US Budget Airlines: Complete 2025 Comparison
AirHuntr Editorial
June 18, 2026
The United States has several ultra-low-cost carriers (ULCCs) that can be dramatically cheaper than legacy airlines — but also come with significant gotchas. Here's your guide.
The United States has several ultra-low-cost carriers (ULCCs) that can be dramatically cheaper than legacy airlines — but also come with significant gotchas. Here's your guide.
The Main Budget Carriers
Spirit Airlines
The original ultra-low-cost carrier. Fares from $29 one-way across the US.
What's included: One personal item (under seat, 18x14x8 inches). Everything else costs extra.
Fees:
- Carry-on bag: $45–$100 (yes, really — higher at airport than online)
- Checked bag: $40–$100
- Seat selection: $5–$50
- Printing boarding pass at airport: $25
Verdict: Excellent if you can pack into a tiny bag. Potentially expensive if not.
Frontier Airlines
Similar model to Spirit. Promotional fares from $19.
Frontier Miles: Their loyalty program. "All You Can Fly" pass (monthly subscription) is an interesting option for frequent travellers.
Verdict: Similar to Spirit. Compare prices on your specific route.
Allegiant Air
Focuses on connecting smaller cities to leisure destinations (Las Vegas, Florida, etc.). Doesn't hub through major airports.
Verdict: Good for leisure travel from non-hub cities. Less useful for coast-to-coast travel.
Sun Country Airlines
Minneapolis-based budget carrier. Good prices on leisure routes.
Legacy Carriers' Basic Economy
American, Delta, and United all offer "Basic Economy" fares that rival budget carriers:
- No seat selection (assigned at gate or check-in)
- No changes or refunds
- May not allow standard carry-on — this varies by carrier and is important to check
Basic Economy fares can genuinely be cheaper than Spirit/Frontier when bags are factored in.
Tips for Flying US Budget Airlines Cheaply
- Pack only a personal item (under-seat bag) — this unlocks the real savings
- Buy bags online when booking — never at the airport
- Check in online — some carriers charge at airport kiosks
- Download the airline app — app-exclusive fares and easier check-in
- Join the loyalty program — even if you rarely fly, status can unlock fee waivers
When to Use Legacy Airlines Instead
If you need to check a bag, want any flexibility to change, or are flying last-minute, legacy carriers often work out cheaper once fees are added. Always compare total cost (fare + all fees you'll pay) before assuming the budget airline is cheaper.
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