The Popular Airport Out West That Has Some Of The Cheapest Flights In The US

If you've searched for flights lately, you know how fast prices can soar. From one day to the next, a plane ticket can cost significantly more, and that's without calculating baggage fees and seat selection. It's safe to say that air travel has become more expensive in recent years. For many travelers, a simple domestic flight can cost hundreds, further stretching their budget, especially when flying out of major airports. But, for savvy individuals willing to do a bit of legwork, there are a few airports offering serious savings.

San Jose Mineta International Airport, or SJC, is a lesser-known West Coast hub. And, according to Travel and Leisure, it is also one of the most affordable airports to fly out of in the United States. With an average seat price of $404.30, SJC stands out as a smart alternative to its more popular neighbor San Francisco International. Whether you're looking for domestic or international flights, flying out of San Jose could help you keep more money in your wallet.

San Jose Mineta International airport might not have the same name recognition as San Francisco International, but for travelers on a budget, it's can be one of the smartest departure spots in Northern California. A key reason for its competitive prices is competition. According to aviation news site, Business Airport, there are 10 airports in the Silicon Valley region, including three major ones that offer international flights. This concentration of airports provides travelers with more choices, forcing airlines to keep prices more competitive.

By not being the largest and most prominent airport in the area, SJC also experiences less runway congestion, making it an ideal spot for budget airlines to operate out of. As such, airlines like Southwest and Alaska Airlines operate heavily out of SJC, providing steady domestic and international flights at lower prices than other major airlines. Because factors like airport fees, route demand, and airline competition play a role in airfare pricing, SJC's smaller size helps keep costs in check — meaning more lucrative flight deals.

If you don't live near SJC, or are looking to save even more when traveling, there are several ways to stretch your dollar when booking airfare. Some of the most common ways to save include booking well in advance, flying midweek, being flexible on dates, and even catching early morning or late-night flights. The day you book a flight also matters. Tuesdays are widely regarded as the best day to book a flight, but Sunday bookings can provide better savings. Ultimately, a little flexibility can go a long way toward unlocking better airfare no matter where you're flying from.

Signing up for frequent flyer and loyalty programs can also help cut costs on flights. These programs can offer other perks like free checked baggage and have become more lucrative as airlines look to build a lasting rapport with travelers. Being resourceful you can help you find great deals on airfare.