Miami is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the US (and one of my personal favorites). With miles of sunny beaches, blue skies, legendary attractions, delicious food, and diverse culture, it’s not hard to see why. You might think you’d have to pay a lot of money to enjoy a vacation in Miami. Think again. In truth, cheap flights to Miami can easily fit into most travelers’ budgets. In this post, I’ll tell you everything you need to know to enjoy an awesome yet inexpensive Miami vacation.
From the famous Art Deco architecture of South Beach to the vibrant neighborhoods of Little Havana and Wynwood, there’s a lot to love about the city of Miami. It’s definitely one of the best places to visit in South Florida, bar none. The only thing that’s not so lovable about Miami? The cost of flying there. Travel may be a fulfilling hobby, but it can also be a pricey one.
Being on a budget shouldn’t hold you back from indulging in the city’s culinary delights, exploring its cultural hotspots, or unwinding on its sun-kissed shores. You don’t need to break the bank to experience the magic of this gateway to Latin American culture. With a little bit of planning and some insider tips, you can score incredible deals from cheap airlines to Florida. Before you know it, you’ll be lounging on a beach chair with a tasty cocktail in one hand and a full wallet in the other!
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#1 tip for finding cheap flights to Miami
Looking for cheap flights to Miami? Before jumping into all the best cities and airports to fly into MIA, I want to share a quick tip to save money on airfare.
For the past 3 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to find amazing flight deals. All you have to do is enter in your home airport and where you want to go, and they’ll send mistake fares and other super cheap flight deals directly to your inbox. And the best part? It’s completely FREE! In 2022 alone, I saved thousands of dollars thanks to their email alerts – including most recently, a $98 roundtrip fare from Boston to Miami. On average, I save about $300 roundtrip on selected flight routes. So, I couldn’t recommend them more!
If you’re a frequent traveler, consider getting their premium version. It costs $49 per year, but it will easily save you hundreds (or thousands) of dollars if you fly just 2-3 times. I recommend signing up for the free trial (which you can cancel at any time) to test it out for yourself. And if you find it valuable, use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!
9 more tips for saving money on cheap flights to Miami
In addition to using Scott’s Cheap Flights, there are numerous other ways to make the cheapest flights to Miami even cheaper. Being a budget-conscious globetrotter myself, I’ve picked up a lot of good tips, tricks, and travel hacks over the years.
The most important piece of advice I can offer is to plan ahead. That’s the best way to ensure your vacation in Florida is both fun and frugal. Do your research. Build a budget. Make a checklist. By carefully considering your options and being mindful of your spending, there’s no reason you can’t enjoy everything Miami has to offer, from its beautiful beaches to its vibrant nightlife and everything in between!
1. Be flexible with travel dates
Flexibility is key to finding the best flight deals. Consider flying on weekdays or shoulder seasons when demand is lower, as prices tend to be more affordable. Use flight search engines that offer flexible date options to compare prices and find the cheapest days to fly.
2. Book in advance
Generally, booking your flight well in advance can lead to better prices. Start tracking fares early and aim to book your tickets around 1 to 3 months prior to your travel dates. However, be aware that last-minute deals can occasionally pop up, so it’s worth keeping an eye out for those as well.
3. Compare prices
When looking for cheap flights to Miami, don’t be afraid to comparison-shop across multiple airlines and travel websites. Utilize flight search engines and other travel booking sites like Skyscanner to easily compare fares and choose the most affordable option. Don’t forget to check the airline’s official website, as they sometimes offer exclusive deals or discounts.
4. Consider alternative airports
Some of the cheapest airports in Florida include Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), both of which are just a stone’s throw from Miami. Check prices for flights to these airports as well, as they can sometimes be cheaper. If the price difference justifies it, consider flying into an alternative airport and taking ground transportation to Miami.
5. Be open to connecting flights
Direct flights to Miami may be convenient, but they are not always the cheapest option. Be open to connecting flights to Miami, as they can often offer significant savings. However, ensure that layovers have reasonable durations to avoid long waits. Choosing between connecting flights and direct flights is always a matter of balancing convenience with cost; only you can decide when an inconvenience is no longer worth the savings.
6. Join airline loyalty programs
Sign up for airline loyalty programs to earn points or miles every time you fly. Accumulated points can be redeemed for discounted or free flights in the future. Additionally, loyalty program members often receive exclusive offers and discounts. Many of the best travel credit cards also offer reward points when flying, so take advantage of that as well.
