13 Affordable Places to Fly From Charleston for Your Next Trip

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Think you’re stuck with expensive flights from CHS? I used to think so too, until I became borderline obsessed with tracking flight deals (my screen time stats are honestly concerning). Just last week, I spotted roundtrip tickets to Miami for $150, which means you could be lounging on South Beach and crushing Cuban sandwiches at Sanguich for less than a weekend of eating out on King Street.

These are some of the best places in Charleston to catch surprisingly cheap flights, and I’m not talking about those sketchy budget airlines either. From Nashville’s incredible food scene (I just had the best hot chicken at Hattie B’s) to New York City’s endless energy, these 13 destinations prove you don’t need to drive to Charlotte or Atlanta for amazing travel deals.

#1 tip for finding cheap flights from Charleston

Looking for cheap places to fly from Charleston? Before jumping into all the coolest cities and airports to fly into, I want to share a quick tip to save money on airfare.

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. CHS) 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 $377 roundtrip fare from Charleston to London. On average, I save about $300 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%!

Best Destinations with Cheap Flights from Charleston

Looking for destinations with cheap flights from Charleston? Visit Atlanta for its bustling city life and rich history, Miami for stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, Orlando for world-famous theme parks and family-friendly attractions, and Washington for iconic landmarks and cultural experiences. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or cuisine, these destinations offer budget-friendly escapes from Charleston.

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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!

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1. Charleston to Atlanta ($49–$90 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Delta, American (multiple daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and September to November 🍁 for mild weather and fewer crowds
• 🏆 Perfect for: Urban explorers 🏙️, food enthusiasts 🍽️, culture seekers 🎭

Atlanta is that perfect big city getaway when you’re craving metropolitan energy but don’t want to blow your entire travel budget on flights. 

Midtown is where the action happens. Piedmont Park gives major Central Park vibes but without the tourist hordes, while the High Museum houses incredible art collections you can actually enjoy without fighting through crowds. The Atlanta BeltLine is basically an outdoor gallery where you can walk or bike past incredible street art, stopping at pop-up markets and beer gardens along the way. 

Fall is prime time, when the heat eases up and walking the city actually feels good. Delta runs this city as its home base, often dropping fares below $60 roundtrip when you book during their Tuesday afternoon sales.

Two days here and you’ll see why so many TV shows and movies film in this surprisingly affordable urban playground.

• Read Next: Affordable Places to Fly from Atlanta

2. Charleston to Miami ($63–$110 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: American, Delta, JetBlue (direct flights available)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April 🏖️ for perfect beach weather without summer humidity
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🌊, nightlife enthusiasts 🕺, art scene explorers 🎨

Miami hits totally different from any other US city. This vibrant melting pot delivers tropical vibes without needing a passport, insane architecture that looks ripped from a movie set, and neighborhoods so diverse you’ll feel like you’ve visited multiple countries in one weekend trip from Charleston.

South Beach gets all the attention, but the real move is exploring beyond the tourist zones. Wynwood transformed from warehouse district to open-air street art gallery, with walls covered in mind-blowing murals that change regularly. Between photos, hit up Panther Coffee for seriously good cold brew before exploring the district’s art galleries and boutiques selling items you definitely won’t find at the mall. 

JetBlue usually offers the best nonstop deals, with one-way fares often dropping below $70 during flash sales. American is a solid backup, especially when connecting through Charlotte.

• Read Next: Budget-Friendly Destinations to Fly from Miami

3. Charleston to Orlando ($55–$95 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: JetBlue, Delta, Frontier (multiple daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: January to April 🌞 and September to November 🍂 for fewer crowds and milder weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Theme park enthusiasts 🎢, outdoor adventurers 🚣, budget travelers 💰

Orlando is more than just mouse ears and overpriced theme park food. This central Florida city has evolved into a surprisingly well-rounded destination with natural springs, a thriving food scene, and yes, those iconic attractions you probably grew up dreaming about.

Winter Park feels like a different world entirely, with oak-lined brick streets, lakeside parks, and indie boutiques. You can even rent a pontoon boat and explore the nearby chain of lakes for less than the cost of a single theme park meal. The Mills 50 district delivers serious foodie cred with the best Vietnamese and Asian fusion spots in the Southeast, all in unpretentious settings where dinner won’t break the bank. 

Frontier Airlines often drops one-way fares to $39 if you can travel light and be flexible with times. JetBlue offers a more comfortable ride with competitive prices, especially on Tuesday and Wednesday departures.

