How to Find Cheap Flights to Texas

Texas is a state of vast contrasts, offering a rich mix of cultural diversity, historical landmarks, stunning natural landscapes, and thriving cities. From the cosmopolitan urban hubs of Dallas and Austin to the rugged beauty of Big Bend National Park, there’s a lot to discover in the Lone Star State. Whether you’re traveling for business, visiting family, or exploring Texas’ world-class attractions, finding affordable flights can help make your trip even more enjoyable.

In this guide, we’ll share tips for finding cheap flights to Texas, how to book wisely, and the best times to visit this vast and diverse state.

1. Why Visit Texas?

Texas is a place where the old meets the new, offering a blend of traditions and modernity. Here’s why Texas should be on your travel radar:

• Vibrant Cities: Texas is home to some of the most dynamic cities in the country. Austin, the state capital, is known for its live music scene and “Keep Austin Weird” culture, while Dallas is a bustling metropolis with shopping, sports, and dining. Houston, the largest city in the state, is a melting pot of cultures, offering amazing food, museums, and a thriving business scene. San Antonio is famous for its rich history, with the Alamo and the beautiful River Walk attracting millions of visitors each year.
• Unique History and Culture: Texas has a fascinating history, from its days as a republic to its role in the American frontier. History buffs can visit the San Jacinto Monument, the Alamo, and many museums dedicated to the state’s heritage. Texas is also known for its cowboy culture, oil history, and strong Latin influence, especially in cities like San Antonio and Houston.
• Stunning Natural Landscapes: If you love the outdoors, Texas has some of the most diverse landscapes in the U.S. From the desert beauty of Big Bend National Park to the piney woods of East Texas, there’s no shortage of places to explore. The state is also home to several scenic lakes, rivers, and hiking trails, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Food and Festivals: Texas is known for its food, particularly its barbecue, Tex-Mex cuisine, and chili. If you’re a foodie, you’ll want to try authentic Texas BBQ and sample some of the state’s legendary dishes. Texas is also famous for its festivals, from Austin’s South by Southwest (SXSW) music festival to Houston’s Rodeo, providing plenty of entertainment year-round.
• Space Exploration: Houston is home to NASA’s Johnson Space Center, where visitors can learn about space history and even meet astronauts. For anyone fascinated by space and science, a trip to Houston is a must.

2. When to Book Flights to Texas

Texas is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on the weather, the region you’re traveling to, and your budget. Here’s when to book your flights for the best experience:

• Peak Season (Spring and Fall): The peak tourist seasons in Texas are typically in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it the ideal time to explore cities like Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas. If you’re visiting for one of Texas’ many festivals or events, be sure to book your flights well in advance, as these months can see higher airfare prices.
• Off-Season (Summer): Summer in Texas can be hot, especially in cities like Dallas, Houston, and Austin. Temperatures often soar above 100°F (38°C), which means fewer tourists, making summer a great time for those who want to avoid the crowds. However, if you plan to visit during summer, expect to pay higher rates for hotels, and be prepared for intense heat. Airfare prices may also be lower during this season due to fewer tourists.
• Holiday Season (Winter): Winter in Texas is mild, with temperatures rarely dipping below freezing, especially in the southern parts of the state. Texas sees fewer visitors during the winter holidays, so this can be a good time to find cheaper flights, though you may encounter higher prices around Christmas and New Year’s. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, travel just after the New Year for better deals on airfare and accommodations.
• Shoulder Season (Late Spring and Early Fall): For the best combination of good weather and affordable flights, consider traveling in late spring (May) or early fall (September). These months are generally less crowded and offer a good balance between moderate temperatures and lower prices.

