13 Affordable Places to Fly From Fort Lauderdale for Your Next Trip

356

Finding cheap flights from Fort Lauderdale isn’t as hard as you might think. I’ve spent countless hours combing through flight deals from FLL, and let me tell you, there are some serious bargains if you know where to look. While your friends are stuck doom scrolling through $1000 tickets, you could be planning a weekend in Cartagena’s gorgeous walled city or exploring Mexico City’s incredible food markets.

I’ve tracked down some of the best places in Fort Lauderdale to catch affordable flights that actually lead somewhere exciting. Just last month, I snagged a $175 roundtrip to Medellin, where the eternal spring weather and stunning mountain views make the 3-hour flight totally worth it. Here are 13 destinations that prove you don’t need to drain your savings for an amazing trip.

#1 tip for finding cheap flights from Fort Lauderdale

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. FLL) 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 $475 roundtrip fare from Miami to Madrid. 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%!

Top Cheap Flight Destinations from Fort Lauderdale

Looking for the best flight destinations from Fort Lauderdale? Fly to Atlanta for a mix of Southern charm, rich history, and vibrant city life. Visit Orlando, home to world-famous theme parks and family-friendly attractions. Escape to Nassau, where stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters offer the perfect tropical getaway. Experience Newark, a gateway to New York City with diverse dining, cultural attractions, and scenic waterfront views. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or city excitement, these are some of the top destinations from Fort Lauderdale.

---

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. Fort Lauderdale to Atlanta ($55–$120 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, Delta, Southwest (15+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March-May & September-November 🍂 for pleasant temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Urban explorers 🏙️, food enthusiasts 🍗, culture seekers 🎭

Atlanta is where Southern hospitality meets big city energy. This sprawling metropolis has neighborhoods that feel like completely different cities, street art that will blow your mind, and food so good you’ll contemplate relocating permanently.

The BeltLine is this awesome urban trail that connects the coolest neighborhoods in the city where you’ll find locals jogging, biking, and hopping between breweries and food halls all day long. Little Five Points gives you those alternative vibes with vintage shops and dive bars where you might spot a famous rapper casually hanging out. 

Flying from Fort Lauderdale to Atlanta is packed with options, making it one of the easiest weekend getaways from South Florida. Spirit frequently offers fares under $60 one-way if you can travel with just a backpack, while Delta dominates with the most flights since Atlanta is their biggest hub worldwide. Spring brings perfect weather and blooming dogwoods throughout the city, while fall offers comfortable temperatures without summer’s brutal humidity. 

2. Fort Lauderdale to Orlando ($37–$95 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, JetBlue, Southwest (10+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: January-April & September-November 🎢 for milder temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Theme park enthusiasts 🎢, family vacations 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, budget travelers 💰

Orlando is where South Florida beach vibes transform into pure theme park magic. This entertainment capital packs more attractions per square mile than practically anywhere else on earth.

Disney Springs offers shopping, dining, and entertainment without any park admission fees, making it perfect for a taste of Disney magic without the full price tag. Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando gives you a surprisingly chill urban oasis with swan-shaped paddle boats and a weekly farmers market surrounded by the city skyline. January through March brings perfect temperatures in the low to mid-70s, ideal for exploring parks without the summer heat that can make waiting in lines feel like torture.

This super short flight is ridiculously cheap thanks to intense competition between airlines. Spirit leads the pack with fares that sometimes drop below $40 roundtrip during their Tuesday sales if you can travel with just a personal item.

January through March brings perfect temperatures for outdoor activities, while late September and October offers smaller crowds and special seasonal events like Halloween Horror Nights and Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival.

• Read Next: Best Airports in Orlando

3. Fort Lauderdale to Nassau ($100–$180 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour
• 🛫 Airlines: Bahamasair, Silver Airways, JetBlue (10+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December-April 🌴 for perfect beach weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, day-trippers ⛵, budget travelers 💰

Nassau is basically a Caribbean paradise that’s closer to Fort Lauderdale than Miami is to Key West. This Bahamian capital delivers those postcard-worthy beaches and crystal clear waters without the long-haul flight or massive price tag.

