If you’re looking to save on flights in or out of Houston, plenty of budget airlines have your back. Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and Frontier Airlines are among the top affordable carriers flying from both George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU).
These airlines help keep costs down and still cover a surprising number of destinations.
Picking the right budget airline can really shape your travel experience. Some focus on convenience at Hobby, while others stick to Intercontinental but fly to more places.
Knowing which airline flies from where—and what they’re good at—will make planning your trip a lot easier.
Key Takeways
- Budget airlines offer multiple affordable flight options to and from Houston airports.
- Different budget carriers operate from different Houston airports with varying destinations.
- Booking early and comparing routes helps you find the cheapest flights to Houston.
Top Budget Airlines Operating in Houston
Houston’s got a handful of budget-friendly airlines, each with their own perks. Some have tons of routes, and others just focus on low fares and the basics.
Knowing what each one offers can help you pick flights that fit your budget and plans.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines is a go-to for budget travel in Houston. They’ve got a big network of domestic flights, plus a few to nearby international spots.
Free checked bags are a nice touch, especially if you don’t travel light.
Their ticket prices are usually pretty good, especially if you book ahead. No change fees, either, so you’ve got some wiggle room if your plans shift.
You can earn rewards through their Rapid Rewards program—free flights, perks, the usual.
Most Southwest flights leave from Houston Hobby Airport. That’s often more convenient for locals. Customer service is solid, and you’ll see frequent sales pop up.
Air Canada
Air Canada runs budget routes from Houston, mainly up to Canada. If you’re aiming for Toronto or Vancouver, it’s worth checking their fares.
Sometimes their tickets are cheaper than other international carriers.
Expect the basics: you’ll pay add-on fees for checked bags or to pick your seat. Booking early is your best bet for low fares.
They’ve got their own loyalty program, which could help if you’re a frequent flyer.
Flights usually leave from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). Air Canada’s all about no-frills, straightforward options to Canada at a lower price.
United
United isn’t always seen as a budget airline, but you can find some good deals on Houston routes.
They’ve got a hub at George Bush Intercontinental, so direct flights and connections are easy to find.
United’s economy fares can be pretty affordable, especially if you keep an eye out for sales or book ahead. They offer different fare levels, so you can pick what fits your budget—even basic economy if you don’t mind restrictions.
If you use United’s credit cards or loyalty program, you can snag extra perks and discounts. United balances budget pricing with more comfort and lots of flight options from Houston.
Major Airports for Budget Flights in Houston
Houston’s got two main airports for budget flights. Each one serves different airlines and destinations, so knowing the differences can help you pick the best fit.
William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)
William P. Hobby Airport, or just Hobby, is the main base for Southwest Airlines. It’s a top pick if you want cheap flights within the U.S.
The airport’s smaller and closer to downtown, so getting in and out is usually faster. Fewer crowds and shorter lines are a bonus.
Hobby mostly handles domestic flights but has a few international routes. If you want an easy, no-fuss airport experience, this could be the one.
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
George Bush Intercontinental, or IAH, is bigger and serves more airlines—including international ones. Budget flights are here, too, but the airport covers a wider mix of routes.
It’s about 23 miles from downtown, so plan for a longer ride.
You’ll find more flight options and destinations, including some budget airlines flying longer routes. There are several terminals, so double-check where your airline departs from.
If you want lots of choices and don’t mind the extra drive, IAH is the way to go.
How to Find the Best Budget Flights to Houston
Getting cheap tickets to Houston takes a bit of strategy. Watching prices over time and knowing when to book makes a big difference.
Flight tracking tools and credit card rewards can also help cut costs.
Flight Calendar and Price Alerts
Using a flight calendar lets you check prices on different days, so you can pick the cheapest date to fly.
Flying midweek or on certain weekends can save you money.
Set up price alerts on sites like Google Flights or Expedia. When fares drop, you’ll get notified and can grab the deal before it’s gone.
Sometimes, booking two one-way tickets is cheaper than a round trip. Worth checking.
Best Time and Cheapest Month to Fly
January or February is usually the cheapest time to fly to Houston. After the holidays, demand drops and so do prices.
Try to book your ticket 3 to 6 weeks before your trip. Prices almost always go up as the departure date gets closer, especially around holidays or big events.
Flying early in the morning or late at night can also save you a few bucks. Weekends tend to be pricier.
Using Credit Cards for Rewards
If you’ve got a credit card that earns airline miles or travel points, use it. Every purchase adds up, and those miles can turn into cheap or free flights to Houston.
Check if your card covers airlines like Spirit, American, or United. Some cards give you extra miles for booking directly with airlines or through certain travel sites.
Look out for sign-up bonuses, too. Hitting the minimum spend can score you enough miles for a free one-way—or even a round trip—to Houston.
Just keep an eye on annual fees to make sure you’re actually saving money.
Making the Most of Your Budget Flight Experience in Houston
When flying budget airlines in Houston, it helps to plan how you’ll get into the city and where to relax before your flight. Maybe even think about what you’ll do after you land.
Getting to Central Houston
Budget flights often land at Hobby Airport (HOU). To get downtown, you’ve got a few options.
Taxis or ride-shares are the easiest—usually about 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay $25 to $35.
Public transit is cheaper but slower. METRO bus 40 links Hobby to downtown in about 45 minutes for $1.25.
If you’re renting a car, watch out for traffic during rush hour. Houston’s roads can get jammed, especially on weekdays.
Lounge Access and Travel Tips
Budget airlines almost never include lounge access, so if you want a quiet spot, plan ahead.
You can buy day passes to airline lounges at Hobby Airport—prices start around $30. Not a bad splurge if you want snacks, comfy chairs, and Wi-Fi.
Packing your own snacks and bringing a refillable water bottle can save you money. Airport food isn’t cheap.
Book flights early to lock in the best prices and seats. Always double-check baggage rules so you don’t get hit with surprise fees.
Top Attractions in Houston
Once you’re in Houston, there are some affordable ways to explore nearby. You don’t have to spend a fortune to have a good time.
Visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Tickets are under $30, and there’s a surprisingly wide range of exhibits.
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, is close by. If you swing by on a Thursday, admission’s actually free.
Hermann Park is a solid spot to relax outdoors. Walk through the gardens, check out the zoo, or just hang out in the picnic areas.
All these places are pretty close to central Houston. Honestly, it’s easy to fit them in after your budget flight.