9 Budget-Friendly Destinations to Fly from LAX in 2025

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I know LAX can be a total zoo, but it’s got one massive perk: some seriously cheap flights if you know where to look. After spending way too many hours comparing prices (and taking these trips myself), I’ve found deals that’ll make you forget about that airport traffic. Last month I snagged a $198 roundtrip to Cabo, where I spent mornings at Medano Beach watching cruise ships roll in.

Want to know the best places from LAX to visit without destroying your bank account? From slurping the most incredible ramen in Vancouver’s West End to catching sunset at Puerto Vallarta’s Malecon (both totally doable on a budget), these deals are too good to keep to myself. Here are 9 destinations where you can actually afford to fly in 2025, because amazing trips shouldn’t require a second mortgage.

My #1 tip for finding cheap flights from LAX

For the past 5 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to find amazing flight deals worldwide. All you have to do is enter your home airport (LAX) and where you want to go, and they’ll send you mistake fares and other fantastic flight deals. Just last year, I saved $3,000 thanks to their email alerts – including, most recently, a roundtrip flight to Iceland for under $300. Typically, I save $250+ roundtrip on selected flight routes. So I couldn’t recommend them more!

Scott’s has free and paid memberships. If you do a lot of traveling like me, the premium version pays for itself after one or two trips. I’ve saved SO much money compared to the $49 per year charge for the premium version. Don’t do much traveling yet? Check out the free version first to see what great deals are available.

Want to save money on airfare? Use my discount code Jon20 to save 20%!

Affordable Travel Destinations from LAX in 2025

Looking for affordable travel destinations from LAX? Visit Salt Lake City for its stunning mountain views, explore the beachside beauty of Cabo San Lucas, experience the live music scene in Austin, Texas, or admire the cultural attractions of Edmonton, Alberta. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or city life, these destinations offer budget-friendly escapes from LAX.

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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. LAX to Salt Lake City, Utah ($98–$140 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Delta, Southwest, United, Alaska (15+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to May 🌱 and September to October 🍁 for mild weather and fewer crowds
• 🏆 Perfect for: Outdoor enthusiasts 🏔️, ski bums ⛷️, history buffs 🏛️

Salt Lake City is basically an outdoor playground disguised as an urban center. The city has tons of hidden gems where you can hike, feast, and soak up stunning mountain views without the insane prices you’d pay in Colorado.

Temple Square is so impressive you can actually spend hours wandering the grounds, while the Utah State Capitol offers Instagram-worthy views of the entire valley. Big Cottonwood Canyon is just 20 minutes from downtown but feels like you’ve driven hours into the wilderness, with alpine lakes and waterfalls that don’t even look real!

May brings perfect hiking weather with wildflowers everywhere, while September delivers golden aspens against blue skies. For the best flight deals, fly mid-week with Southwest or Alaska, or spend a bit extra for Delta which uses Salt Lake City as a major hub.

• Read Next: Cabin Rentals in Utah

2. LAX to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico ($234–$280 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Alaska, Delta, American, Spirit (12+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to June 🌴 and October to November 🌊 for perfect weather and fewer tourists
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, party people 🎉, luxury seekers 💎

Cabo San Lucas is where desert meets ocean in the most dramatic way possible. This sun-drenched paradise at the tip of Baja California has tons of iconic spots where you can swim, party, and soak up views without the overwhelming crowds you’d find in Cancun.

The famous Arch at Land’s End is as jaw-dropping as the photos, and yes, it’s one of those rare landmarks that actually lives up to the hype. Medano Beach hits the sweet spot between relaxation and activity, with calm waters, jet skis for rent, and beach bars where the margaritas flow all day. Go beyond the main strip and you’ll find quiet snorkeling coves, locally loved taquerias in San José del Cabo, and scenic spots like Chileno Bay that still feel low-key.

For the best deals, fly in May or early June when you’ll get perfect 80-degree days, uncrowded beaches, and hotel rates nearly half of peak season. Alaska Airlines consistently offers the best value with their “Saver” fares often dipping below $250 roundtrip. If you’re flexible with dates, Spirit sometimes drops fares to $199, though they’ll charge extra for literally everything including water.

• Read Next: Cheapest Places to Fly Into in Mexico

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3. Los Angeles to Austin, Texas ($177–$220 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 3 hours
• 🛫 Airlines: American, Southwest, United, Delta (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for ideal temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Music lovers 🎸, foodies 🌮, creative types 🎨

Austin is where hipster meets cowboy in the best possible way. This vibrant oasis in the heart of Texas has tons of iconic spots where you can eat, rock out, and soak up culture without the pretension you’d find in bigger cities.