Cable Beach stretches for miles with perfect white sand and water so clear you can see fish swimming around your ankles. Downtown Nassau gives you colorful colonial architecture, duty-free shopping, and the famous Queen’s Staircase carved directly into limestone for a killer cardio workout with even better views at the top. 

This quick hop from Fort Lauderdale makes it one of the easiest international getaways possible. Bahamasair and Silver Airways battle for the lowest fares, with prices occasionally dropping below $120 roundtrip during off-peak times like early December or May. The flight is so short (barely 35 minutes in the air) that it’s actually perfect for day trips if you book the first flight out and last flight back.

4. Fort Lauderdale to Newark ($49–$130 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, United, JetBlue (15+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-June & September-October 🍂 for mild weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: NYC visitors 🗽, urban explorers 🚶, budget travelers 💰

Newark is your budget-friendly secret weapon for visiting New York City. This airport is actually closer to parts of Manhattan than JFK or LaGuardia, putting you just a 20-minute train ride from skyscrapers, Broadway shows, and the best pizza on the planet.

Liberty State Park gives you those million-dollar views of the Manhattan skyline and Statue of Liberty that you see in movies, but without the crowds of tourists you’d find at similar viewpoints in NYC. The Ironbound District is packed with Brazilian and Portuguese restaurants where you can feast on incredible food for half what you’d pay across the river in New York. 

This route is packed with flight options. Spirit dominates with the cheapest fares, sometimes dropping below $60 one-way if you can travel with just a personal item and book during their Tuesday sales. JetBlue costs more but gives you free WiFi and more legroom. 

May and early June offer perfect temperatures in the 70s without the summer humidity and tourist hordes, while October brings gorgeous fall colors and ideal walking weather.

• Read Next: Cheap Flights from Newark

5. Fort Lauderdale to Dallas ($101–$170 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 3 hours
• 🛫 Airlines: American, Spirit, Southwest (12+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March-May & September-November 🍂 for pleasant temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Urban cowboys 🤠, food enthusiasts 🍖, sports fans 🏈

Dallas is where big city luxury meets Texas-sized personality. This sprawling metroplex offers way more than just cowboy stereotypes with world-class museums, incredible food, and neighborhoods that feel like completely different cities.

Deep Ellum is the city’s historic entertainment district with live music venues, street art, and trendy restaurants housed in converted industrial buildings. For culture that doesn’t involve cowboy hats, the Dallas Museum of Art is completely free and actually impressive, while the Klyde Warren Park is this cool green space built over a freeway where food trucks gather daily.

American Airlines runs this route since Dallas is their main hub, but budget carriers like Spirit frequently drop fares below $120 roundtrip if you can travel light and book a few weeks ahead. Southwest costs more upfront but includes two free checked bags which might actually save you money in the end. 

Spring and fall bring perfect 70-80 degree days ideal for exploring outdoor attractions like the Dallas Arboretum or catching a Cowboys game at their massive stadium.

6. Fort Lauderdale to Chicago ($105–$185 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 3 hours
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, United, American, Southwest (15+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-October 🌆 for outdoor activities and lake fun
• 🏆 Perfect for: Architecture fans 🏙️, food lovers 🍕, big city explorers 🚶

Chicago is that perfect mix of big city energy with Midwest friendliness. This place serves up world-class everything from architecture to food without the attitude or prices you’d find in coastal cities.

Millennium Park is home to the famous Bean (officially called Cloud Gate but literally no one calls it that) where you’ll definitely take the same tourist selfie as everyone else. The Riverwalk offers that perfect urban escape with bars, restaurants, and boat tours along the water. 

Flights stay surprisingly affordable with Spirit leading the pack on budget options, frequently offering fares under $130 roundtrip if you can pack light and book during their Tuesday sales. Southwest costs more upfront but includes two free checked bags, perfect if you’re bringing winter gear in colder months. May and early October hit that sweet spot with pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists than summer, plus hotel rates tend to be 20-30% lower. 

