13 Cheapest Places to Fly from Boise for an Epic Trip

Looking for cheap flights from Boise used to feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, but that’s changing fast. Airport keeps adding new routes, and I’ve become slightly obsessed with tracking down the best deals. Last month, I found tickets to Seattle that cost less than dinner at Chandlers Steakhouse.

Let me share the best places to fly from Boise that won’t destroy your savings. I just got back from Portland, where I scored a crazy deal and spent my days exploring Forest Park and eating my way through the Alberta Arts District. From quick trips to Las Vegas to weekend escapes in San Francisco, these 13 destinations prove you don’t need a big city airport to find incredible flight deals.

#1 tip for finding cheap flights from Boise

For the past 5 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to find cheap flight deals. It’s free and super easy to use. All you have to do is enter in your home airport (i.e. BOI) and where you want to go, and they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals.

In 2024 alone, I saved thousands of dollars thanks to their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $237 roundtrip fare from Boise to Boston. On average, I save about $200 roundtrip on selected flight routes. So, I’m a huge fan and couldn’t recommend them more!

If you’re a frequent flier, 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 1-2 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 like it, use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Cheapest Places to Fly from Boise

Looking for the best places to fly from Boise? Boise to Albuquerque takes you to stunning desert landscapes and vibrant Southwestern culture. Boise to Tucson offers warm weather, scenic hiking, and a rich history. Boise to Oklahoma City connects you to cowboy culture and a growing arts scene. Boise to Minneapolis brings you to a dynamic city known for its parks, lakes, and lively music scene. Whether you’re after adventure, culture, or relaxation, these are top destinations from Boise.

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!

1. Boise to Albuquerque ($110-$250 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Southwest, Alaska, American (3+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October 🎈 for the Balloon Fiesta or March to April 🌵 for mild weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Culture lovers 🏺, foodies 🌮, outdoor adventurers 🏔️

Albuquerque is basically desert-meets-culture in the coolest way possible. This city mashes up Native American, Spanish, and Mexican vibes without feeling like a tourist trap.

The Sandia Peak Tramway is this crazy long cable car that gives you epic mountain views, while Old Town has that legit historic feel with adobe buildings and hidden courtyards. If you’re a Breaking Bad fan, you’ll geek out seeing all the filming locations scattered around town.

If you can time your visit for October, the International Balloon Fiesta is a total bucket-list moment. At sunrise, hundreds of hot air balloons float above the desert, which is basically Instagram gold.

Southwest typically has the best flight deals, especially if you leverage their Companion Pass program where a friend flies free after earning enough points.

2. Boise to Tucson ($123-$260 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Alaska, American, Southwest (3+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to April 🌵 and October to November 🍂 for comfortable temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Nature lovers 🏜️, history buffs 🏛️, winter sun seekers ☀️

Tucson is Arizona’s laid-back desert gem where stunning mountain ranges cradle a city packed with authentic Southwestern charm, outdoor adventures, and a food scene that earned it the country’s first UNESCO City of Gastronomy title.

Saguaro National Park wraps around the city with forests of massive cacti that can grow up to 60 feet tall and live for 200 years, creating those iconic desert landscapes you’ve seen in every Western movie. The striking white Mission San Xavier del Bac rises from the desert like a Spanish colonial mirage, while the historic University of Arizona campus provides a lush green oasis. Don’t miss hiking the dramatic canyons of Sabino Canyon, exploring the weird indoor rainforest at Biosphere 2, or diving into Tucson’s incredible Mexican food scene.

Spring and fall transform Tucson into the perfect outdoor playground with sunny 70-degree days while Boise shivers. March brings blooming cacti and wildflowers that splash color across the desert. When it comes to flights, Alaska Airlines typically offers the most direct flight options, but midweek departures can save you $50-80 on any carrier if you’re flexible. 

