Flying is the fastest way to cover long distances in the U.S., and if you book early, it does not have to be expensive. Domestic flights are common here, and many Americans fly the way people in other countries take trains. Understanding how U.S. airlines and airports work will help you travel with less stress and fewer surprises.
Choosing an Airline
The U.S. has two tiers of airlines.
- Full-service carriers like Delta, United, Alaska, and American Airlines include checked bags and seat selection in most fares, and operate out of major hub airports.
- Budget carriers like Southwest, JetBlue, Spirit, and Frontier often have lower base prices but charge separately for things like carry-on bags, seat assignments, and checked luggage. Always compare the total cost, not just the ticket price, before booking a budget airline.
Most airlines have mobile apps that let you check in, view your boarding pass, get real-time gate updates, and receive delay or cancellation alerts. Download your airline’s app before your trip.
To access fares for these airlines, use the airlines’ websites for the best rates or call the customer service numbers.
Please note: Some discount tickets purchased through these companies may be non-refundable. You also may have to pay a fee if you want to make any changes to your itinerary, and you may have to pay for carry-on luggage. Make sure to ask when purchasing the ticket if there are penalties for making changes.
Getting Through the Airport
Plan to arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight. U.S. airports range from small regional terminals to massive multi-terminal hubs, so give yourself time to navigate.
At the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) security checkpoint, you will need to:
- Show your passport and boarding pass
- Remove your shoes, belt, and jacket
- Take laptops and large electronics out of your bag
- Place all liquids in containers of 3.4 oz (100 ml) or smaller inside one clear, quart-sized plastic bag (this is called the 3-1-1 rule)
If something in your bag triggers a scan, TSA agents may ask to search it. This is normal. Stay calm, follow their instructions, and you will be through quickly. Security lines can be long during holidays and peak travel times, so budget extra time during those periods.
Connecting Flights and Delays
If your itinerary includes a layover, make sure you have enough time between flights, especially if you need to change terminals. At large airports like Atlanta (ATL), Chicago O’Hare (ORD), or Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), moving between terminals can take 20 to 30 minutes. A layover of at least 90 minutes is a safe minimum for domestic connections.
Flight delays and cancellations are fairly common in the U.S. If your flight is significantly delayed or canceled, check your airline’s app for rebooking options. You can also speak to a gate agent, but the app is usually faster. Familiarize yourself with your airline’s delay and cancellation policies before you fly so you know what you are entitled to.
Air Passes for Multi-City Travel
If you are planning to visit several cities during your time in the U.S., an air pass can be a cost-effective alternative to booking individual flights. There are two main types:
- Alliance passes: Airline alliances like Star Alliance and oneworld offer multi-flight packages for international visitors at discounted rates. These are designed specifically for travelers visiting from abroad and can be a good deal if you plan to fly between several cities.
- Subscription passes: Some budget carriers like Frontier and Alaska Airlines offer flat-rate monthly or seasonal passes for unlimited domestic flights.
Read the fine print carefully before purchasing any pass. Common restrictions include blackout dates (days you cannot fly), last-minute-only booking windows, and extra fees for baggage and seat selection. Compare the pass price against what you would pay booking flights individually to make sure it actually saves you money.