• Read Next: Cheapest Flights from Chicago

7. Fort Lauderdale to Baltimore ($59–$125 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, Southwest, JetBlue (10+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-June & September-October 🍂 for pleasant weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: History buffs 🏛️, seafood lovers 🦀, harbor explorers ⚓

Baltimore is where gritty meets pretty with its historic harbor, quirky neighborhoods, and seafood that will ruin all other seafood for you. This underrated city offers authentic experiences without the tourist crowds of its neighbor Washington, D.C.

Inner Harbor is the postcard spot with its waterfront promenade and attractions like the National Aquarium which is actually worth the admission price. Fells Point serves up cobblestone streets lined with pubs where locals have been drinking since the 1700s. 

The best time to visit is May when the city bursts with perfect spring weather in the 70s. September and early October also bring comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists, plus special events like the city’s seafood festivals.

Spirit dominates this route with the cheapest fares, sometimes dropping below $70 roundtrip if you can travel with just a personal item and book during their frequent sales. Southwest costs more but includes two free checked bags and flies into the convenient main terminal. 

• Read Next: Cheapest Flights from Baltimore

8. Fort Lauderdale to Denver ($177–$250 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: United, Southwest, Frontier, Spirit (10+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-October 🏔️ for outdoor adventures and April for skiing deals ⛷️
• 🏆 Perfect for: Mountain lovers 🏔️, craft beer enthusiasts 🍺, outdoor adventurers 🥾

Denver is where you trade beach vibes for mountain highs. This mile-high city sits at the base of the Rockies with amazing weather, outdoor activities for days, and a downtown scene that’s seriously blown up in recent years.

Red Rocks Amphitheatre is this incredible outdoor concert venue carved into massive red rock formations where the acoustics are so perfect you’ll question why anyone builds indoor venues at all. RiNo (River North Art District) is packed with street art, breweries, and food halls in converted warehouses where you can sample dozens of local beers in a single afternoon. Summer brings perfect hiking weather with temperatures in the 80s during the day but much cooler evenings, making it ideal for exploring nearby spots like Rocky Mountain National Park.

This cross-country route sees some serious competition between airlines. Frontier and Spirit battle for the budget crowd with basic fares sometimes dropping below $200 roundtrip if you can travel light and book 6-8 weeks ahead. 

9. Fort Lauderdale to Philadelphia ($78–$160 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, American, JetBlue (12+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-June & September-October 🍂 for pleasant weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: History buffs 🏛️, food lovers 🧀, urban explorers 🚶

Philadelphia is where American history meets epic food scene meets underrated coolness. This city packs serious personality with neighborhoods that each feel like their own little world.

Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell are the obvious tourist spots, but the real Philly is in places like Reading Terminal Market where you can sample everything from Pennsylvania Dutch baked goods to authentic cheesesteaks under one roof. Fishtown has transformed from working-class neighborhood to hipster haven with craft breweries, indie music venues, and amazing restaurants lining streets still dotted with old row houses. 

This route is packed with flight options making it one of the easiest weekend getaways from South Florida. Spirit consistently offers the lowest base fares, sometimes dropping below $90 roundtrip if you can travel with just a personal item and book during their Tuesday sales. American and JetBlue cost more but provide a much better experience.

10. Fort Lauderdale to San Juan ($105–$190 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, JetBlue, Southwest (10+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December-April 🌴 for perfect tropical weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach enthusiasts 🏖️, food lovers 🍽️, history buffs 🏛️

San Juan delivers Caribbean paradise without needing a passport or currency exchange. This Puerto Rican capital combines incredible beaches with colonial history and a food scene that will ruin your perception of Latin food forever.

Old San Juan is packed with blue cobblestone streets and colorful buildings from the 1500s that make it look like Europe somehow got dropped in the Caribbean. La Factoria is this multi-room bar that’s constantly ranked among the world’s best and serves cocktails that’ll make you question why you ever order basic rum and cokes. 

