Sunny Fontana, California, nestled in the Inland Empire region of Southern California, is a gateway to numerous exciting destinations near and far. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a business trip, finding affordable flights can make your journey more enjoyable and budget-friendly. This guide will help you navigate the world of air travel and score big savings on flights departing from Fontana.
1. Use Nearby Airports Strategically
Fontana doesn’t have its own commercial airport, but it is conveniently located near several major airports, including:
- Ontario International Airport (ONT) – approximately 10 miles away.
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – approximately 60 miles away.
- John Wayne Airport (SNA) – approximately 50 miles away.
Each of these airports offers different airlines and routes, which can sometimes provide significantly cheaper fares. Sites like Kayak, Skyscanner, and Google Flights allow you to compare prices from multiple airports simultaneously.
2. Book in Advance, But Be Flexible
Airlines typically release tickets about 11 months in advance.
Tips for Optimal Booking:
- Early Birds: Booking 2-3 months in advance can often net you the best prices.
- Flexibility: If your schedule allows, flying mid-week (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) often results in cheaper fares compared to peak weekends (Fridays and Sundays).
- Seasonal Awareness: Consider traveling during off-peak seasons. For example, flying to Europe in early spring or late fall can be significantly more affordable than during the summer.
3. Set Up Fare Alerts
Subscribing to fare alerts is an excellent way to stay on top of price changes without having to search manually every day. Websites and apps like:
- Airfarewatchdog
- Hopper
- Skyscanner
- Google Flights Alerts
By setting up alerts for your desired routes, these services will notify you of price drops, allowing you to snag deals as soon as they appear.
4. Leverage Airline Reward Programs and Credit Card Points
If you travel frequently, joining an airline’s frequent flyer program or using a travel reward credit card can provide significant savings. Points accrued through flying or everyday purchases can often be redeemed for flights, upgrades, or other travel-related expenses.
Popular Travel Reward Credit Cards:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred: Known for its generous sign-up bonus and robust point-earning mechanism.
- American Express Gold Card: Excellent for earning points on dining and groceries, which can be transferred to airlines.
- Citi/AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard: Great for earning miles when flying with American Airlines.
5. Explore Budget Airlines
Budget airlines often provide significant savings compared to traditional carriers, but always read the fine print regarding additional fees for baggage, seat selection, and other services.
Budget Airline Options:
- Southwest Airlines (Ontario)
- JetBlue Airways (Ontario and LAX)
- Spirit Airlines (LAX)
- Frontier Airlines (Ontario)
While these carriers can help save money, be mindful of their various fees and know exactly what’s included in your ticket price.
6. Check for Student, Military, and Senior Discounts
If you belong to any specific groups such as students, military personnel, or seniors, you might be eligible for additional discounts. Some airlines have dedicated programs or offers for these groups, which can lead to considerable savings.
7. Consider Alternate Routes and Stopovers
Sometimes flying directly can be more expensive. Investigating alternative routes or incorporating a stopover can significantly reduce the cost of your airfare. Some airlines even provide free stopovers in their hub cities, allowing you to explore an additional destination without extra cost.
8. Be Strategic with Timing and Payment
Days to Book:
- Historically, studies have shown that Tuesday afternoons are often the best times to find cheap flights as airlines usually announce deals on Mondays.
Payment Methods:
- Some travel sites offer discounts for using specific payment methods, like direct debit or certain credit cards. Always check if there’s an extra fee for using a credit card, and balance it against your potential rewards points earnings.
Conclusion
Finding cheap flights from Fontana doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With strategic planning, flexibility, and the right tools, you can uncover deals that make your next adventure affordable and stress-free. Use this guide to navigate the myriad options available and start planning your next budget-friendly trip today!