Bakersfield, California, doesn't have a major international airport, leaving budget travelers with some savvy planning to do. Luckily, several airports within a reasonable driving distance offer competitive prices and convenient connections. This guide will help you navigate your options to find the best airport near Bakersfield for your budget.
What are the closest airports to Bakersfield?
The closest airports to Bakersfield are Meadows Field Airport (BFL), located directly in Bakersfield, and LAX, located in Los Angeles. While BFL is convenient, its flight options are limited and often more expensive than other nearby options. LAX, while further away, offers a significantly wider range of airlines and destinations at potentially lower fares. Other options, such as Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) and Ontario International Airport (ONT), provide a balance between proximity and affordability.
Which airport is cheapest to fly into near Bakersfield?
This is heavily dependent on your destination, travel dates, and how far in advance you book. There's no single "cheapest" airport. However, Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) and Ontario International Airport (ONT) frequently offer more budget-friendly options compared to LAX, especially for domestic flights. Using flight comparison websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak, and experimenting with different dates and airports, is crucial for finding the best deal.
How far is Meadows Field Airport from Bakersfield?
Meadows Field Airport (BFL) is located directly within Bakersfield, making it incredibly convenient for local residents. The airport is small, though, limiting flight options and often resulting in higher prices.
How far is LAX from Bakersfield?
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is approximately 100 miles from Bakersfield, roughly a 2-hour drive. While it's further, LAX's extensive flight network and fierce competition often lead to lower fares, especially if you book well in advance or are flexible with your travel dates.
What are the transportation options from the airports to Bakersfield?
- Meadows Field (BFL): Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available at BFL.
- LAX: LAX offers a range of transportation options including taxis, ride-sharing, buses, and rental cars. The cost of getting from LAX to Bakersfield will be significantly higher than from BFL due to distance.
- FAT (Fresno): Similar to BFL, taxis and ride-sharing are easily accessible at FAT. The drive to Bakersfield is roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- ONT (Ontario): Taxis, ride-sharing, and rental cars are available at ONT. The drive to Bakersfield is roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Is it cheaper to fly into a smaller airport near Bakersfield?
Smaller airports like Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) often have fewer airlines and routes, but they can sometimes offer lower fares, particularly if you're flying domestically and aren't flying from a major hub city. It's essential to compare prices across all airports to determine which provides the best value.
Are there any hidden fees to consider when choosing an airport?
Be sure to factor in the cost of transportation to and from the airport, as well as potential parking fees. Parking at LAX can be very expensive, which can quickly eat into any savings you might achieve on the flight itself. Consider the total cost of your trip, including transportation, when deciding which airport is the most budget-friendly for you.
Conclusion: Finding the Best Airport for Your Budget
The best airport near Bakersfield for budget travelers is not a one-size-fits-all answer. Factors like your destination, travel dates, and flexibility greatly influence pricing. Diligent comparison shopping using flight aggregator websites and factoring in all costs (flights, transportation, parking) is crucial for securing the best deal. Don't solely focus on the flight price – the overall cost of your trip is what truly matters.