3. Boise to Oklahoma City ($150-$300 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 3 hours
• 🛫 Airlines: Southwest, Alaska, American (2+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to May 🌷 and September to October 🍂 for pleasant temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: History buffs 🏛️, BBQ lovers 🍖, sports fans 🏀

Oklahoma City has transformed from flyover territory to an unexpectedly cool destination where cowboy heritage mixes with urban revival, creating a Midwest getaway that’ll surprise even your travel-snobby friends.

Bricktown serves as the entertainment hub with historic warehouses housing restaurants along a San Antonio-style canal, while the powerful Oklahoma City National Memorial honors the 1995 bombing victims through symbolic chairs and a reflecting pool. The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum goes beyond spurs and saddles with impressive art and exhibits that even non-history buffs find fascinating. 

Sports run deep in this city. Catch the Thunder NBA team for a fraction of what tickets cost in bigger markets!

April and May bring blooming wildflowers, patio weather, and perfect spring temps in the 70s. September and October are great for football season buzz without the heat and humidity. Southwest typically has the best connectivity from Boise, though you’ll need to connect in Denver or Las Vegas either way. 

4. Boise to Minneapolis ($195-$350 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Delta, Sun Country, Southwest (3+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September 🌞 for summer activities or December ❄️ for winter festivities
• 🏆 Perfect for: Outdoor enthusiasts 🏞️, food lovers 🍽️, culture seekers 🎭

Minneapolis is way more than just a flyover city. This place totally crushes the Midwest stereotype with killer food, tons of lakes right in the city, and cultural stuff that rivals coastal spots.

The Mall of America is obviously massive (like seriously, it has an actual theme park inside), but Minneapolis is really about the outdoor scene. The Chain of Lakes gives you legit beaches and rental kayaks within biking distance of downtown, and the Stone Arch Bridge area is perfect for that skyline shot everyone posts. First Avenue is this legendary music venue where Prince got his start, and you’ll find purple tributes to him all over town.

Summer here is absolutely prime time. The city goes nuts for outdoor everything with free concerts at Lake Harriet and patios everywhere. Delta hubs out of MSP Airport so they’ve got the most flight options, but Sun Country sometimes drops crazy deals in the $150 range if you book a couple months out.

5. Boise to Las Vegas ($157-$210 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Southwest, Allegiant, Delta (10+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌷 and September to November 🍂 for pleasant temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Casino enthusiasts 🎰, foodies 🍽️, desert adventurers 🏜️

Las Vegas isn’t just about casinos and clubs. It’s an entertainment oasis where world-class shows, top-tier dining, and stunning natural escapes come together.

The Strip dazzles with themed resorts, from the dancing fountains at the Bellagio to the replica Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas. Just 30 minutes away, Red Rock Canyon delivers desert hikes through vibrant rust-colored landscapes. Ride the High Roller for sweeping city views, catch a Cirque du Soleil show, or take a day trip to the Grand Canyon or Valley of Fire State Park.

Spring and fall hit the sweet spot temperature-wise: warm enough for pool parties, but not so hot that you’ll melt walking the Strip. The route from Boise is busy and budget-friendly. Southwest runs the most nonstop flights, while Allegiant offers no-frills service twice weekly.

Pro tip: download the MyVegas app. It’s a free game that lets you earn real rewards like buffets, show tickets, and even comped hotel nights.

6. Boise to Phoenix ($127-$190 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours
• 🛫 Airlines: Southwest, American Airlines, Alaska (6+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April ☀️ for perfect desert weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Outdoor lovers 🏔️, golf enthusiasts ⛳, foodies 🌮

Phoenix is the ultimate winter escape where desert sunshine guarantees 70-degree days while Boise freezes, creating the perfect playground for hiking, golfing, and patio dining without the summer crowds or peak prices.

Camelback Mountain offers those killer hiking trails with even better views, while the Desert Botanical Garden is actually worth the entrance fee with thousands of cacti and desert plants that look straight out of a nature documentary. Old Town Scottsdale is where you’ll find the best restaurants and shopping, but don’t sleep in downtown Phoenix where the food scene has exploded in the last few years.

Winter and spring transform Phoenix into an outdoor playground, with consistently sunny days and temps between 65 and 85°F. Southwest typically offers the most daily flights from Boise, while American Airlines runs close behind with its Phoenix hub offering great connection options.

