Cheap Flights from Burbank to Vegas: Insider Guide to Scoring the Best Deals
The journey from Burbank, California to Las Vegas is one of the most popular short-haul routes in the western United States, and for good reason. Located just 270 miles apart, these two vibrant cities attract millions of travelers annually seeking entertainment, adventure, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a business trip, or a spontaneous adventure, finding affordable flights from Burbank to Vegas doesn’t have to be complicated. This comprehensive guide reveals insider secrets, booking strategies, and practical tips that will help you secure the cheapest possible fares while maximizing your travel experience.
Burbank Airport (BUR), situated in the heart of Los Angeles County, serves as an excellent departure point for Vegas-bound travelers. With its convenient location, shorter security lines compared to LAX, and proximity to Hollywood, Burbank has become increasingly popular among savvy travelers. The flight itself takes approximately one hour, making it one of the quickest routes you can take in the region. Understanding how to navigate this route efficiently can save you hundreds of dollars annually and transform your travel planning experience.
Best Times to Book Burbank to Vegas Flights
Timing is everything when searching for cheap flights from Burbank to Las Vegas. Industry experts consistently recommend booking flights 1-3 months in advance for domestic routes, though this route occasionally offers last-minute deals. Tuesday and Wednesday typically feature the lowest fares, as fewer leisure travelers book mid-week flights. Airlines release their cheapest seats on Tuesday afternoons, so setting your alerts for that specific time can yield significant savings.
Seasonal variations dramatically impact pricing on this route. Summer months (June-August) and major holidays command premium prices due to increased demand. Conversely, January through March, excluding spring break, offers some of the cheapest fares of the year. If you’re flexible with your dates, traveling on weekday mornings rather than Friday evenings can reduce costs by 30-50%. Red-eye flights departing late evening often feature substantial discounts, perfect for travelers who don’t mind sacrificing sleep for savings.
Avoid booking during major Vegas events like CES in January, March Madness, and New Year’s Eve weekend, when prices skyrocket. Instead, plan trips around quieter periods like early September or late October, when weather remains pleasant but tourism drops significantly. Understanding Vegas’s event calendar transforms you into a strategic traveler capable of finding exceptional deals.
Airlines Offering Competitive Fares
Several carriers operate the Burbank to Vegas route, each with distinct advantages and pricing strategies. Southwest Airlines frequently dominates this route with competitive pricing and customer-friendly policies. Their two free checked bags and flexible change policies make them particularly valuable for budget-conscious travelers. Southwest’s frequent promotions and rapid rewards program can provide additional savings for regular flyers.
Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines, ultra-low-cost carriers, often advertise fares starting at $29-$49 one-way. However, scrutinize the fine print carefully, as baggage fees, seat selection charges, and other ancillary costs can quickly accumulate. For a single carry-on bag, these carriers remain unbeatable; for checked luggage, calculate total costs before committing.
Delta, United, and American Airlines maintain regular service on this route with varying price points. These legacy carriers typically cost more than budget alternatives but compensate with superior amenities, frequent flyer benefits, and more generous baggage allowances. If you hold elite status with any major airline, partner awards and upgrades can provide unexpected value.
JetBlue occasionally services this route with competitive pricing and exceptional customer service. Their free snacks, entertainment, and checked bag policies (for certain fare classes) justify slightly higher base fares for many travelers. Comparing total trip costs across all carriers, not just base fares, reveals true value.
Money-Saving Strategies and Booking Tactics
Master several proven techniques to consistently find the cheapest flights on this route. First, utilize flight comparison websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak, which simultaneously search multiple airlines and display price trends. Google Flights’ price tracking feature proves invaluable; set alerts for your desired travel dates and receive notifications when prices drop. These tools reveal historical pricing patterns, helping you determine whether current fares represent genuine bargains.
Clear your browser cookies before booking, as airlines occasionally display higher prices to repeat visitors. Alternatively, use incognito browsing mode to ensure you’re seeing the lowest available prices. Consider booking directly with airlines rather than through third-party websites, as direct bookings sometimes offer exclusive discounts and provide better customer service if issues arise.
Sign up for airline newsletters and follow budget carriers’ social media accounts to catch flash sales and promotional offers. Southwest Rapid Rewards members receive exclusive early-bird pricing for flight sales. Setting up price alerts across multiple platforms ensures you never miss exceptional deals. Some travelers find success booking one-way tickets separately when combined fares exceed round-trip prices, though this requires careful timing coordination.
Leverage credit card sign-up bonuses specifically designed for travel. Many cards offer 50,000+ bonus points after meeting minimum spending requirements, often translating to free or heavily discounted flights. Annual travel credits and airline-specific perks further enhance value. Additionally, booking during airline sales periods—typically 2-3 times monthly—can yield 20-40% discounts compared to standard pricing.
Consider flying into alternative Vegas airports. Harry Reid International Airport (formerly McCarran) remains the primary airport, but North Las Vegas Airport sometimes offers cheaper ground transportation options. However, verify total trip costs including ground transfers before choosing alternative airports, as savings may evaporate through increased transportation expenses.