3. Tips for Finding Cheap Flights to Texas

Finding affordable flights to Texas doesn’t have to be a challenge. Here are some helpful tips for scoring the best deals:

• Use Flight Comparison Websites: Start your search on popular flight comparison sites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak. These tools allow you to compare prices across multiple airlines and booking websites, helping you find the best deals on flights to Texas.
• Set Fare Alerts: Set up fare alerts on flight comparison tools to monitor price drops. By doing this, you’ll be notified when there’s a significant drop in prices for your chosen destination, allowing you to book at the lowest rate.
• Fly Midweek: Flights to Texas tend to be cheaper when flying on weekdays, particularly Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Avoid flying on weekends, as airfare is usually higher due to increased demand. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, aim for a midweek flight to save money.
• Book in Advance: For the best deals, try to book your flight to Texas at least 2-3 months in advance. Last-minute bookings may result in higher prices, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons or to popular events like South by Southwest in Austin.
• Consider Budget Airlines: Several low-cost carriers, such as Spirit, Frontier, and Southwest, offer flights to Texas, sometimes at a fraction of the price of major airlines. Although budget airlines often charge for additional services like checked baggage, you can still save money if you’re willing to travel light and be flexible with your amenities.
• Use Flexible Dates: Flight prices can vary significantly depending on the day and time of year. If your travel dates are flexible, use the flexible dates feature on flight search engines to find the lowest fares. Often, flying a day earlier or later can result in significant savings.
• Check Nearby Airports: Texas is home to several large airports. Depending on your final destination, flying into a nearby airport might save you money. For example, you could fly into Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) or Love Field Airport (DAL) in Dallas, or check flights to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) if you’re headed to Austin. Often, smaller regional airports have cheaper flights compared to the major hubs.
• Look for Connecting Flights: Nonstop flights are often more expensive. If you’re looking to save money, consider booking a connecting flight. While connecting flights take longer, they can be significantly cheaper, especially if you’re flying from a less common airport.

4. Best Airports to Fly Into in Texas

Texas has a large number of airports, and the one you choose will depend on your final destination. Here’s a look at some of the most popular airports in the state:

• Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW): DFW is one of the busiest airports in the world and a major hub for international flights. If you’re headed to Dallas, Fort Worth, or the surrounding areas, DFW is the main airport. It offers numerous direct flights from cities around the world, making it an easy entry point into Texas.
• George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), Houston: Houston is Texas’ largest city, and George Bush Intercontinental Airport serves as the main hub for international and domestic flights. If you’re visiting Houston, you’ll likely fly into IAH, which is about 23 miles north of downtown. The airport is well-connected with direct flights to major cities across the U.S. and worldwide.
• Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), Austin: Austin, the capital of Texas, is known for its live music scene, tech industry, and growing cultural influence. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport serves as the city’s main hub, offering flights from both domestic and international destinations. If you’re traveling to Austin, this is your best airport option.
• San Antonio International Airport (SAT): San Antonio is another popular destination in Texas, known for its historic sites, especially the Alamo. San Antonio International Airport serves the city and surrounding area, with many direct flights from major U.S. cities. It’s a smaller airport compared to Dallas or Houston but offers a good selection of affordable flights.
• Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL): Love Field is a smaller airport located closer to downtown Dallas, serving mostly domestic flights. If you’re flying to Dallas and want to avoid the larger DFW airport, Love Field is a great alternative, especially for travelers flying on Southwest Airlines.

5. Last-Minute Flights to Texas

If you’re planning a last-minute trip to Texas, here are a few tips for finding affordable flights:

• Use Last-Minute Flight Apps: Websites like Priceline and Hotwire specialize in last-minute deals and discounted flights. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you can often score significant savings on flights to Texas.
• Monitor Flash Sales: Airlines occasionally offer flash sales with deeply discounted last-minute fares, especially on less popular routes. Keep an eye on deal websites like Secret Flying or follow airlines’ social media accounts for announcements.
• Book Red-Eye Flights: If you don’t mind flying at night, red-eye flights (those that depart late at night and arrive in the morning) can often be cheaper than daytime flights. This is a great option if you’re flying to Texas on short notice.

Conclusion

Texas offers an incredible variety of experiences, from vibrant city life and cultural landmarks to beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re heading to Austin for a music festival, Dallas for business, or Houston to explore the Space Center, finding cheap flights to Texas is entirely possible with the right strategies. By being flexible with your travel dates, using fare comparison tools, and considering budget airlines and alternative airports, you can secure affordable airfare and make your Texas adventure even more affordable.