7. Boise to Denver ($155-$220 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours
• 🛫 Airlines: Southwest, United, Delta (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October 🏔️ for hiking or December to March ❄️ for skiing
• 🏆 Perfect for: Outdoor adventurers 🥾, beer lovers 🍺, sports fans 🏈

Denver nails that city-meets-mountain vibe. Catch a baseball game in the morning, hike a 14,000-foot peak by afternoon, and finish with a pint at one of the city’s many top-tier breweries.

Red Rocks Amphitheatre is this incredible outdoor concert venue carved into massive red rock formations, while 16th Street Mall gives you that perfect downtown strip for shopping and people watching. The Denver Art Museum has this wild angular building that’s worth checking out even if you don’t go inside. Colorado is basically the craft beer capital of America, so don’t miss spots like Great Divide Brewing or the dozens of smaller taprooms scattered around town.

Summer and fall are perfect for hiking and biking, with temps in the 70s and 80s. Winter brings fresh powder to nearby resorts like Breckenridge and Vail.

United runs the most daily flights from its Denver hub, but Southwest competes with free checked bags and solid pricing. Book 4 to 6 weeks out and fly midweek for the best deals.

8. Boise to Los Angeles ($109-$180 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours
• 🛫 Airlines: Southwest, Alaska, Delta (12+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌼 and September to November 🍂 for ideal weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Movie buffs 🎬, beach lovers 🏖️, food enthusiasts 🍜

Los Angeles serves up that classic California dream where palm-lined streets, iconic beaches, and Hollywood glamour create an endless playground of possibilities just a quick flight from Idaho.

Hollywood lets you walk among the stars (literally) on the Walk of Fame, while the Griffith Observatory delivers both incredible city views and a peek into the cosmos. Beach options abound from the energetic boardwalk scene at Venice Beach to the upscale shores of Malibu. The food scene here is unmatched – from authentic street tacos in East LA to celebrity chef restaurants in Beverly Hills. Don’t miss exploring the diverse neighborhoods like artsy Silver Lake, shopping at the historic Grove, or taking in the stunning collections at the Getty Center (which is completely free).

For cheap flights, Alaska and Southwest offer the most nonstop options. Southwest includes two free checked bags, while Alaska sometimes drops flash sales under $100 one-way.

The insider move? Fly into Burbank Airport instead of LAX if you’re exploring Hollywood or the Valley. It’s way smaller, you’ll get your bags in minutes instead of hours, and rideshares cost half what they do from LAX. 

9. Boise to San Francisco ($99-$250 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: United, Alaska, Southwest (6+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September to November 🍂 for fewer fog days and pleasant temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Food lovers 🍽️, urban explorers 🌉, cultural enthusiasts 🎭

San Francisco packs more iconic sights per square mile than almost anywhere else – a compact, walkable city where Victorian homes climb impossibly steep hills and Karl the Fog rolls dramatically over the Golden Gate Bridge creating postcard moments around every corner.

The famous cable cars offer more than just transportation as they climb and descend the city’s 43 hills, while Alcatraz Island delivers fascinating prison history with spectacular city views across the bay. Food here is next-level – from dim sum in Chinatown to pasta in North Beach to innovative, trendy spots in the Mission District. Don’t forget walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, exploring the quirky shops in Haight-Ashbury, or wandering through the urban oasis of Golden Gate Park.

Fall brings San Francisco’s best weather with fewer fog days and comfortable temperatures, making it an ideal time to visit. For Boise travelers, United runs the most service through their SFO hub, though Alaska and Southwest compete with similar frequency and often better prices. Look for deals 6-8 weeks out, and skip the rental car if you’re staying in the city.

10. Boise to San Diego ($122-$210 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Southwest, Alaska Airlines (3+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round ☀️ with September to November 🍂 offering fewer crowds
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, outdoor enthusiasts 🌊, families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

San Diego might be the perfect California escape. This laid-back coastal city offers 70 miles of beaches, perfect weather year-round, and that elusive combo of big-city energy with small-town vibes.

