Airlines to consider:
AirTran
Frontier Airlines
Southwest Airlines
Continental Airlines
- Tip: Like the resorts, sign up for the airline rewards programs. The more miles earned, the cheaper the flights. Don't be fooled by the credit card sign ups though. Unless you travel extensively, it's not required to accumulate points and get discount flights.
Flying to Las Vegas? If coming from a distance, like I typically do, then it is probably the most efficient way to get there. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Consider what is more important when choosing an airline. Comfort? Travel-time? Both?
If getting there on a budget gets the vote, then look towards airlines like Southwest. Typically, a flight can be booked for a relatively cheap price and bags fly free (at least they did when I traveled them). The downfall: Everyone who's anyone will try and get on the flight and as far as seating arrangements, they rarely exist.
If penny-pinching is not something that is required, then go the extra mile and book on an airline like Continental or Frontier (one of my personal favorites). Sure, it costs a little more, but the cabin has a more casual, laid-back environment, seats are assigned, and there is usually a little more leg room. Bags probably will not be free unless you travel business class, but even coach bags are only twenty bucks or so.
Unless already a member, I would highly recommend signing up for the rewards programs most airlines offer. Now, I'm not saying get a credit card and max it out to squeeze every mile out of them possible, but consider it especially if traveling is something you frequent. Personally, I am a member of rewards programs for both AirTran and Frontier just because I usually book all my flights through these two companies. I've yet to have a below average experience.
On a side note, there is always the option to book flights through third party websites, such as Expedia or Kayak. These sites are said to offer great deals on flights, hotels, etc. Be sure that the flights being offered are the ones you desire. Just because they put flights together for someone doesn't mean they will allow the maximum time in Las Vegas. To be honest, I've even been known to book several one-way flights versus one round trip package. It is possible, but make sure to allow plenty of time between flights; especially if you have to layover in a city that is not the final destination.
- Tip: If the group traveling there wants the maximum time possible in Vegas, consider taking the red-eye flight the night BEFORE check-in day. Sure, it may be result in having to experience the strip late at night until the backs of everyone's eyelids force themselves shut, but you'll thank yourself at the end. Also, red-eye flights are generally cheaper. So in addition to having more time in Sin City, more money can also be invested in Vegas; not getting there.
