Planning a trip from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) to sunny Florida? Look no further for the best options for cheap flights. With numerous airlines offering affordable fares, it’s easier than ever to find a wallet-friendly flight to popular destinations like Miami, Orlando, or Tampa. Whether you’re in search of a direct flight or don’t mind a layover, there are several airlines to choose from, each with their own perks and advantages. So buckle up and get ready for a hassle-free booking experience, because we’ve done the research to help you find the best deal for your journey from MSP to the Sunshine State.
Airlines
When it comes to finding the best options for cheap flights from MSP to Florida, there are several airlines that you should consider. Delta, Southwest, Spirit, and Frontier are all popular choices, each offering their own advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a closer look at each airline:
Delta
Delta is a major airline that operates numerous flights to and from MSP to various destinations in Florida. They offer a range of flight options and have a reputation for their excellent customer service. Delta also has an extensive network of partner airlines, which can provide even more options for your trip.
Southwest
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, Southwest is a great choice. Known for their affordable fares and generous baggage policy, Southwest offers multiple flights from MSP to Florida. They also have a straightforward pricing system without any hidden fees, making it easier to budget for your trip.
Spirit
Spirit is another low-cost airline that offers flights from MSP to Florida. They are known for their ultra-low fares and their à la carte pricing model. While Spirit may have more fees than other airlines, they can still be a good option if you’re willing to forgo some amenities and pack light.
Frontier
Frontier is also a low-cost carrier that offers flights from MSP to various airports in Florida. They offer competitive fares and have a unique animal-themed livery on their planes. Like Spirit, Frontier operates with an à la carte pricing model, so be sure to factor in any additional fees when comparing prices.
Best Time to Book
Finding cheap flights from MSP to Florida often depends on the timing of your booking. Here are some tips on the best time to book your flight:
Off-Peak Seasons
Booking during off-peak seasons can often lead to significant savings. These are times when there is less demand for flights, such as during the shoulder seasons or midweek. Florida’s high season typically falls during the winter months when tourists escape colder climates, so consider booking your flight during the spring or fall when prices may be lower.
Last-Minute Deals
If you’re flexible with your travel dates and can handle a bit of spontaneity, last-minute deals can offer substantial savings. Airlines sometimes offer discounted fares to fill empty seats on flights scheduled to depart soon. By checking for last-minute deals, you might find an incredibly low fare for your trip to Florida.
Tuesday and Wednesday Departures
In general, flights departing on Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be cheaper than those on other days of the week. This is because these days are considered less popular for travel, as most people prefer leaving on Fridays or Sundays. If you can adjust your schedule accordingly, you may be able to snag a better deal.
Booking Flexibility
When it comes to booking your flight from MSP to Florida, there are several factors to consider. Here are some options that can enhance your booking flexibility:
Round-Trip vs One-Way
Deciding between booking a round-trip or a one-way ticket largely depends on the nature of your trip. If you’re planning a round-trip vacation and have set dates, booking a round-trip ticket may provide better value. On the other hand, if you’re unsure about your return date or have a flexible travel itinerary, booking one-way tickets can provide more freedom.
Open-Jaw Flights
Open-jaw flights are another way to add flexibility to your booking. This option allows you to fly into one airport and return from another, which can be particularly advantageous if you plan to explore multiple destinations within Florida. For example, you could fly into Tampa International Airport and return from Orlando International Airport, giving you the flexibility to visit different areas of the state.
Layovers
Opting for a flight with a layover can sometimes lead to cheaper fares. While layovers may extend your travel time, they can provide an opportunity to explore another city or even save money on your overall trip. If you don’t mind the extra time spent in transit, consider selecting flights with layovers to potentially find more affordable options.
Alternative Airports
When searching for cheap flights from MSP to Florida, consider exploring alternative airports near your desired destination. By expanding your options, you may find better deals or more convenient flight times. Here are two airports to consider:
Tampa International Airport
Located on the west coast of Florida, Tampa International Airport serves as a hub for several airlines. It offers a range of flights from MSP and is a great option if you’re planning to visit popular destinations such as Tampa, Clearwater, or St. Petersburg.
Orlando International Airport
Orlando International Airport is a major airport in Central Florida and is a gateway to the various attractions in the area, including Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort. With multiple airlines operating flights from MSP to Orlando, this airport provides numerous options for travelers.
Comparison Websites
When searching for the best options for cheap flights from MSP to Florida, utilizing comparison websites can simplify the process and help you find the best deals. Here are some popular comparison websites to consider:
Google Flights
Google Flights is a comprehensive search engine that allows you to compare prices and book flights across multiple airlines. It provides a user-friendly interface and allows you to filter your search based on specific criteria such as price, flight duration, and preferred airlines.
Skyscanner
Skyscanner is another popular flight comparison website that allows you to search and compare prices from various airlines. One of its standout features is the ability to search “Everywhere,” which displays flights from MSP to different destinations in Florida, helping you find the cheapest options.
Kayak
Kayak is a widely used travel search engine that aggregates flight information from multiple airlines and travel sites. It offers a range of filters to help you find the best flight options based on price, duration, stops, and more. Kayak also provides a price alert feature, which can notify you of price changes for your desired flight.
CheapOair
CheapOair is a travel website that focuses on offering discounted flights, hotels, and vacation packages. It allows you to search for flights from MSP to Florida and provides various deals and promotions. CheapOair also offers a price match guarantee, ensuring that you’re getting the best possible price for your flight.