7. Clear your browser cookies
Here’s something most people don’t realize. When searching for flights, airline websites may track your activity and potentially increase prices based on demand. Clear your browser cookies or search in incognito mode to avoid this and ensure you see the most accurate and competitive prices.
8. Watch out for extra fees
Some budget airlines charge extra fees for services like baggage, seat selection, and in-flight meals. Consider these additional costs when comparing prices. If you can travel with just a carry-on bag, you may save money by avoiding checked baggage fees.
9. Follow airlines on social media
Stay updated with your favorite airlines’ social media accounts. This is where they frequently announce flash sales, promotions, and other exclusive discounts. By following them, you can be among the first to know about these limited-time offers and snag incredible deals on cheap flights to Miami.
Looking to save BIG on airfare? I recommend signing up for Dollar Flight Club. Thanks to DFC, I’ve saved $5,000+ on travel in 2024…so I couldn’t recommend it more!
5 cheap airlines to Miami: The best airlines offering cheap flights to Miami
Finding affordable flights to Miami means finding affordable airlines to Miami. Luckily, there are a number of airlines offering cheap flights to Miami right now. Each one has its own unique pros and cons. Keep reading for a quick rundown of each airline, so you can determine which one is right for you.
1. Spirit Airlines
Renowned for its ultra-low fares and no-frills approach, Spirit Airlines is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking cheap flights to Miami. With a focus on “bare fare” pricing, Spirit allows you to pay only for the services you need, keeping costs remarkably low. Fly comfortably on their modern Airbus fleet and enjoy a range of optional add-ons like seat selection and baggage allowance at an additional cost.
2. Frontier Airlines
Arguably the leading budget carrier offering affordable flights to Miami right now is Frontier Airlines. With their “Low Fares Done Right” philosophy, Frontier delivers excellent value for money. Customize your travel experience by choosing from a range of add-ons, including seat selection, baggage options, and in-flight amenities. Despite their low prices, Frontier maintains a comfortable flying environment with modern aircraft and an attentive cabin crew.
3. Allegiant Air
If you’re looking not just for cheap flights, but for budget-friendly travel packages to Miami, Allegiant Air is your go-to airline. They take a unique approach by bundling flights with hotel and car rental options, ensuring you get the best value for your money. While their focus is on essentials, they provide a comfortable journey with their seating and friendly service. Take advantage of their affordable packages to make your trip to Miami even more economical.
4. JetBlue Airways
Combining affordability with a high-quality travel experience, JetBlue Airways is a favorite among budget-conscious travelers. Known for its excellent customer service, JetBlue offers competitive fares without compromising on comfort. Enjoy complimentary in-flight snacks and beverages, ample legroom, and seatback entertainment screens on most flights.
5. Southwest Airlines
Though not always the absolute cheapest, Southwest Airlines offers competitive prices and customer-friendly policies that make it a popular choice for travelers of every budget level. With their “Bags Fly Free” policy, you can save on checked baggage fees, and they have a generous ticket change policy as well.
3 best airports with cheap flights to Miami
Not all airports are created equal. Different airports offer different features and amenities, and different airports also service different airlines. If you’re determined to save money on an affordable flight to Miami, choosing the right airport is just as integral as choosing the right carrier. Here are three airports that accommodate the cheapest airlines to Miami.
1. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
Located just 27 miles north of downtown Miami, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is a popular alternative for travelers seeking more affordable flights. Many budget airlines, including the aforementioned Spirit Airlines and JetBlue Airways, operate flights to FLL.
The airport offers a range of domestic and international flights, making it a convenient and cost-effective choice for accessing Miami and the surrounding areas. Ground transportation options, such as shuttles and rental cars, are readily available to transfer you from FLL to Miami.
2. Palm Beach International Airport (PBI)
Situated approximately 70 miles north of Miami, Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) is another option to consider for travelers seeking cheaper flights. While it is a bit farther from Miami compared to FLL, PBI may offer discounted fares depending on your departure location and travel dates.
Several major airlines, including Southwest Airlines, operate flights to PBI. Ground transportation options, such as shuttles and rental cars, can transport you from PBI to Miami, making it relatively easy to get you where you want to go.
