Bakersfield, California, is home to a handful of airlines that make affordable travel surprisingly doable. The best budget airlines flying out of Bakersfield are American Airlines and United Airlines, both pretty well-known for low fares and convenient routes.
These carriers let you book local or longer trips without emptying your wallet.
If you’re hoping to save money on flights from Meadows Field Airport, sticking with these airlines is a smart move. Using flight search tools to compare prices before booking can really help you snag the best deal.
Key Takeaways
- Bakersfield has several affordable flight options.
- Choosing established airlines is often the cheapest and simplest route.
- Flight comparison tools can help you spot better deals.
Overview of Budget Airlines Serving Bakersfield
Meadows Field Airport in Bakersfield serves a few budget-conscious airlines. These carriers connect you to bigger cities with efficient, smaller planes.
Knowing which airlines operate here—and where they go—makes it easier to plan a trip that doesn’t blow your budget.
Key Carriers at Meadows Field Airport
Two main players here: American Airlines and United Airlines. They’re both full-service, but out of Bakersfield, you’ll usually find some pretty competitive fares.
You can book flights on their websites or in person at the airport.
There aren’t a ton of other low-cost airlines at Bakersfield, so choices are limited compared to bigger airports. Still, with American and United, you can reach major hubs and connect onward.
Destinations Offered by Low-Cost Airlines
Most budget flights from Bakersfield head to big connecting airports like Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Phoenix (PHX), and Denver (DEN). From those hubs, you can go just about anywhere.
Direct, nonstop flights are rare. Most budget-friendly options focus on short regional hops that link you to larger airports.
Bakersfield works well as a jumping-off point for cheap flights to bigger cities.
Types of Aircraft Used by Budget Airlines
Out of Bakersfield, you’ll mostly see smaller jets like the Embraer E175 and Bombardier CRJ700. These seat about 70 to 88 people—nothing huge, but comfortable enough for short trips.
Wide-body planes don’t really show up here, since the routes and airport size don’t demand them.
Regional jets are efficient for these distances, which is exactly what budget airlines like to offer.
Comparison of Budget Airlines in Bakersfield
When picking a budget airline in Bakersfield, consider ticket prices, what’s included, and how often flights run. All these details can change your travel experience.
Ticket Pricing and Fare Transparency
Airlines like Southwest, JetBlue, Avelo, and Breeze tend to offer solid prices out of Bakersfield. Fares are usually lower than with the big legacy carriers, but keep an eye out for extra fees.
Some airlines show you the total cost upfront, while others tack on charges for bags, seats, or snacks. For example, Southwest gives you two checked bags for free, which can make a big difference.
Always compare the base fare plus any extras before you book so you don’t get caught off guard.
Onboard Amenities and Services
Budget airlines keep things pretty basic. Free Wi-Fi is sometimes included, but snacks and drinks often cost extra.
Southwest usually offers complimentary soft drinks and some free entertainment. JetBlue has a bit more legroom and free snacks, which is honestly a nice touch.
If you’re flying Avelo or Breeze, expect minimal frills—bring your own food, or plan to pay for anything besides water.
Punctuality and Flight Frequency
How often flights run and whether they’re on time can really matter, especially if you’re connecting. Southwest and JetBlue both have several flights a day from Bakersfield, so you get some flexibility.
Smaller airlines might only fly a few times a week, which can limit your options. Southwest generally has a good reputation for being on time, though, which is reassuring.
It’s worth checking the schedule and recent on-time stats if you’ve got tight plans.
Tips for Booking the Cheapest Flights
Want to save even more? When you book, how you compare prices, and knowing about extra fees all play a part.
Best Times to Book Budget Airline Tickets
Book your flight one to three months before you travel for the best prices. Last-minute tickets? They’re almost always more expensive.
Tuesdays and Wednesdays are usually the cheapest days to buy. Flying midweek—especially Tuesday, Wednesday, or Saturday—can also keep costs down.
Try to avoid booking during major holidays or peak seasons. Off-season travel almost always means lower fares.
Using Fare Comparison Tools
Sites like Google Flights, Kayak, or Travelocity make it easy to compare prices. Just put in Bakersfield as your departure point to see what’s out there.
Set up price alerts so you’ll know when fares drop. That way, you can jump on a deal as soon as it pops up.
And hey, check nearby airports too. Sometimes driving a bit farther for your flight can mean serious savings.
Understanding Airline Fees and Policies
Budget airlines love to tack on charges for things you’d expect to get for free, like checked bags or picking your seat. Sometimes, they even charge for carry-ons.
Before you book, it’s smart to check all those extra fees. Otherwise, the real cost can sneak up on you.
Cancellation and change policies can be a headache, too. Some budget airlines have strict rules and pretty steep fees if you need to change anything.
Try to find airlines that lay out their fees clearly. That way, you’re not left guessing what the final price will be.