• Read Next: Cheap Places to Fly from Orlando

4. Charleston to Washington, D.C. ($68-$115 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: American, United, Southwest (multiple direct options)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 for cherry blossoms and September to November 🍁 for perfect temps
• 🏆 Perfect for: History buffs 🏛️, museum hoppers 🖼️, political junkies 🗣️

D.C. delivers serious cultural bang for your buck with world-class museums that are actually free, neighborhoods packed with character, and a food scene that’s exploded way beyond the stuffy steakhouses serving lobbyists.

The National Mall is obviously iconic, but the real move is hitting the free Smithsonian museums strategically. Go to the National Air and Space Museum right when it opens to see the moon rocks without crowds, then hop over to the mind-blowing National Museum of African American History. Afterward, explore beyond the tourist core. The Shaw and H Street neighborhoods are packed with indie shops, craft cocktail bars, and some of the best food in the city.

Fall is ideal, with crisp weather, colorful trees, and lighter crowds. Southwest often runs the best sales out of Charleston, and American usually matches with nonstop service.

• Read Next: Best Waterfalls in Washington State

5. Charleston to Nashville ($91–$130 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Southwest, American, Delta (some direct options)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌷 and September to October 🍂 for perfect outdoor weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Music lovers 🎸, foodies 🍗, weekend partiers 🥂

Nashville balances honky-tonk chaos with a whole lot of cool. You’ll find nightly live music, incredible Southern food, and neighborhoods with enough personality to keep your itinerary full and your wallet mostly intact.

Lower Broadway gets all the tourist attention with its neon lights and honky-tonks, but the real magic happens in neighborhoods like East Nashville, where converted Victorian homes now house the best food scene. The Gulch offers street art, upscale shopping, and food worth a detour. For live music that feels local, The 5 Spot and The Basement are intimate, affordable, and heavy on talent.

Southwest usually runs the cheapest nonstop flights, with fares sometimes dropping below $100 roundtrip. American connects through Charlotte with competitive prices, especially for midweek travel. 

• Read Next: Affordable Places to Fly from Nashville

6. Charleston to Dallas ($125–$180 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: American, Delta (direct flights available)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌺 and September to November 🍁 for pleasant temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Urban explorers 🏙️, art lovers 🎨, food enthusiasts 🍖

Dallas shatters every cowboy stereotype you might be holding onto. This sprawling Texas city blends glassy skyscrapers with colorful street art, cutting-edge museums, and one of the best food scenes in the South.

Deep Ellum is where the cool factor maxes out. This historic district plastered with incredible murals houses the city’s best live music venues, craft breweries, and tattoo shops all within walking distance of each other. In the Arts District, the Dallas Museum of Art and Nasher Sculpture Center are both worth a slow afternoon. For fresh air, Klyde Warren Park offers food trucks and skyline views from a park literally built over a freeway.

When it comes to flights, American Airlines dominates DFW as their massive hub, frequently running flash sales with fares dipping below $150 roundtrip. Delta offers competitive connecting service through Atlanta if direct flights are full. 

• Read Next: Cheapest Places to Fly from Dallas

7. Charleston to Chicago ($127-$175 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: United, American (direct flights available)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October 🌞 when the city comes alive after winter
• 🏆 Perfect for: Architecture enthusiasts 🏙️, food adventurers 🍕, culture seekers 🎭

Chicago brings big-city buzz with Midwestern charm and prices that won’t drain your wallet. This lakefront stunner blends world-class architecture, vibrant neighborhoods, and a food scene that’s anything but basic.

The Loop houses those iconic skyscrapers that define the skyline, but the real charm happens in neighborhoods like Wicker Park where vintage shops, independent bookstores, and craft cocktail bars create the perfect urban playground. The 606 elevated trail lets you bike or walk above the city streets between neighborhoods, while Millennium Park delivers that perfect Cloud Gate (Bean) selfie you know you want. 

United and American offer direct flights under $140 during shoulder seasons. If you time your visit in summer and early fall, you’ll enjoy Chicago’s perfect temps and street festivals.

A weekend here will have you planning your return trip before your plane even takes off for Charleston.

• Read Next: Cheapest Places to Fly from Chicago

8. Charleston to Denver ($145-$200 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Southwest, United, Frontier (some direct options)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October 🏔️ for outdoor activities and perfect mountain weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Mountain explorers 🏞️, craft beer enthusiasts 🍺, outdoor adventurers 🥾

Denver strikes that rare balance between urban buzz and nature access. From rooftop bars to high-alpine hikes, it’s the perfect launchpad for a long weekend in the Rockies.