Navigating Burbank Airport Like a Pro
Burbank Airport’s compact size and efficient operations make it a traveler’s dream compared to sprawling LAX. Arriving 90 minutes before departure (rather than the standard two hours) typically suffices for domestic flights. Security lines move quickly, and the airport rarely experiences congestion. Parking costs significantly less than LAX—just $5-$15 daily depending on lot selection—or take the Metro Red Line from Hollywood for under $2.
The airport features numerous restaurants, shops, and lounges despite its modest size. TSA PreCheck or Clear membership accelerates security screening, particularly valuable during peak travel periods. If you miss your flight, Burbank’s size means rebooking arrangements happen quickly compared to major hubs.
Arrive early enough to explore the airport’s unique features, including aviation history displays and the historic terminal building. The relaxed atmosphere makes pre-flight stress minimal, allowing you to begin your Vegas adventure in a positive mindset. Ground transportation options include rideshare, rental cars, and shuttle services; compare prices beforehand to avoid overpaying for transfers.
Alternative Routes and Hidden Savings
While direct Burbank to Vegas flights offer convenience, exploring alternative routing sometimes reveals significant savings. Flying into Long Beach Airport (LGB) instead of Burbank occasionally provides cheaper fares, though ground transportation costs must be factored in. Ontario International Airport (ONT), located east of Los Angeles, sometimes offers competitive pricing for Vegas-bound travelers willing to drive 60 minutes to the airport.
Some adventurous travelers find success booking connecting flights through cheaper hubs like Las Vegas’s secondary carriers. However, verify that connection time, baggage handling, and total travel duration justify potential savings. A three-hour journey with connections rarely beats a direct one-hour flight, even if the base fare appears cheaper.
Combining flight searches with hotel packages sometimes reveals bundled discounts exceeding individual component savings. Many airlines and travel websites offer package deals combining flights and accommodation, particularly during promotional periods. These packages lock in rates and simplify planning while delivering genuine value.
Travel Tips for Vegas Visitors
Once you’ve secured cheap flights to Vegas, maximize your savings through strategic planning. The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority website offers extensive resources for planning your trip affordably. Consider visiting during shoulder seasons (September-October, April-May) when hotel rates drop 30-50% compared to peak periods.
Downtown Las Vegas offers significantly cheaper hotel rates than the famous Strip, with excellent dining and entertainment options. The Fremont Street Experience provides authentic Vegas atmosphere without premium pricing. Many visitors discover that staying downtown and taking the monorail or rideshare to Strip attractions costs substantially less than staying directly on the Strip.
Take advantage of free attractions including the Bellagio Fountains, Mirage Volcano, and various casino floor entertainment. Museums and attractions offer discounted admission during weekday mornings. Dining off-Strip provides superior value; local favorites deliver exceptional cuisine at 40-60% less than tourist-oriented establishments.
Book show tickets and attraction reservations in advance through discount ticket outlets offering 30-50% savings compared to box office prices. Many shows offer discounted performances during matinee hours or specific weekdays. Walking the Strip costs nothing and allows you to experience the spectacle without spending money.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft typically cost $8-$15 for Strip-to-downtown trips, cheaper than taxis and more convenient than walking in desert heat. Download the Aria, Mandalay Bay, and other major casino apps for exclusive discounts and promotions. Signing up for player’s clubs provides free slot play and dining discounts at respective properties.
Pack light to avoid baggage fees on budget carriers. Vegas’s dry climate means fewer clothing layers needed compared to other destinations. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle; refill stations exist throughout casinos, and staying hydrated prevents expensive medical issues in desert heat.
FAQ
What’s the absolute cheapest way to fly from Burbank to Vegas?
Combine several strategies: book ultra-low-cost carriers (Spirit/Frontier) for one carry-on bag only, travel mid-week during shoulder season, book 6-8 weeks in advance, and use price alerts. Realistic minimum fares range $50-$80 round-trip with budget airlines.
How far in advance should I book Burbank to Vegas flights?
Ideally 4-8 weeks ahead for optimal pricing. However, this route occasionally offers last-minute deals 1-2 weeks before departure. Set up price alerts to catch unexpected bargains regardless of booking window.
Are direct flights from Burbank to Vegas always cheaper than connections?
Yes, almost always. The direct flight takes one hour; connections typically add 3+ hours plus connection risk. Direct flights from Burbank rarely exceed $150 round-trip during sales, making connections economically illogical.
Which airline has the best overall value for this route?
Southwest Airlines consistently offers competitive pricing combined with generous baggage policies and customer service. For pure base fare, Spirit or Frontier win, but factor total costs including baggage and seat fees.
Can I save money by driving instead of flying?
Driving from Burbank to Vegas takes approximately 4.5-5 hours. Calculate fuel costs (roughly $15-$20 each way) plus potential hotel overnight stay if driving back same day. With cheap flights available, flying usually saves time and money.
What should I know about booking flights to Las Vegas from California airports?
California airports offer abundant competition, driving fares down. Burbank’s convenience often justifies slightly higher fares compared to LAX. Always compare total trip costs including ground transportation rather than focusing solely on base fares.