3. Miami International Airport (MIA)
Flying into the airports mentioned above tends to be cheaper than flying into Miami International Airport (MIA). However, it does offer greater convenience, being that’s only 8 miles from the city of Miami. In some cases, this can actually help lower your travel costs by removing the need for rental cars and other forms of ground transportation.
As one of the busiest airports in the world, MIA serves as a hub for both domestic and international flights. It offers a wide range of amenities, including numerous dining and shopping options, lounges, and more. The airport has three terminals and handles millions of passengers annually, connecting them to and from destinations all across the globe.
The average cost of cheap flights to Miami
One thing I’ve picked up after all my years of traveling, nothing is set in stone, not even the price of airfare. The average cost for even the cheapest flights to Miami can vary depending on various factors. These can include such things as departure location, season, airline, and how far in advance you book your ticket.
That said, if you want to get a general idea of what an affordable getaway to Miami might cost you right now, I’m here to help. A quick look at airfare prices at the time of this writing tells me that the average costs of domestic flights to Miami typically range from $200 to $500.
Again, though, it’s important to remember that prices fluctuate over time. In addition to the factors mentioned above, you may end up paying more if you upgrade to business class or first class. Additionally, during peak travel seasons, holidays, or special events, ticket prices tend to be higher.
In the next section, I’ll go into the best times of year to book cheap flights to Miami. That way you can ensure you have every opportunity to score the best bargain possible.
When to book cheap flights to Miami
One of the biggest factors that can affect the price of flying to Miami is also one that many people underestimate: timing. Booking with the cheapest airlines to Miami can go a long way to saving you money, but knowing when to book is often just as important as who you book with. With that in mind, here’s what you should know about the best time to book a cheap flight to Miami.
Get your tickets early
To reiterate one of my money-saving travel tips from earlier, it’s a good idea to book your flight well in advance. This can help you secure better prices by dodging the last-minute rush. As the date of departure for a flight gets closer, fewer and fewer seats are left for sale. This enables airlines to charge higher prices. Buying tickets early allows you to take advantage of early-bird deals, while also giving you a wider range of flight options to choose from.
Avoid peak travel seasons
Miami experiences high tourism traffic during peak seasons like winter holidays, spring break, and major events like Art Basel Miami. Prices tend to be higher during these periods due to increased demand. If you have flexibility in your travel dates, consider flying during the shoulder seasons or off-peak months when demand is lower. You can often find better deals during these times.
The peak travel season in Miami typically occurs during the winter months, specifically from December to February. This period attracts a large influx of visitors seeking to escape colder climates and enjoy Miami’s warm and sunny weather. The pleasant temperatures, ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (mid-20s to low 30s Celsius), make it an appealing destination for beachgoers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those looking to soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
The holiday season, spanning from Thanksgiving to New Year’s, likewise draws a significant number of tourists. Many travelers take advantage of their time off to enjoy the festive spirit, explore Miami’s attractions, and celebrate in a tropical setting.
Another thing to keep in mind is that Miami hosts several tourism-boosting events and festivals during the winter. Examples include the aforementioned Art Basel Miami, as well as the Miami International Boat Show, the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, and the Miami Winter Music Conference.
Due to the high demand during the peak season, airfares and hotel rates in Miami are generally higher compared to other times of the year. Worse, crowded beaches, longer lines at attractions, and busier streets are all common during the peak season.
For travelers seeking more affordable fares and fewer crowds, consider booking your flight in spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). The weather remains pleasant during these periods, and you can often find better deals while enjoying a relatively quieter atmosphere.
Keep an eye on sales and promotions
Airlines frequently offer sales and promotions throughout the year, so it’s worth keeping an eye out for these. Sign up for airline newsletters, follow their social media accounts, and set fare alerts to be notified of any special deals or discounts. By staying informed, you can take advantage of limited-time offers and secure cheaper flights to Miami.
Consider weekday travel
Weekday flights, particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, tend to be cheaper compared to weekend flights. Many travelers prefer flying on weekends, resulting in higher demand and prices. If your schedule allows, consider adjusting your travel dates to include weekdays for potentially more affordable fares.
Are cheap flights to Miami really worth it?
Cutting costs is always a tradeoff. For some travelers, opting for cheap flights to Miami over more expensive ones may not be worth the discount. Everyone is different, and we all value different things when traveling. Only you can determine if flying via the cheapest airlines to Miami is right for you. To help you make that decision, here are some of the main differences between cheap flights to Miami and expensive ones.