La Jolla Cove delivers Instagram-worthy ocean views and sea lions sunbathing just feet away. Balboa Park is a gorgeous urban space packed with 17 museums, lush gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Grab fish tacos in Ocean Beach, splurge on fine dining in the Gaslamp Quarter, or stroll the historic ships at the Maritime Museum. Catch a sunset at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park or cruise over to Coronado Island to visit the iconic red-roofed Hotel Del Coronado, a coastal landmark since 1888.

Fall is a sleeper-hit season here — fewer tourists, sunny skies, and ideal temps for beach days and hikes. Southwest dominates the Boise–San Diego route with the most frequent nonstop flights, while Alaska Airlines competes with solid service and occasional sales. Book 6 to 8 weeks out and fly midweek for the best deals.

Once you arrive, consider skipping expensive tourist attractions in favor of the city’s incredible free beaches!

11. Boise to Reno ($133-$210 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour
• 🛫 Airlines: Southwest, Alaska Airlines (3+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall 🍂 for comfortable temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Casino enthusiasts 🎰, outdoor adventurers 🏔️, art and festival lovers 🎨

Reno is smaller and way more relaxed than Vegas, but still delivers on casinos, food, and outdoor access. You’ll find $5 tables, free drinks while gambling, and none of the Strip chaos.

Downtown has murals everywhere, solid breweries, and spots to eat right by the Truckee River. Tahoe is just 45 minutes away if you want hiking, lake time, or mountain views. Locals float the Truckee on weekends, and Mount Rose has great trails. There’s also leftover Burning Man art around the city, plus the National Automobile Museum, which is actually super cool if you’re into vintage cars.

Southwest dominates this quick hop with several nonstop options, though Alaska Airlines jumps in with competitive fares too. The best deals pop up 4-6 weeks before travel, with Tuesday and Wednesday departures often $30-50 cheaper than weekend flights. Spring and fall are perfect for visiting, with comfortable temps perfect for exploring both city and mountains without summer crowds or winter snow (unless you’re after ski season).

• Read Next: Scenic Places in Nevada

12. Boise to Sacramento ($150-$220 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Southwest, Alaska Airlines (2+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Fall 🍁 for perfect weather and fewer tourists
• 🏆 Perfect for: History buffs 🏛️, food lovers 🍷, budget travelers 💰

Sacramento doesn’t get much hype, which honestly makes it better. California’s capital is way more affordable than the coast, but still brings legit food, cool neighborhoods, and Gold Rush history.

Old Sacramento feels like a movie set, with wooden sidewalks, historic buildings, and views of the river. The State Capitol offers free tours and chill gardens with trees from all over the world. The food scene is a sleeper hit. Surrounded by farms, the city’s restaurants go heavy on fresh, local ingredients. Check out the Midtown area for breweries, coffee shops, and indie stores, or hit the Crocker Art Museum if you’re into art. Bonus: Napa Valley and Apple Hill are both easy day trips.

For flights from Boise, Southwest runs the most consistent service with several weekly nonstops, while Alaska jumps in with competitive options too. Timing is everything, with fall being the ideal period to visit thanks to its comfortable 70-degree days. 

13. Boise to Dallas ($159-$240 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 3 hours
• 🛫 Airlines: Southwest, American Airlines (4+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 for pleasant temperatures before summer heat
• 🏆 Perfect for: BBQ enthusiasts 🍖, sports fans 🏈, big-city explorers 🏙️

Dallas brings big Texas energy without the long travel day. This massive city blends cowboy culture with sleek skyscrapers and has plenty to do for food lovers, sports fans, and city explorers.

Start at Reunion Tower for panoramic skyline views, then dive into history at Dealey Plaza and the Sixth Floor Museum, focused on JFK’s assassination. Food-wise, it’s all about brisket, BBQ joints, and Tex-Mex that’ll spoil you for life. Check out Deep Ellum for murals, live music, and cool bars, catch a Cowboys game at AT&T Stadium, or shop in style at Highland Park Village, the oldest shopping center in the country.

