the cheapest places to fly, thanks to its five major airports offering direct flights all over the country and Pacific Rim. Several major airlines offer nonstop flights to Hawaii, including Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. It’s easy to find discounted airfare, making it one of the cheapest places to fly right now.
If you’re looking for the cheapest island to visit, I recommend Oahu. Oahu is home to many hotels, attractions, and tours, not to mention an affordable public transportation system. If flying to Oahu, you’ll land at the Honolulu International Airport (HNL), one of the cheapest airports in Hawaii. In Oahu, you can check out the world-famous Waikiki Beach and book a snorkeling trip at Hanauma Bay.
If you’re booking a domestic flight from the US, Maui is another affordable destination, particularly the city of Kahului. Maui is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world and is home to Haleakalā National Park, Hoʻokipa Beach Park, and Kāʻanapali Beach.
No matter which Hawaiin Island you plan to visit, you’ll likely find the best deals when you book your flight 3 to 6 months in advance. Because it’s such a popular destination served by many airlines, it’s easy to find great deals, promotions, and discounts on trips to the Aloha state.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the cheapest places to fly
Here are some popular questions and answers about where to fly for a great deal right now. This also covers finding cheap flight deals in 2023.
How can I find the cheapest flights right now?
Whether you’re looking for cheap domestic or international flights, there are a few ways to find the best flight deals. My first tip for finding the best flight deals is to be flexible with your travel dates and routes. If, for example, you can fly out on a weekday instead of a weekend, you might see significant savings. When looking for the best deals, try searching for flights on different days of the week or at different times of the day to see if you can find a better deal.
Utilizing flight alert websites like Going can also save you hundreds of dollars on roundtrip airfare. Going is great because you don’t have to do a lot of searching, the deals come directly to you. Other great tools to find cheap flights include Skyscanner, the world’s largest search engine for flights, Google Flights, Hopper, and Kayak.
Which airlines offer the cheapest flights?
When looking for cheap places to fly, it’s important to look at more than just the destination. To get the best deals on flights, consider both the cheapest airlines and airports. For instance, there are several budget airlines in the US that offer cheap flights to various destinations. Some of the most well-known budget airlines in the US include Southwest, Allegiant, Frontier, and Spirit. Keep in mind that while these airlines often have lower fares than major carriers, they may not offer the same level of amenities or service.
Here are some of the major airlines with the cheapest flights:
- Alaska Airlines
- United Airlines
- American Airlines
- Delta
- Sun Country
- Ryanair
Where is the cheapest place to fly in the US right now?
The cheapest place to fly in the US right now can vary depending on a multitude of factors, including the time of year and current events. However, there are a few destinations that tend to offer affordable flights year-round.
If you’re looking for a beach getaway, consider flying to destinations like Miami, Florida or Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. These sunny spots are known for offering affordable flights, especially during the off-season.
For outdoor enthusiasts, destinations like Denver, Colorado or Salt Lake City, Utah offer affordable flights and access to a range of outdoor activities. Skiing, hiking, and mountain biking are just a few of the options available in these mountainous regions.
If you’re looking for big city adventure, consider flying to destinations like Las Vegas, Nevada or New Orleans, Louisiana. These cities offer a range of attractions, from world-class dining and nightlife to live music and cultural experiences.
Remember, finding the cheapest place to fly in the US requires a bit of research and flexibility. Keep an eye out for promotions and deals, and be open to exploring new destinations. With a bit of effort, you can find affordable flights and create unforgettable travel experiences.
Is it cheaper to fly non-stop?
When looking for the cheapest flight options, you may be wondering whether it’s cheaper to fly non-stop or to book a ticket with a connecting flight (or two). Non-stop flights are more convenient when arriving at your destination quickly. However, it doesn’t always offer the best value for your money.
You may find it cheaper to book a connecting flight with one of the aforementioned budget airlines rather than booking a non-stop flight with a major carrier. To find the best deal, compare prices for non-stop and connecting flights to see which comes out cheaper.
What is the cheapest day to fly right now?
Because there are many factors that go into determining airfare prices, there is no universal answer for the cheapest day to fly. However, there are some general trends that you can keep in mind when looking for the cheapest day to fly.
Typically, midweek flights (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) are cheaper than weekend flights (Fridays through Sundays). This is because many people prefer to fly on weekends due to work and school schedules. Airlines can charge higher prices for flights on peak days.
Additionally, flights during less popular travel seasons (such as fall and winter) are generally cheaper than peak travel seasons (such as summer and major holidays). However, remember that this can vary based on your destination and specific travel dates.