Flight deals on this route are ridiculously good with Spirit regularly offering fares below $150 roundtrip if you can travel with just a backpack and book during their Tuesday sales. JetBlue costs more but gives you a much better experience with free WiFi and snacks. December and January bring perfect weather without the extreme humidity of summer, plus special events like the San Sebastian Street Festival that transforms Old San Juan into one massive party. 

11. Fort Lauderdale to Nashville ($88–$150 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, Southwest, American (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-June & September-November 🎸 for pleasant temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Music lovers 🎸, food enthusiasts 🍗, weekend revelers 🎉

Nashville is basically a giant playground for adults who love live music, comfort food, and day drinking. This Tennessee capital delivers incredible tunes, Southern hospitality, and a food scene that goes way beyond hot chicken.

Broadway is the famous strip where neon-lit honky-tonks blast live country music from morning till night, while neighborhoods like East Nashville offer a more hipster vibe with vintage shops, craft cocktail bars, and restaurants where locals actually hang out. The Gulch gives you that perfect Instagram moment with the famous “What Lifts You” wing mural and upscale eateries housed in former industrial buildings. May brings perfect temperatures in the 70s and frequent outdoor concerts, making it ideal for exploring attractions.

This route stays surprisingly affordable with Spirit frequently offering fares under $100 roundtrip if you can travel with just a personal item and book a few weeks ahead. Southwest costs more upfront but includes two free checked bags which are clutch if you’re bringing home bottles of local bourbon or vintage finds. October offers another perfect window with comfortable temperatures, changing leaves in nearby parks, and special events like the Americana Music Festival. 

12. Fort Lauderdale to Cancun ($103–$195 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, JetBlue, American (15+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April 🌴 for perfect beach weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, all-inclusive fans 🍹, ancient ruin explorers 🏛️

Cancun is where you go when you want Florida vibes but with clearer water and cheaper drinks. This Mexican hotspot delivers that perfect combo of white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and nightlife that goes until sunrise.

Hotel Zone is a 14-mile strip of beaches and resorts where the Caribbean Sea meets the Gulf of Mexico with water so blue it looks photoshopped. Isla Mujeres offers a more laid-back vibe with golf cart transportation and fewer crowds just a quick ferry ride away. 

This short hop from Fort Lauderdale is ridiculously cheap thanks to constant competition between airlines. Spirit runs multiple daily flights with fares sometimes dropping below $120 roundtrip during their Tuesday sales if you can travel with just a backpack. January through early April offers perfect weather but slightly lower prices than the December holiday peak. 

13. Fort Lauderdale to Havana ($199–$275 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour
• 🛫 Airlines: JetBlue, Southwest, American (restrictions apply)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April 🌴 for perfect tropical weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: History buffs 🏛️, classic car enthusiasts 🚗, music lovers 🎵

Havana is where your Instagram feed gets a serious upgrade. This Cuban time warp sits just 90 miles from Florida but feels like a different planet with vintage Chevys, revolutionary history, and mojitos that make the ones back home taste like mouthwash.

Fábrica de Arte Cubano is this mind-blowing cultural space housed in an old cooking oil factory where art gallery meets nightclub meets concert venue meets film theater. Callejón de Hamel offers this wild Afro-Cuban art alley where every Sunday the street explodes with rumba music and impromptu dance performances. March is perfect for visiting with warm but not sweltering temperatures and minimal rain, plus it’s right before the Easter rush when prices jump.

The flight from Fort Lauderdale takes less time than your morning commute, but travel restrictions mean you’ll need to plan ahead. JetBlue typically offers the most comfortable experience on this route, though prices rarely drop below $220 roundtrip even during sales. November and early December bring perfect weather with fewer tourists, making it easier to get into the city’s best restaurants.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Cheapest Flights from Fort Lauderdale

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

What are some of the cheapest destinations from Fort Lauderdale?