The famous South Congress avenue is so packed with unique shops, street art, and food trucks you can actually spend a whole day just exploring this single street. Barton Springs Pool is a natural limestone swimming hole right in the middle of downtown where locals escape the heat with crystal-clear 68-degree water year-round. Catch live music on Sixth Street or Rainey Street where historic houses have been transformed into the coolest bars you’ll ever visit!

For flights, Southwest consistently offers the best value with their two free checked bags policy, while Spirit sometimes runs flash sales as low as $148 roundtrip if you’re willing to fly with just a personal item. March brings perfect weather plus the famous SXSW festival, but expect flight prices to double. October offers the same perfect temps without the crowds and premium prices.

4. LAX to Edmonton, Alberta, Canada ($195–$250 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Air Canada, WestJet, Alaska, United (5+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to August 🌞 and December to March ❄️ for seasonal attractions
• 🏆 Perfect for: Nature lovers 🌲, festival goers 🎭, winter adventurers ⛷️

Edmonton is one of those rare Canadian cities that actually shines in both summer and winter. This northern gem is packed with unique attractions where you can hike, eat, and experience authentic Canadian culture without the crowds you’d run into in Vancouver or Toronto.

North America’s largest mall isn’t just about shopping. West Edmonton Mall doubles as an indoor amusement park with a full-size waterpark, ice rink, and roller coasters. Just 35 minutes away, Elk Island National Park lets you spot wild bison roaming free in a beautifully preserved prairie setting. In summer, the city lives up to its nickname as Festival City, hosting over 50 events including food, music, and cultural celebrations. Come winter, it swaps lawn chairs for snow boots with ice castles in Hawrelak Park and surprisingly easy northern lights viewing right from the city.

Budget travelers should watch for Flair and Swoop flash sales, with fares often dipping below $200 roundtrip. Air Canada offers the most reliable year-round service, with Tuesday and Wednesday departures usually scoring the best value.

5. LAX to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania ($149–$190 roundtrip)

•  ✈️ Flight Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: American, Spirit, Frontier, United (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌼 and September to October 🍁 for pleasant weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: History buffs 🏛️, food enthusiasts 🧀, art lovers 🎨

Philadelphia is where history meets killer food scene. This city lets you soak up American history without the insane crowds and prices you’d find in New York or DC.

The city is super walkable, with cobblestone streets leading from iconic landmarks to hipster neighborhoods in minutes. One moment you’re standing where the Declaration of Independence was signed, the next you’re in a converted factory brewery in Fishtown with locals who’ll argue passionately about where to find the best sandwich in town

May is perfect for outdoor activities, while October gives you gorgeous fall colors in Fairmount Park. Flight-wise, Frontier runs crazy sales with fares under $150 roundtrip, but they’ll charge you for breathing if they could. American has the most non-stops, and flying Tuesday or Wednesday saves you like $30-40 compared to weekends.

6. LAX to Madrid, Spain ($539–$680 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 11 hours 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Iberia, American, Delta, Air Europa (5+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌺 and September to October 🍂 for ideal weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Art lovers 🎨, foodies 🍷, architecture enthusiasts 🏛️

Madrid is where European elegance meets non-stop energy. This Spanish capital gives you insane access to world-class art, food, and nightlife without the crazy prices of Paris or crowds of Barcelona.

The Golden Triangle of Art lets you hit three world-famous museums within walking distance. Retiro Park is basically the city’s outdoor living room where locals picnic and row boats on sunny days. Plaza Mayor gives you those classic European vibes with outdoor cafes and street performers everywhere. What truly makes Madrid special is its unique rhythm. This city literally doesn’t sleep, with dinner starting at 10pm and clubs going until sunrise.

When it comes to flights, May and early October deliver perfect 70-degree days with way fewer tourists clogging the museums. Iberia offers the most direct flights, with midweek departures saving you up to $100. Budget travelers should watch for deals from TAP Air Portugal and Air France. 

7. LAX to Kahului, Hawaii ($210–$270 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 5 hours 40 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Hawaiian, United, Alaska, Southwest (10+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to May 🌺 and September to November 🌴 for fewer crowds and better deals
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, adventure seekers 🚗, nature enthusiasts 🌋

Kahului is your gateway to Maui’s paradise. This central hub puts you in the perfect position to explore an island that delivers ridiculous natural beauty from black sand beaches to bamboo forests without feeling like a tourist factory.

Landing in Kahului means you’re just minutes from adventure in every direction. The legendary Road to Hana starts nearby, taking you on a winding coastal drive past waterfalls, jungle hikes, and beaches in every color. Head up to Haleakalā to stand above the clouds at sunrise in a massive volcanic crater that feels like another planet. The brilliance of flying into Kahului is how central it is. One minute you’re picking up your rental car at the airport, the next you’re completely alone on a hidden beach or hiking through ancient lava fields.