Price
The most obvious difference is the cost. Cheap flights to Miami typically have lower fares compared to more expensive flights. Airlines offering budget or low-cost options often provide basic services at a lower price point, allowing travelers to save money on airfare.
Inclusions and amenities
Expensive flights usually come with additional inclusions and amenities. These may include complimentary meals and beverages, extra legroom, in-flight entertainment systems, and more comfortable seating options. Cheap flights to Miami may offer fewer amenities, but some services that are typically included in more expensive fares may be still available for an additional fee.
Flexibility
Expensive flights often provide more flexible booking and cancellation policies. They may offer greater options for changing travel dates or making modifications to your itinerary without hefty fees. Cheap flights, on the other hand, may have more restrictive policies and additional fees for changes or cancellations.
Seat selection and upgrades
With more expensive flights to Miami, you may have the option to choose your preferred seat in advance or have access to premium seating options. Cheap flights may have limited or no seat selection options included in the base fare, and seat upgrades may come at an additional cost.
Baggage allowance
Expensive flights may offer more generous baggage allowances, allowing you to check in more bags or have higher weight limits without incurring extra fees. Cheap flights may have stricter baggage policies with additional charges for checked bags or limitations on the size and weight of carry-on luggage. Fortunately, today’s best travel gear includes space-saving luggage options that can help you make the most of any baggage allowance.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about cheap Miami flights
Looking to gain a deeper understanding of how to score cheap flights to MIA? Here are some common questions and answers you should know about.
What month is the cheapest to fly to Miami?
If you’re looking for cheap times to fly to Miami, keep your eyes on September. This month often brings significant savings on airfare to the vibrant city.
As summer comes to a close and hurricane season begins, travel demand decreases, leading to lower ticket prices. Take advantage of the discounted fares and explore Miami’s stunning beaches, vibrant neighborhoods, and savor its diverse culinary scene. Just be aware of the possibility of occasional rain showers.
So, if you’re seeking an affordable Miami getaway, September is the month to set your sights on and make the most of your travel budget.
Which airport is cheaper to fly to Miami?
When it comes to finding cheaper flights to Miami, Miami International Airport (MIA) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) are the most budget friendly.
While Miami International Airport is the primary airport serving the city, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, located about 30 miles north of Miami, can often offer more affordable options. Airlines like Spirit and JetBlue, known for their budget-friendly fares, frequently operate flights to Fort Lauderdale. If you’re flexible and willing to make the short journey to Miami from Fort Lauderdale, you might snag a great deal on your airfare.
So, explore the options, compare prices, and consider both airports to find the best deal for your Miami adventure.
Is it cheaper to fly into Miami or Ft Lauderdale?
When it comes to comparing flight prices to Miami, check both Miami International Airport (MIA) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL).
While Miami International Airport is the main airport serving Miami, it can sometimes have higher fares due to its larger size and greater number of airlines operating there.
On the other hand, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, located about 30 miles north of Miami, often offers more competitive prices. This is especially true with budget airlines like Spirit and JetBlue operating frequent flights from there. However, fares can vary depending on factors such as travel dates, airline promotions, and route availability.
To ensure you get the most affordable flight to MIA, compare prices for both airports and consider the overall cost. This includes transportation to your final destination, when making your decision.
Overall experience with cheap Miami flight tickets
While cheap flights may offer fewer frills, they can still provide a safe and efficient means of reaching your destination. The primary focus of budget airlines is to provide affordable transportation, so they may prioritize cost-cutting measures. More expensive flights often aim to provide a more luxurious or enhanced travel experience, focusing on passenger comfort, personalized service, and attention to detail.
Ultimately, the choice between cheap flights to Miami and more expensive ones will depend on your budget, travel preferences, and the importance you place on amenities and flexibility. It’s essential to evaluate your needs and priorities when selecting the right flight option for your trip to Miami.
Remember: this is your vacation. Nothing is more important than you and your loved ones having a good time. Sometimes that means paying a little extra. Sometimes that means saving on travel costs so you can spend more money on food, lodging, activities, and souvenirs. Either way, you’re in for a treat when flying to Miami. It’s one of my favorite vacation destinations in the US, and I predict it will become one of your favorites as well. Happy travels!