Fort Lauderdale, with its strategic location in Florida, offers a plethora of affordable flight options. Popular budget-friendly destinations from Fort Lauderdale often include domestic cities such as Atlanta, New Orleans, and Nashville. Additionally, for those seeking international escapes, destinations like Cancun in Mexico, Nassau in the Bahamas, and Kingston in Jamaica frequently feature competitive fares. It’s always advisable to monitor flight deals and utilize fare comparison tools to secure the best prices.

Which airlines offer the best deals from Fort Lauderdale?

From Fort Lauderdale, several airlines are known for offering competitive fares. Spirit Airlines, a low-cost carrier, often provides some of the most affordable options for various domestic and international routes. JetBlue Airways and Southwest Airlines are also popular choices, frequently offering promotions and deals from Fort Lauderdale. For international flights, especially to the Caribbean and Latin America, airlines like Norwegian Air and Copa Airlines might have attractive offers. However, the best deals can vary based on the season, promotions, and specific travel dates, so it’s beneficial to regularly check airline websites and fare comparison platforms.

How can I find the cheapest flights from Fort Lauderdale?

To find the cheapest flights from Fort Lauderdale, consider booking during off-peak seasons, being flexible with your travel dates, and regularly checking airline websites or flight comparison tools for promotions and discounts. You can also consider nearby airports and you can travel during off-peak times.

Are international flights from Fort Lauderdale affordable?

Yes, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is known for offering affordable international flights. The airport serves as a hub for several low-cost carriers, which often provide competitive fares to international destinations. Destinations in the Caribbean, Central America, and South America are particularly well-served from Fort Lauderdale, with numerous direct flights available. Additionally, the presence of multiple airlines operating out of Fort Lauderdale creates competition, which can lead to more attractive fares for travelers. It’s always advisable to compare prices, book in advance, and remain flexible with travel dates to secure the best deals.

Is it cheaper to fly from Fort Lauderdale or Miami?

The cost of flying from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport versus Miami International Airport can vary based on several factors. This includes the destination, airline, time of booking, and season.

Generally, Fort Lauderdale International Airport is a hub for several low-cost carriers. As a result, they can offer more competitive fares, especially for domestic and certain international routes. On the other hand, Miami International Airport serves a broader range of international destinations and major carriers, which might offer competitive deals on specific routes.

It’s essential to compare prices from both airports for your specific travel dates and destination to determine which offers the better deal. Additionally, consider other factors like proximity, parking costs, and airport amenities when making a decision.

How early should I book to get the cheapest flights from Fort Lauderdale?

Typically, booking several weeks to a few months in advance can yield better prices. However, last-minute deals can also pop up, so it’s good to stay updated.

Do flight prices from Fort Lauderdale fluctuate throughout the year?

Yes, flight prices can vary based on seasons, holidays, and demand. For instance, flights to tropical destinations might be pricier during winter months due to higher demand.

Which Fort Lauderdale airport offers the most affordable flights?

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is the primary airport serving the Fort Lauderdale area. It is known for hosting several low-cost carriers, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking affordable flights. Airlines such as Southwest, Spirit, and JetBlue have a significant presence at Fort Lauderdale International Airport. As such, they often offer competitive fares, especially for domestic routes. If you’re looking for the most affordable flights from Fort Lauderdale, FLL is your primary and best option. Always remember to compare prices and check for deals or promotions when booking.

Are there direct flights available from Fort Lauderdale to these cheap destinations?

Yes, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport offers direct flights to many affordable destinations. The availability of direct flights largely depends on the specific destination in question. Low-cost carriers operating out of the international airport, such as Southwest, Spirit, and JetBlue, frequently offer non-stop services to various cities in the U.S. and some international locations. To determine if there are direct flights to your desired destination, it’s best to check with the specific airline or the airport’s official website. Additionally, using flight comparison tools or speaking with travel agents can also provide up-to-date information on non-stop routes from Fort Lauderdale.

How can I stay updated on the latest deals and cheapest flights from Fort Lauderdale?

Subscribing to airline newsletters, setting up flight alerts, and regularly checking flight comparison websites can help you stay informed about the latest deals and promotions.