For the cheapest flights, look at late April through May when the island is lush from winter rains but summer crowds haven’t arrived. Southwest offers some of the best deals with their two free checked bags policy perfect for bringing snorkel gear and beach stuff. Hawaiian Airlines gives you the most authentic island experience starting the moment you board. 

8. LAX to Denver, Colorado ($138–$180 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Frontier, Southwest, United, Spirit (15+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌱 and September to October 🍁 for ideal weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Outdoor enthusiasts 🏔️, craft beer fans 🍺, cultural explorers 🎭

Denver is where mountain vibes meet urban cool. This mile-high city gives you incredible access to outdoor adventures while still delivering killer food, art, and brewery scenes that rival coastal cities.

Red Rocks isn’t just a concert venue. This natural amphitheater carved into massive red stone formations hosts the most epic live shows you’ll ever experience. Union Station transformed from a tired transit hub into the city’s coolest gathering spot with restaurants, bars, and boutiques inside a historic landmark. RiNo (River North Art District) explodes with street art, converted warehouses, and some of the best dining in the city. 

Frontier consistently offers the best deals with fares sometimes dipping below $100 roundtrip, though you’ll pay extra for everything including carry-ons. Southwest includes two free checked bags, perfect if you’re bringing outdoor gear. Look for May travel when you’ll get perfect spring temperatures, wildflowers blooming, and shoulder season hotel rates. 

• Read Next: Best Places to Visit in Colorado in Winter

9. LAX to Grand Cayman Islands ($373–$460 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 8 hours (with connection)
• 🛫 Airlines: American, Delta, United, Cayman Airways (via connections)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April 🌴 for dry season and May 🌞 for fewer crowds
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, divers 🤿, luxury travelers 💎

Grand Cayman is where Caribbean perfection actually exists. This island paradise delivers the clearest turquoise water you’ve ever seen without the party crowds of other tropical destinations.

Seven Mile Beach lives up to its reputation with powder-white sand that literally squeaks under your feet and water so clear you can see fish without even putting your face in. Stingray City lets you swim with dozens of wild stingrays in shallow, crystal clear water. The island’s famous blue iguanas roam freely in the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park. The true standout feature of Grand Cayman is its underwater world. The visibility often exceeds 100 feet, and dive sites like the USS Kittiwake wreck and Eden Rock are accessible right from shore, making this a diver’s dream destination.

For the best value, target May when high season crowds have left but hurricane season hasn’t started. You’ll find room rates nearly half off peak prices with perfect 80-degree days. Since there are no direct flights from LAX, look for connections through Miami or Atlanta. American Airlines typically offers the most frequent service, but Delta often runs flash sales that can drop fares below $400 roundtrip. 

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the cheapest places to fly from LAX.

Here are some common questions people ask about finding the cheapest flights from LAX. Note that there are many more cheap destinations from LAX, and you can find the occasional rare deals via travel sites like Scott’s Cheap Flights (Going).

What is the cheapest airport to fly out of Los Angeles?

Los Angeles International is the cheapest airport to fly in and out of Los Angeles. Located 12 miles from the center of LA, it is the 2nd busiest airport in the US. Many different airlines fly in and out of LAX. In total, there are over 60 airlines operating out of LAX, serving 87 domestic routes and 69 international ones. 

Delta, United, American, Alaskan, Horizon Air, and Great Lakes Airlines use LAX as a hub. Additionally, Southwest, Virgin America, Allegiant, Volaris, Air New Zealand, and Qantas have LA as a focus city. Because LAX is such an important airport for US travel, it’s easy to find cheap flights from LAX to just about anywhere you want to go. 

What is the best way to save money on flights from LAX?

When looking for the best flight deals from LAX, it’s important to have patience and flexibility. Amazing flight deals are never a guarantee. If your main goal is to find the cheapest flight from LAX, you may need patience while you wait for the right flight deal to hit your inbox. 

If you can be flexible about which days you fly, you can save a lot of money. For example, a Tuesday flight might be cheaper than a Friday one. Flying to a destination in the “off-season” can also save you money on airfare because of the “supply and demand” factor. 

When looking for the cheapest flight deals out of LA, you should always compare the prices of different airlines. Also, compare the cost of direct flights versus those with layovers. If you don’t mind longer travel times, consider booking a cheaper ticket with a layover or two. 

If you want to save money on flights from LAX, you must sign up for alerts from travel websites and airlines. This way, you can be notified of any sales and special deals. My personal favorite is Going. I’ve saved thousands of dollars on flights around the world with their email alerts. There’s truly no better way to find cheap flights! 