Flight Alerts
If you’re looking to score the best deals for your flights from MSP to Florida, utilizing flight alerts can be incredibly helpful. Here are some flight alert services that can notify you of price drops or special promotions:
Google Flights Price Alerts
When searching for flights on Google Flights, you have the option to set up price alerts for your desired route. Once you have specified your travel dates and preferences, you can enable the price tracking feature. Google Flights will then send you email notifications if there are any significant changes in the price of your selected flights.
Scott’s Cheap Flights
Scott’s Cheap Flights is a subscription-based service that specializes in finding and sharing discounted flight deals. By signing up for their email newsletter, you’ll receive alerts when they discover cheap flights from MSP to Florida or other destinations. They also offer a premium subscription that provides access to exclusive deals and more frequent alerts.
Hopper
Hopper is a mobile app that uses data analytics to predict when flight prices will rise or fall. By setting up a trip on Hopper and selecting your desired MSP to Florida route, you’ll receive push notifications that inform you of the best time to book your flight. Hopper’s color-coded calendar view makes it easy to visualize price trends and make informed decisions.
Reward Programs
If you frequently travel from MSP to Florida or other destinations, joining airline reward programs can be a smart strategy. Here are the reward programs offered by the airlines previously mentioned:
Delta SkyMiles
Delta offers a robust loyalty program called SkyMiles. By joining this program, you can earn miles for every Delta flight you take and for flights with their partner airlines. These miles can then be redeemed for future flights, upgrades, and other travel-related perks. Delta SkyMiles also offers elite status tiers that come with additional benefits such as priority boarding and lounge access.
Southwest Rapid Rewards
Southwest has their own loyalty program called Rapid Rewards. With Rapid Rewards, you can earn points for every Southwest flight you take and through their various partners. These points can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and more. One notable perk of Rapid Rewards is the ability to earn a Companion Pass, which allows a designated person to fly for free with you for a year.
Spirit Saver$ Club
Spirit Airlines offers the Spirit Saver$ Club, which is a subscription-based program that provides access to discounted fares and other benefits. By joining the club, you can unlock exclusive deals and save on both flights and baggage fees. If you frequently fly with Spirit, the Saver$ Club can help you maximize your savings.
Frontier’s Discount Den
Frontier Airlines offers a membership program called Discount Den. By becoming a member, you’ll have access to exclusive fares and discounted baggage fees. The Discount Den membership can be particularly valuable if you frequently fly with Frontier, as it allows you to save on multiple flights throughout the year.
Package Deals
If you’re looking to book more than just a flight, package deals can provide excellent value. By bundling your flight with a hotel, rental car, or other services, you can often save on the overall cost of your trip. Here are some popular websites that offer package deals:
Expedia
Expedia is a popular online travel agency that offers a wide range of package deals for flights, hotels, and car rentals. Their platform allows you to customize your trip and bundle multiple components to save money. Expedia also offers a loyalty program called Expedia Rewards, allowing you to earn points for every booking.
Travelocity
Travelocity is another well-known online travel agency that offers package deals for flights, hotels, and more. They have a user-friendly interface that allows you to easily search and compare prices. Travelocity also offers a Price Match Guarantee, ensuring that you’re getting the best possible price for your package deal.
Priceline
Priceline is a popular platform for booking package deals and discounted flights, hotels, and rental cars. They offer a “Name Your Own Price” feature that allows you to bid on flights and accommodations, potentially securing even better deals. Priceline also has a loyalty program called Priceline VIP, which provides members with additional savings and benefits.
Budget Airlines
If you’re specifically looking for budget-friendly options for your flights from MSP to Florida, there are a couple of airlines that you should consider:
Allegiant Air
Allegiant Air is a budget airline that operates flights to various destinations in Florida. They offer no-frills service, allowing them to offer lower fares compared to traditional airlines. It’s worth noting that Allegiant Air operates from smaller airports, so be sure to check if there is a convenient departure location near you.
Sun Country Airlines
Sun Country Airlines is another budget-friendly option with flights from MSP to Florida. They offer competitive fares and have a reputation for their friendly service. Sun Country Airlines allows you to add on additional services such as checked baggage or seat selection for an additional fee, allowing you to customize your flight experience.
Additional Tips
To further assist you in finding cheap flights from MSP to Florida, here are some additional tips:
Be Flexible with Travel Dates
Being flexible with your travel dates can often lead to significant savings. By adjusting your departure date or considering different return options, you may find lower fares. Use the fare calendars on airline websites or comparison websites to identify the cheapest days to fly.
Avoid Peak Travel Times
To avoid inflated prices, it’s best to avoid peak travel times. This means steering clear of major holidays, school breaks, and other popular travel periods. By opting for less crowded times, you can find better deals and potentially enjoy a more relaxed travel experience.
Consider Alternate Airports
As mentioned earlier, considering alternative airports can open up more possibilities for finding cheap flights. If the prices from MSP are steep, check nearby airports or cities that may have lower fares. However, keep in mind the added cost and convenience of reaching these alternative airports.
By considering these tips and utilizing the resources available, you’ll be well on your way to finding the best options for cheap flights from MSP to Florida. Whether you prioritize budget-friendly fares, flexible booking options, or loyalty programs, there are plenty of ways to save on your next trip. Happy travels!