Table of Contents
If you’re trying to save on flights from Minneapolis, it helps to know which budget airlines serve the area. Sun Country Airlines is one of the top budget carriers operating out of Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport, offering affordable fares to destinations across the U.S., Mexico, and the Caribbean.
Choosing the right airline can get you better deals and more travel choices without breaking the bank.
Budget airlines in Minneapolis keep ticket prices low while aiming for reliable service. Many folks use these carriers for short trips or vacation getaways.
Understanding which airlines fly where helps you avoid surprise costs and plan trips more smoothly.
Booking early and having flexible travel dates usually leads to better prices. Getting to know the budget airline scene in Minneapolis means you can spot deals and travel smarter.
Key Takeaways
- Budget airlines offer low fares from Minneapolis to lots of popular spots.
- Knowing your options helps you score the best flight deals.
- Flexibility and early booking can save you even more.
Overview of Budget Airlines in Minneapolis
Several budget airlines operate at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP), offering affordable flights within the U.S. and nearby countries. These airlines give you choices for nonstop and connecting flights, so you can pick based on price, timing, or destination.
Key Features of Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport
MSP is the main airport for Minneapolis and the surrounding region. It’s got two terminals: Terminal 1-Lindbergh and Terminal 2-Humphrey, where most budget airlines operate.
Easy connections to downtown are available via light rail, buses, and car services. The airport has free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and plenty of food choices.
Security lines are usually quick, and parking options are available for both short and long stays. Facilities are modern enough to keep budget travel pretty stress-free.
Types of Budget Flights Available
At MSP, budget airlines mostly offer low-cost, no-frills flights. You’ll find both nonstop flights and those with stops.
Main carriers include Sun Country Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and Frontier Airlines. These airlines charge extra for things like checked bags, seat selection, and snacks, so watch for added fees.
Flights are available for both business and leisure, with options during the week or on weekends. Most focus on domestic routes, but some do cover nearby international spots.
Popular Domestic and International Destinations
From MSP, budget airlines fly to cities like Las Vegas, Orlando, Denver, and Chicago. These routes are favorites for quick vacations or business trips.
Internationally, you can get budget flights to places like Cancun, Mexico, and a few Caribbean spots—mainly with Frontier or Spirit.
With over 100 destinations on tap, you’ve got a lot of affordable options whether you’re planning a weekend away or a longer escape.
Top Budget Airlines Operating in Minneapolis
You’ll find several budget airlines flying in and out of Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Some focus on domestic travel, while others offer international bargains.
Sun Country Airlines
Sun Country Airlines is based in Minneapolis and is all about budget-friendly fares. They’ve got loads of flights across the U.S., especially to vacation hotspots in Florida, the Caribbean, and Mexico.
Tickets sometimes dip below $100, which is great if you’re watching your wallet. Sun Country also runs seasonal flights to Europe at lower prices than big-name carriers.
Seating is standard, and you pay for extras, so it’s simple, no-nonsense travel. If you don’t need frills, Sun Country is a solid pick.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines has a strong presence in Minneapolis, with competitive prices and a flexible system. Two checked bags fly free—handy if you pack heavy.
They serve many U.S. locations and offer cheap flights to nearby states. Southwest doesn’t charge for flight changes, which is a relief if your plans are shaky.
You pick your seat when you board, thanks to their open seating policy. For short trips or regional flights, Southwest’s value is tough to beat.
Delta Air Lines
Delta is a big player at MSP, since it’s one of their main hubs. While not a pure budget airline, Delta sometimes offers solid deals and sales on domestic routes.
Booking early or using their low fare calendar can snag you a bargain. Delta also has more perks than most budget airlines, like free snacks and drinks.
They partner with international carriers like KLM, Air France, and Scandinavian Airlines, so your budget options stretch a bit further. If you want a mix of comfort and price, Delta’s worth a look.
Other Notable Low-Cost Carriers
A few other airlines pop up with affordable flights from Minneapolis. Icelandair and Norse Atlantic Air offer budget transatlantic routes, sometimes cheaper than major carriers.