What are the most popular places to fly to from Los Angeles International Airport?

As the third-largest city in the US, LAX is a major airport for west coast travelers looking to book domestic and international flights. With over 60 airlines operating out of Los Angeles International Airport, flying anywhere in the world is possible. More than that, it’s possible to do it cheaply. 

Here are some of the most popular places to fly from LAX: 

• LA to Hawaii – thanks to its location on the west coast, Los Angeles is a popular starting point for flights to Hawaii. You can find direct flights from LAX to Hawaii for under $300 roundtrip. 
• LA to Bangkok – Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is a popular destination for west coast travelers because of its cheap flights and accommodations. You can find cheap international flights from LAX to Bangkok for as low as $700 roundtrip.
• LA to Cancun – While LA is known for its beaches, Cancun, Mexico, is a popular vacation getaway destination from California. You can find direct flights from LAX to Cancun for as low as $300 roundtrip. 
• LA to Tokyo – Tokyo, Japan, is a popular travel destination easily accessible from LAX. While the city can be expensive, you can find flights from LAX to Tokyo for as low as $750 roundtrip. 

What are the cheapest flights from LAX?

Cheap LA flights are everywhere and are easy to find with the help of travel websites like Going, Skyscanner, and Hopper. There are many cheap destinations reachable from LAX. Some of the cheapest domestic flights from LAX include the Hawaiian Islands, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Denver, and Philadelphia. If you’re willing to travel further, popular international destinations like Cabo San Lucas, Madrid, and Grand Cayman Islands can also be affordable options.

Where is the cheapest place in Europe to fly into from LAX?

If you’re in Los Angeles and dreaming of a European getaway, you’re in a great position. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is a major hub with numerous flights to Europe, and with a bit of savvy searching, you can find some fantastic deals.

One of the most affordable European destinations from LAX is often Dublin, Ireland. Known for its friendly locals, historic landmarks, and vibrant pub culture, Dublin is a fantastic gateway to the rest of Europe. Plus, Ireland’s budget airline, Ryanair, offers cheap flights to numerous other European cities, making Dublin a great starting point for a multi-city trip.

Another destination to consider is London. As one of the world’s major travel hubs, there are often sales and discounted fares available. From London, you can easily and affordably reach other European destinations via the UK’s extensive rail network or budget airlines.

For the best deals, consider using a service like Dollar Flight Club. They constantly monitor flight prices and will send you an alert when they find a significant discount on flights from your chosen departure airport, like LAX.

Is it cheaper to book a round-trip ticket instead of one way out of LAX?

There are some key strategies to consider when searching for the cheapest places to fly from LAX. Depending on your travel dates, destination, and airline, costs can vary between booking roundtrip and two one-way tickets. 

In some cases, booking a round-trip ticket can save you money. Airlines often offer discounted fares for round-trip tickets, especially if you book well in advance. However, it’s important to compare both options’ prices to see which is the best deal for your specific itinerary. Compare the data from travel websites and airlines to see where to get the better deal. 

What are the cheapest airports to fly out of near LA?

Los Angeles is a bustling hub for air travel, with several airports in and around the city that offer a wide range of flight options. While Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the largest and most well-known, there are other airports nearby that can sometimes offer cheaper flights, depending on your destination.

Long Beach Airport (LGB) is a smaller airport located to the south of downtown Los Angeles. It’s a focus city for JetBlue, which often has competitive fares to various destinations across the U.S. Plus, the smaller size of the airport can make for a less stressful travel experience.

John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County is another option. It’s a bit further from downtown LA, but it serves a number of airlines and might have cheaper flights depending on your destination. It’s particularly worth checking if you’re heading to destinations in the western U.S.

Ontario International Airport (ONT) is located to the east of Los Angeles and is another good option to check. It’s a focus city for low-cost carrier Frontier Airlines, and also serves other major airlines like Delta and American.

Finally, don’t forget about Burbank’s Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR). It’s a favorite among locals due to its convenience and ease of use, and serves a number of domestic destinations.

What is the longest non-stop flight from LAX?

Are you looking to take your vacation farther with the longest direct flight from Los Angeles? You’re in the right place. The longest non-stop flight from LAX is to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Flying from LAX to the Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) is a distance of 8,390 miles. This flight, run by the UAE’s Etihad Airways, will take you 16.5 hours. 

What can you do on a 16.5-hour flight? Well, you could get double the recommended sleep for an average adult. You can also watch Gone with the Wind four times back-to-back.

While not exactly the cheapest international flight from LAX, a direct flight to Abu Dhabi will set you back about $1,000 or more for a direct flight.