Where Can I Fly for $250?
If you have a travel budget of $250, you might be surprised by how many destinations you can explore. With the rise of budget airlines, seasonal flight sales, and competitive pricing on popular domestic routes, flying for under $250 has become easier than ever. Here are some of the best places you can fly to for $250 or less.
1. Major U.S. Cities Under $250
Thanks to heavy airline competition, these large metropolitan areas often offer round-trip flights for under $250:
- Las Vegas, Nevada – One of the most affordable tourist destinations due to high flight volume.
- Orlando, Florida – A top budget choice thanks to theme-park traffic and frequent sales.
- Chicago, Illinois – Both O’Hare and Midway airports often have low-cost flights.
- Denver, Colorado – A major hub with consistently competitive prices.
- Dallas, Texas – Plenty of airline options keep prices low.
- Atlanta, Georgia – One of the biggest hubs in the U.S., often offering fares under $200.
2. Popular Beach Destinations
If you’re dreaming of sand and sunshine, many beach cities offer round-trip flights for $250 or less:
- Tampa, Florida
- Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
- San Diego, California (during sales)
- Charleston, South Carolina
3. Adventure & Outdoor Hotspots
For those who love hiking, national parks, or outdoor escapes, you can often find affordable flights to:
- Salt Lake City, Utah – Gateway to Zion, Arches, and Bryce Canyon.
- Phoenix, Arizona – Close to the Grand Canyon and stunning desert landscapes.
- Boise, Idaho – A rising outdoor adventure hub.
- Portland, Oregon – Lush hikes, waterfalls, and coastal access.
4. Fun and Culture-Oriented Cities
Many culture-rich U.S. cities often fall within the $250 budget range:
- New Orleans, Louisiana – Music, food, and history without the high airfare.
- Nashville, Tennessee – A top pick for music lovers.
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Boston, Massachusetts (from East Coast cities)
- Washington, D.C.
5. Flights Under $250 With Budget Airlines
Low-cost carriers make it easy to find flights under $250 even to far-away cities. Airlines to check include:
- Southwest Airlines
- Spirit Airlines
- Frontier Airlines
- Allegiant Air
- JetBlue (during sales)
These airlines often run limited-time deals with flights as low as $29–$99 one way.
6. How to Find Flights for $250 or Less
Here are the best ways to secure a flight within your budget:
- Use Google Flights with flexible dates.
- Check “Everywhere” searches on Skyscanner.
- Set price alerts for your chosen destinations.
- Fly mid-week for cheaper fares.
- Watch for airline flash sales (especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays).
- Check alternate airports near your city.
- Travel during off-peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
With a budget of $250, you have plenty of exciting travel options across the United States. From beaches and big cities to outdoor adventure spots, affordable flights are available year-round if you know where to look and book strategically.
Happy exploring!
