I love to fly! Probably about as much as I love to ride the train.
In 2025 I’ve taken 21 flights so far and have 6 more scheduled before the end of the year. With this much time in the sky, I’ve figured out which airlines and airports are my favorites (and least favorites) for 2025-2026.
Best Budget Airlines
Allegiant
This has been my preferred budget airline for years, maybe even a decade! It’s a simple, clear, straightforward airline. Round trip tickets are often $100 per person or less. The customer service is great. And because they fly only to smaller airports, security is typically much faster and parking is typically much cheaper, or even free!
Nothing is included except your seat, but as I fly with a travel backpack on most trips, this isn’t a problem for me. I pack snacks or even buy them on board sometimes–especially since the in-flight menu is cheaper than food the airports typically offer!
The obstacles many people face when booking on Allegiant are limited routes or travel days. But if you’re looking for a more unique destination and have some flexibility on when you fly, check out Allegiant!
→ My favorite places Allegiant flies: Traverse City, MI; Bangor, ME; Minneapolis, MN
→ Tip: Book your round-trip ticket instead of one-way for extra savings
Breeze
This airline came into my life more recently, within the past couple years. Although I don’t have as much experience flying with them, Breeze has quickly grown to be one of my go-to budget airlines.
Similar to Allegiant, Breeze has limited destinations and doesn’t fly every day. But the routes are more unique and often seasonally based on Breeze. For example, I can fly direct nonstop from Jacksonville to Raleigh, a route not offered by any other airline.
The service and experience can’t be beat! Founded by the same person who started JetBlue, it’s got a similar style and feel. The planes also tend to be newer, bigger, and are rarely fully booked, so there’s often more flexibility with seating.
→ Where I want to go next with Breeze: Eugene, OR; Richmond, VA; Key West, FL
→ Tip: Check the on-board menu online with prices before you fly to save on snacks
Best Full Service Airline
Delta
For as long as I can remember Delta has been one of the top airlines for me. Although they tend to be a bit more expensive than some of the other mainstream options, the extra cost has always been worth it for me. Great customer service, seemingly unlimited destinations, and tasty snacks (hello, Biscoff cookies).
Their rewards program and frequent flyer perks are superb, too. And honestly, I just feel classy when I fly Delta! This may not be a reason to choose the airline, but it certainly doesn’t hurt.
Honorable Mentions
Southwest–It used to be my top recommendation, and still gets an honorable mention for price, customer service, and overall experience.
American Airlines–No major issues except the customer service; it’s either good or really bad.
Spirit–I know people love to hate Spirit, but it’s as straightforward as can be. For a cheap option with a lot of routes, this is one of your better options.
Airlines I Avoid
Frontier–The most inconsistent of any airline I’ve ever flown; proceed with caution.
United–It’s similar in price and route to American or Delta, but somehow just not a good experience.
I must admit that part of the charm of these airlines is the places they fly. Not just the destination, but the airports themselves! Here’s a few of my favorite airports to travel to this year:
Every regional Midwest airport, like Peoria, IL or Cedar Rapids, IA. – What can I say, I’m a Midwesterner at heart! These airports are small, usually with a handful of gates. Parking is cheap and even free in some places! And there’s a simple charm about the energy here.
MCO Terminal 3 in Orlando, FL – While this new terminal is missing the iconic carpet (IYKYK), it’s also missing the overwhelming crowds and chaos that have come to define the rest of MCO. Great shopping, iconic restaurants, and a beautiful water feature make this a great airport. Also, you can pay for parking with your toll beacon; it’s a small blessing at the end of your trip to not have to pull out your credit card!
RDU Terminal 2 in Raleigh, NC – Two words: La Farm. It’s a smaller airport but with a lot of great, unique options to keep you full and caffeinated. Plus, the shops here are more like boutiques selling things you might actually want or need with some extra pizzazz.
ORD in Chicago, IL – Iconic. This airport will always hold a special place in my heart, as it’s one of the first I ever flew out of. There’s just something about the atrium walkway with flags from all around the world that feels like home. You can’t beat the Christmas lights (or the feeling of Chicago at Christmastime). And they sell Garrett’s popcorn!
JAX in Jacksonville, FL – The airport I’ve visited most in the past two years, so this take might be skewed. But they just completed renovations that have streamlined TSA and added a new Southern Grounds coffee shop. These adjustments, plus the live piano music playing in the lobby, make Jacksonville a nice place to fly in and out of.
And my least favorite:
- Charlotte–too busy. Until they finish construction, it’s a nightmare.
- Miami–too sterile. For such a vibrant city, you’d think the airport would be more exciting?
Are you surprised by any of my choices? Whether you’re flying for work or for fun, I hope you enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
