Air travel in the United States doesn’t always have to cost a fortune. Thanks to a variety of cheap airlines in USA, travelers can explore new cities, visit family, or take a vacation without spending too much. In this guide, you’ll learn what makes an airline budget-friendly, the top low-cost carriers in the U.S., tips to save even more, and answers to common questions travelers ask.
What Makes an Airline “Cheap”?
Cheap or low-cost airlines keep fares low by focusing on the basics. Instead of including extras like free bags or meals, they let passengers choose and pay only for what they need.
Common Features of Budget Airlines
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Lower ticket prices compared to full-service carriers.
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Use of secondary airports to cut costs.
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Extra charges for bags, food, and seat selection.
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High efficiency with quicker boarding and turnaround times.
This setup works best for travelers who want savings and don’t mind traveling light.
Benefits of Flying with Cheap Airlines
Budget airlines offer several advantages:
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Save money: The main reason people choose these carriers is low ticket prices.
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Frequent sales: Many cheap airlines run flash deals and holiday promotions.
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Regional access: Budget carriers connect smaller towns and cities to major destinations.
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Flexible travel: Ideal for students, solo travelers, and anyone looking to stretch their budget.
While seats may be smaller and extras cost more, the overall savings make these airlines attractive.
Top 10 Cheap Airlines in USA
Here are the most popular low-cost airlines you can choose from in the U.S.:
1. Spirit Airlines
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Carry-on bags cost extra—pack light to save.
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Seats are tighter than most, so upgrades may help.
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Download the Spirit app to avoid airport fees.
🔗 Book at Spirit Airlines
2. Frontier Airlines
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Discount Den membership gives big savings.
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Extra charges for carry-ons; personal item must fit under the seat.
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Often uses smaller airports—check locations.
🔗 Book at Frontier Airlines
3. Allegiant Air
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Best for vacation packages (flight + hotel).
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Limited flight schedule—flexibility helps.
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No Wi-Fi onboard, so bring entertainment.
🔗 Book at Allegiant Air
4. Southwest Airlines
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Two free checked bags included.
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Open boarding—check in 24 hours early.
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Free snacks and soft drinks.
🔗 Book at Southwest Airlines
5. JetBlue Airways
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Free Wi-Fi and more legroom than most.
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First checked bag free on some fares.
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Comfortable cabins with free snacks.
🔗 Book at JetBlue
6. Sun Country Airlines
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Great for seasonal vacation routes.
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Based in Minneapolis with wide U.S. coverage.
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Cheaper to book directly on their site.
🔗 Book at Sun Country Airlines
7. Hawaiian Airlines
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Free Hawaiian snacks and drinks onboard.
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Great loyalty program: HawaiianMiles.
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Watch baggage fees on inter-island flights.
🔗 Book at Hawaiian Airlines
8. Avelo Airlines
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Focus on small airports with low fares.
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Growing network, so check available routes.
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Priority boarding upgrades available.
🔗 Book at Avelo Airlines
9. Breeze Airways
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Three class options: Nice, Nicer, Nicest.
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No change/cancel fees—credit if canceled.
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Strong for cross-country direct flights.
🔗 Book at Breeze Airways
10. Silver Airways
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Serves Florida + Caribbean routes.
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Smaller turboprop planes—short flights only.
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Great option for regional travel.
🔗 Book at Silver Airways
Tips to Get the Best Deals
Want to save even more when booking with cheap airlines? Follow these tips:
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Book early: Prices usually rise as the departure date gets closer.
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Fly midweek: Tuesday and Wednesday flights are often the cheapest.
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Use flight comparison sites: Tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner help find the best deals.
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Join loyalty programs: Even budget airlines reward frequent flyers.
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Subscribe to airline alerts: Stay updated on flash sales and limited-time discounts.
Cheap Airlines vs Full-Service Airlines
Budget airlines and traditional carriers both have their strengths.
Price
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Cheap airlines: Lower base fares but extra charges for bags, food, or seat upgrades.
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Full-service airlines: Higher ticket prices but include baggage, meals, and entertainment.
Comfort
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Cheap airlines: Smaller seats, fewer extras.
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Full-service airlines: More legroom, inflight service, and extras built into the ticket price.
Best For…
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Cheap airlines: Travelers who prioritize cost savings.
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Full-service airlines: Families or travelers who value comfort and inclusions.
FAQs About Cheap Airlines in USA
What is the cheapest airline in the USA?
Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines usually offer the lowest fares, though deals depend on routes and dates.
Are budget airlines safe?
Yes. All U.S. airlines follow strict safety standards set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Which budget airline allows free baggage?
Southwest Airlines is the only major budget airline that includes two free checked bags in its fares.
Are cheap airlines good for long flights?
They are best for short to medium routes. For longer trips, extra costs and comfort should be considered.
How can I find the cheapest flights in the USA?
Use flight comparison tools, set fare alerts, and travel midweek for the best deals.
Do cheap airlines fly internationally?
Yes. Spirit, Frontier, and JetBlue offer budget-friendly international flights to places like Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America.
Why do budget airlines charge for extras?
It’s called “unbundled pricing.” This model keeps ticket prices low, and travelers pay only for services they use.
Which cheap airline is best for families?
Southwest Airlines is family-friendly, with free checked bags and no change fees.
Can I bring my own food on a budget airline?
Yes. Most airlines allow passengers to bring snacks and drinks through security, which saves money on board.
Do cheap airlines offer refunds?
Policies vary. Many offer credits instead of cash refunds, so adding travel insurance can give more flexibility.
Conclusion
Cheap airlines in the USA make travel more accessible for everyone. Whether you’re flying Spirit for ultra-low fares, Southwest for free bags, or JetBlue for comfort at a fair price, there’s a carrier that fits your needs. By booking smart and comparing deals, you can enjoy your trip without overspending.