The carriers and loyalty programs worth booking when your trip is better served by air.
The right airline depends on where you fly, what you pack, and how much flexibility you need. We weigh fare value, route coverage, seat comfort, checked-bag policies, and the usefulness of the loyalty program for a typical US traveler.
8.3
Two free checked bags and no change fees make it the default for families and shifting plans.
Domestic round trips typically $150 to $380; Wanna Get Away fares are cheapest.
8.0
The largest US international network and strong Star Alliance redemptions.
Domestic round trips $180 to $550; international economy $600 to $1,400.
8.0
More legroom and free Wi-Fi on most domestic routes.
Domestic round trips typically $180 to $450; Mint starts around $600.
7.9
Best schedule coverage up and down the coast plus oneworld perks.
West Coast round trips typically $160 to $420; Hawaii around $350 to $700.
Southwest is hard to beat for families because of two free checked bags and no change fees. That alone often offsets a slightly higher base fare.
On international trips and routes where schedule reliability matters, United, Air France, and other full-service carriers usually include more in the base fare and offer better rebooking protection.
Which counter to book depends on whether you are optimizing for time or daily rate.
The apps worth installing before a trip that includes any time outdoors.
Where to focus your stays if you want the most value back from a hotel program.
For a 300 mile corridor trip between two downtowns, here is how the two options actually compare.