In RiNo, old warehouses now house mural-covered breweries, food halls, and art galleries. Union Station isn’t just a transit hub but a stunning historic building now filled with cocktail bars, restaurants, and boutiques that make waiting for a train actually enjoyable. For nature without leaving the city, Washington Park offers lake views, trails, and paddleboard rentals with mountain views in the background.

Frontier often drops prices below $150 if you pack light. Southwest is comfier and includes bags for your hiking gear. Look for hotels in LoHi or Baker, where rates are lower but still close to the action.

• Read Next: Cheap Places to Fly from Denver

9. Charleston to Philadelphia ($69–$115 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: American, Spirit, Frontier (direct flights available)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌷 and September to October 🍁 for perfect outdoor weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: History buffs 🏛️, food lovers 🧀, museum enthusiasts 🖼️

Philadelphia blends big city culture with a laid-back, walkable vibe that rivals its pricier Northeast neighbors. This is a place where historic landmarks sit next to world-class art, and dinner can mean Thai curry, Amish pretzels, or an iconic cheesesteak — sometimes all in the same block.

Old City has those classic cobblestone streets for your historic fix, but Fishtown is where the magic happens now. This formerly industrial area is packed with spots like Evil Genius Beer Company serving brews with names so funny you’ll be texting them to your friends, and Suraya, a Lebanese market and restaurant so gorgeous you’ll want to move in. The city’s Mural Arts Program has turned Philly into an open-air art gallery with more than 4,000 murals across its neighborhoods.

American Airlines often drops direct fares under $80 roundtrip if you book midweek. Frontier can go even lower if you pack light.

• Read Next: Cheap Flights from Philadelphia

10. Charleston to Boston ($77–$125 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: JetBlue, Delta, American (direct flights available)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to October 🍁 for perfect weather and outdoor activities
• 🏆 Perfect for: History enthusiasts 🏛️, sports fans ⚾, seafood lovers 🦞

Boston is the rare city that feels historic, brainy, and just plain fun. It’s walkable, filled with character, and packed with local pride.

Beacon Hill gives those perfect historic vibes with its narrow brick streets and gas lamps that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Meanwhile, places like Assembly Row show off modern Boston with waterfront shops, restaurants, and beer gardens packed with locals who’ve escaped the tourist zones. For the ultimate local experience, Harvard Square is buzzing with bookstores, coffee shops, and street performers. 

JetBlue consistently runs the best direct flight deals from Charleston, often dropping below $85 roundtrip midweek. If you’re flexible, you can land a solid fare and spend your savings on clam chowder or game-day tickets.

• Read Next: Affordable Places to Fly from Boston

11. Charleston to Toronto ($145–$195 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Air Canada, United, American (connecting service)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September 🌞 for festivals and May to October 🍁 for pleasant weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Urban explorers 🏙️, culture seekers 🎭, international vibes 🌎

Toronto delivers global energy without the jet lag. This incredibly diverse, walkable city is packed with neighborhoods that feel like mini countries,  from Kensington Market’s street murals and vintage shops to Queen Street West, where cafés, galleries, and record stores set the creative tone.

Kensington Market is basically the coolest neighborhood ever, a pedestrian paradise where vintage shops sit next to Jamaican patty spots next to mezcal bars in colorfully painted Victorian houses. Meanwhile, Queen Street West delivers peak energy with indie boutiques, vinyl record shops, and cafes where everyone seems to be working on something creative on their laptops. For views that’ll blow up your social feed, head to Toronto Islands, where a quick ferry ride gets you postcard-perfect skyline shots plus beaches where locals escape summer heat.

If you visit in summer, you’ll experience diverse festivals and parades almost every weekend. For flights, Air Canada often offers the best connections through Montreal, with roundtrip fares under $160 during midweek sales. 

• Read Next: Cheap Flights from Toronto

12. Charleston to Tampa ($51–$90 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Southwest, Spirit, Delta (multiple direct flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to April 🏖️ for perfect temps without summer humidity
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏄, sports fans ⚾, budget travelers 💰

Tampa has leveled up in recent years. It’s still sunny and chill, but now there’s a food scene, walkable neighborhoods, and a vibe that’s more creative than chaotic.