Spring is the sweet spot for this city. You’ll get warm days, outdoor patios, and just enough sunshine before the summer heat hits hard.

American Airlines runs the most flights from Boise through their massive DFW hub, but Southwest offers strong nonstop options too. Book 6 to 8 weeks ahead for the best prices. For easy downtown transport, hop on the free M-Line Trolley and skip the rideshare bill.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Cheapest Flights from Boise

Looking to expand your knowledge about the cheapest destinations from Boise? Here are some common questions I get a lot about cheap flights from Boise to anywhere.

What are the cheapest destinations from Boise?

From the heart of the Gem State, some of the most affordable getaways include Minneapolis, Seattle, Denver, Las Vegas, and Phoenix. These cities frequently pop up as budget-friendly flight options, offering a delightful mix of urban allure and natural wonders.

When is the best time to book cheap flights from Boise?

Securing the best deals from Boise Air Terminal often means being an early bird. Booking at least six weeks in advance can lead to significant savings. Also, keep an eye out for mid-week deals, particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Which airlines offer the cheapest flights from Boise?

Delta, Southwest, and Alaska Airlines are known to offer competitive rates from Boise. Their frequent routes and seasonal promotions often make them the top choices for travelers seeking value without compromising on service.

Are there direct flights from Boise to these cheap destinations?

Absolutely! Direct flights from Boise frequently head to cities like Minneapolis, Seattle, and Denver, among others. It’s always worth checking specific dates and airlines to snag those direct routes and bypass lengthy layovers.

Where is the cheapest place to fly from Boise internationally?

For those with a passport itching for a stamp, Cancun often emerges as a surprisingly affordable international destination from Boise. Its popularity as a vacation spot means regular deals, especially during the off-peak seasons.

Is BOI the main airport in Boise for these cheap flights?

Yes, Boise Air Terminal/Gowen Field, is the main airport serving Boise, Idaho. It’s the primary hub for both domestic and international flights in and out of Boise, making it the go-to for travelers seeking cheap flights and diverse destination options from the city. Whether you’re eyeing a quick domestic jaunt or a more extended international adventure, the terminal is where you’ll likely start your journey.

How can I stay updated on the cheapest flights from Boise to anywhere?

Sign up for flight deal alerts. There are various websites and apps that track airfare and send notifications when prices drop. Sites like Scott’s Cheap Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak offer such services.

• Join airline loyalty programs. By becoming a member of airline frequent flyer programs, you’ll receive exclusive promotions, deals, and sometimes early access to seat sales.
• Follow airlines and travel deal accounts on social media. Many airlines post exclusive deals, promo codes, and flash sales on their social media channels, especially on Twitter.
• Use fare comparison websites. Regularly check websites like Google Flights, Momondo, or Skyscanner. They allow you to view prices across various dates and airlines, giving you a comprehensive picture of the best deals available.
• Subscribe to newsletters of travel blogs and websites. Many travel enthusiasts and bloggers share tips, tricks, and sometimes exclusive deals with their subscribers.

By staying proactive and utilizing these resources, you’ll increase your chances of snagging great flight deals from Boise to numerous destinations.

Do flight prices from Boise change often?

Flight prices can fluctuate based on factors like demand, season, fuel prices, and airline promotions. It’s always a good idea to monitor prices regularly and book when you find a deal that fits your budget.

Can I get cheaper fares if I book a round trip?

Booking a round trip often results in lower fares compared to purchasing two separate one-way tickets. Airlines typically offer discounts for round-trip flights as an incentive to retain travelers on both legs of their journey. However, it’s always a good idea to compare both options, as occasionally, mixing and matching airlines for one-way tickets might offer competitive prices.

How early should I arrive at Boise airport for my flight?

For domestic flights from Boise Airport, it’s recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure. If you’re flying internationally from Boise, aim to be there at least 3 hours ahead of time. Keep in mind that during peak travel seasons or busy hours, security lines might be longer, so always factor in a little extra time to ensure a stress-free experience.