When Flying Out of Hamilton or Buffalo is Cheaper than Toronto
With summer in full swing, travel plans are top of mind. If you’re hunting for budget-friendly ways to explore, the airport you choose can significantly impact your wallet. Increasingly, Toronto travelers are opting for John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport or Buffalo Niagara International Airport over Pearson Airport. But does this really save you money?
Considerations for Choosing an Airport
Distance and Accessibility
Buffalo’s Airport is about a two-hour drive from Toronto, requiring a border crossing. While some flights from this quieter airport are cheaper, factor in parking costs or bus tickets. Greyhound offers one-way journeys starting at $19.49.
Comparing Costs for U.S. Destinations
For trips to U.S. cities, flying from Buffalo often proves cost-effective:
• New York City: Roundtrip from Toronto costs $432-$511 in mid-August, while Buffalo offers $191-$210.
• Orlando: Toronto’s roundtrip flights are just over $600, whereas Buffalo’s are about $318.
• Denver: Approximately $524 from Toronto vs. $392 from Buffalo.
• Dallas: $534 from Toronto, $394 from Buffalo.
• Charlotte: $500 from Toronto, $180 from Buffalo.
• Washington D.C.: $334 from Toronto, $246 from Buffalo.
• Atlanta: $631 from Toronto, $162 from Buffalo.
International Destinations
Buffalo also offers savings for some international flights:
• London, England: $963 from Toronto vs. $822 from Buffalo in August.
• Paris: $1,082 from Toronto vs. $903 from Buffalo.
However, always compare flight options as prices can vary, especially during peak times.
When Toronto Pearson is the Better Option
For domestic flights, Pearson Airport often remains the cheaper choice for cities like Edmonton, Montreal, and Vancouver. Flights out of Hamilton usually have layovers at Pearson, making the drive not always worthwhile.
For example:
• Calgary: Roundtrip from Hamilton is $559, while it’s $491 from Toronto Pearson.
• Keflavik, Iceland: $631 from Hamilton vs. $822 from Toronto.
For some U.S. destinations, such as Orlando, the difference between Hamilton and Toronto isn’t significant.
Tips for Finding the Best Deals
1. Compare Dates: Flight prices can vary greatly depending on the day.
2. Double-Check Options: Review all airports and flight options before booking to potentially save hundreds of dollars.
Talk of Toronto conclusion, while flying out of Hamilton or Buffalo can offer significant savings vs flying out of Toronto, it’s essential to weigh all factors, including additional travel costs and time. By carefully comparing your options, you can make the most cost-effective choice for your travel needs.