Ybor City is that weird-cool neighborhood you text your friends about. Picture this: colorful historic buildings from the old cigar factory days, actual roosters strutting down the streets like they pay rent, and this perfect mix of clubs and breweries. Over in Water Street, you’ll find Tampa’s polished side with river views, rooftop bars, and locals walking the waterfront at golden hour. And even if you’ve never watched a hockey game, a night at a Lightning home match might convert you on the spot.

Spirit often drops fares under $60 roundtrip if you pack light. Southwest runs frequent sales and includes checked bags, which is ideal if you’re bringing beach gear. 

• Read Next: Affordable Places to Fly from Tampa

13. Charleston to Charlotte ($74–$100 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 55 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: American, United (multiple daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌷 and September to October 🍁 for outdoor activities
• 🏆 Perfect for: Urban adventurers 🏙️, brewery hoppers 🍺, arts enthusiasts 🎨

Charlotte has traded its banking-only rep for serious cool points. Just under an hour from Charleston, this fast-growing city offers distinct neighborhoods, a booming food and beer scene, and outdoor spots that make inland life feel like a solid move.

NoDa is the city’s creative soul, packed with murals, converted mills, breweries, and music venues. In Plaza Midwood, you’ll find a quirky mix of dive bars, tattoo shops, and cocktail lounges that keep the vibe unpolished in the best way. For big adventure, the U.S. National Whitewater Center has rapids, zip lines, and climbing walls just minutes from downtown.

Fall absolutely wins for Charlotte visits when the brutal summer humidity disappears and perfect hoodie weather settles in. For flights, American Airlines runs frequent shuttle-like service with roundtrip fares often under $85. 

By the time you head home, you’ll get why so many people are calling the ‘Queen City’ home.

• Read Next: Budget-Friendly Destinations to Fly from Charlotte

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

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

Why is Charleston a popular starting point for budget travelers?

Charleston, with its well-connected airport and strategic location on the East Coast, serves as an ideal launchpad for many destinations. The Charleston International Airport (CHS) hosts a variety of airlines, often offering competitive deals. Additionally, its growing popularity as a tourist destination means airlines are keen to provide more routes and better prices.

Which airlines typically offer the cheapest flights from Charleston?

Airlines such as Southwest, Spirit, and Frontier are often associated with budget-friendly fares from Charleston. These carriers frequently roll out promotions and deals, especially during off-peak seasons. However, it’s always a good idea to compare prices across multiple airlines, as occasional discounts can pop up anywhere.

How can I ensure I’m getting the best deal on my flight from Charleston?

To secure the best deals, consider booking your flight well in advance and being flexible with your travel dates. Utilizing fare comparison websites and setting up price alerts can also help you stay informed about price drops. Additionally, traveling during off-peak seasons or mid-week can often yield cheaper fares.

Are international destinations affordable from Charleston?

Absolutely! While Charleston primarily offers domestic flights, there are several international destinations that are surprisingly affordable. Direct flights to certain Canadian and Caribbean destinations, for instance, can be quite budget-friendly. Moreover, with one-stop connections, many other international locales become accessible without a hefty price tag.

What flies out of CHS?

Charleston International Airport (CHS) in South Carolina serves as a hub for various airlines that offer flights to numerous destinations within the United States and some international locations. Major airlines like American Airlines, Delta, Southwest, and United operate out of CHS, offering flights to cities such as Atlanta, New York, Dallas, Chicago, and more.

The airport also offers seasonal flights to destinations like Toronto in Canada and some Caribbean locations. However, the availability of routes can vary depending on the season and other factors like demand and airline scheduling.

How does the time of year affect flight prices from Charleston?

Flight prices can vary significantly based on the season. For instance, popular vacation spots might see a surge in prices during peak tourist seasons. Conversely, during shoulder seasons (the period between peak and off-peak), you can often find reduced fares. It’s always beneficial to research your specific destination to understand its peak times and plan accordingly.

Are last-minute deals from Charleston a good idea?

While last-minute deals can sometimes offer significant savings, they’re a bit of a gamble. If you have flexible travel plans and are open to various destinations, scouting for last-minute deals can be fruitful. However, if you have specific dates and places in mind, booking in advance is generally more reliable and cost-effective.

How does Charleston compare to other departure cities in terms of flight affordability?

Charleston, given its growing popularity and expanding airport, often offers competitive fares, especially to destinations along the East Coast. While larger hubs like Atlanta or New York might have a broader range of flights, Charleston’s deals, especially on direct routes, are frequently on par with these major airports. Plus, the convenience and charm of Charleston can make the overall travel experience more pleasant.