44 Flight Booking Myths That Are Actually Wasting You Money

Myth 18: Changing Your Departure Airport Won’t Save Money

Many travelers automatically default to their nearest major airport, assuming it offers the best prices. However, smaller or secondary airports nearby often provide significantly lower fares due to reduced airport fees, lower demand, or competition from budget carriers. Some travelers even drive to nearby cities for a better deal. A ticket from Los Angeles (LAX) to Europe might be $800, but from San Diego (SAN) it could be $600—making a two-hour drive worthwhile. To maximize savings, use flight comparison tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner and check the “nearby airports” option. While not always cheaper, expanding your search radius can uncover significant savings—sometimes making a short drive or train ride worth the effort.