Ryanair doesn’t fly to Minneapolis, but it’s a big deal in Europe—worth remembering if you’re connecting. Virgin Atlantic also has some competitive long-haul fares, often teamed up with Delta.
These are good choices if your travel plans include Europe or connecting through big hubs for lower overall costs.
Tips for Finding the Best Budget Flights
To get the best deals from Minneapolis, use tools like flight calendars and price alerts. Knowing when to travel and whether to go direct or take a layover helps too.
Using a Flight Calendar and Setting Price Alerts
A flight calendar lays out prices for different days, so you can spot cheaper options at a glance. Check it if you’re flexible with dates—flying midweek or at odd hours can be cheaper.
Set up price alerts to get notified when fares drop. You can also search nearby airports for better deals. Sometimes, flights from a city just outside Minneapolis can save you a surprising amount.
Tracking prices over time with these tools helps you book when the cost is lowest.
Choosing Between Direct and Indirect Flights
Direct flights are faster but usually pricier. Indirect flights with stops can be much cheaper if you don’t mind the detour.
If you’re flexible and don’t mind a longer journey, layovers can save you quite a bit. On the flip side, more stops mean more chances for delays.
If you value convenience over savings, direct is probably better. Always compare both options before you click “book.”
Finding the Cheapest Month to Fly
The cheapest month to fly from Minneapolis depends on demand and season. Late winter or early spring usually brings lower prices, since fewer people are traveling.
Holidays and summer see higher fares. Use flight calendars to scan different months for bargains.
Booking your return flight during off-peak times can also trim your costs. Avoiding peak dates usually means a cheaper round-trip.
Essential Travel Information for Budget Flyers
If you’re flying on a budget, knowing how to handle the airport, average flight times, local weather, and transport options can make a big difference. A little planning goes a long way in avoiding hassles.
Navigating Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport
MSP has two main terminals: Terminal 1 (Lindbergh) and Terminal 2 (Humphrey). Most budget airlines, like Sun Country, use Terminal 1.
A free light rail connects the terminals, and it takes just 5-10 minutes to get between them. Check-in, security, and baggage claim are well marked.
Arrive at least two hours before your flight, just to be safe. Airport staff are usually helpful, and there’s free Wi-Fi and plenty of food options if you’re hungry or bored.
Average Flight Time and Popular Routes
Flights from Minneapolis tend to cover short or medium distances, which helps keep fares down. For example:
| Route | Average Flight Time |
|---|---|
| Minneapolis to Denver | 2 hours |
| Minneapolis to Cancun | 4 hours |
Budget airlines often serve popular routes like Denver and Cancun without stops. Knowing flight times lets you plan your day a bit better.
If you’re flying Southwest or Sun Country on these routes, you’ll usually get nonstop service. That’s a time saver and a stress reducer.
Weather and Best Time to Go to Minneapolis
Minneapolis winters are cold—sometimes bitterly so—and snow is common from November through March. Summers are warm and humid, with temps between 70°F and 85°F.
If you want good weather and lots to do, late spring to early fall (May to September) is your best bet. Parks are open and outdoor events are everywhere.
Winter trips are cheaper, but you’ll need to be ready for snow delays. Pack for the weather, and you’ll be fine.
Ground Transportation and Car Hire Options
At MSP, you’ve got a few solid ways to get around without breaking the bank. The Metro Transit Light Rail connects the airport straight to downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul.
A ride on the light rail costs about $2.50. Trains come pretty often, which is nice if you want to skip the taxi line.
Public buses and shuttles are available to nearby areas too. Not everyone loves waiting for a bus, but it works in a pinch.
If driving is more your speed, there are plenty of car hire companies at the airport. You’ll find names like Budget, Hertz, and Enterprise.
Honestly, booking your car online before you arrive usually gets you a better deal. It’s not a bad move if you like knowing what you’re getting into.
Parking at the airport offers long-term and short-term lots. Rates start around $10 per day.
It’s worth checking parking options early, just so you’re not scrambling last minute.