A trip to Las Vegas is always an exciting adventure. The live shows, gambling, and bright lights make it a city like no other. But getting there can be half the fun - or half the headache, depending on how you travel. So, is it better to fly or drive to Las Vegas?
It's better to fly to Las Vegas than to drive due to the time saved, ease of travel, and cost. With a flying distance of 235 miles from Los Angeles International Airport, it will take about one hour compared to four and a half hours driving 282 miles on Interstate 15.
However, before you settle on whether to fly or drive to Sin City, it's crucial to understand the pros and cons of each method of transportation. Once you know what to expect, you can make the best decision for your trip. Read on as I explore the benefits and drawbacks of flying versus driving to Las Vegas.
What's the Best Way to Get to Las Vegas?
The best way to get to Las Vegas is by flying. Although it's more expensive than driving, flying is faster and less stressful. With a flight time of around an hour, you can be in Vegas in no time. And since you don't have to worry about driving, you can relax and enjoy the flight. You also won't have to worry about the maddening traffic that often plagues Las Vegas.
While some tourists swear by driving to save money to take a spin on Las Vegas' dazzling array of slot machines or hit the tables at one of the many casinos, the cost of renting a car or driving your own can add up. The price of gas, food, and parking fees can quickly offset any savings you might realize by driving.
Flight tickets vary in price depending on the time of year, airline, and departure city. However, you can often find round-trip flights to Las Vegas for less than $200. One-way flight prices are cheaper, costing an average of $70-$100.
Plus, with the time you'll save by flying, you can extend your stay in Las Vegas or use the extra time to explore more of the city. If you're driving, you'll likely want to head back home as soon as possible to avoid the traffic.
Pros and Cons of Flying or Driving to Las Vegas
There are pros and cons to both flying and driving to Las Vegas. Here's a closer look at the key advantages and disadvantages of each method of transportation:
Pros of Flying to Las Vegas
- Time-saving: With a flight time of around an hour, flying is the fastest way to get to Las Vegas. You will save significant vacation time by flying rather than driving.
- Stress-free travel: You don't have to worry about traffic or navigation when you fly. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy the flight. When approaching Vegas, you will have a birds-eye view of the city's magnificent skyline.
- Cost-effective: Although flying is generally more expensive than driving, it can be cheaper when renting a car or driving your own. Gas prices and parking fees are also a necessary evil when driving to Las Vegas.
Cons of Flying to Las Vegas
- Airlines fees: Airlines are notorious for nickel-and-diming customers with fees for everything from checked baggage to in-flight snacks. These fees can add up, making flying more expensive than it seems at first glance.
- Costly tickets: While you can find cheap flights to Las Vegas, the cost of flight tickets can fluctuate based on the time of year and your airline. If you're not careful, you could spend more than you planned.
- Security lines: Airport security can be a pain, especially during peak travel times. You must arrive at the airport early to allow time for the TSA screening process.
- Delayed flights: Flight delays are always possible, especially during bad weather. Be prepared for the possibility of your flight being delayed or canceled. That SUCKS!
Pros of Driving to Las Vegas
The I-15 is the most common route visitors from California take. The drive takes about 4.5 hours. Here are the pros of driving to Las Vegas:
- Flexibility: When you drive, you can come and go as you please. You're not at the mercy of airline schedules or airport security lines.
- Packing: You can pack as much or as little as you want when you drive. There's no need to worry about baggage fees or weight restrictions.
- Control: When you're behind the wheel, you control your travel experience. You can make stops along the way, take detours, and change your plans on a whim.
- The drive: Cruising down the open road can be a fun experience in itself. As you take in the scenery, you can blast your favorite tunes and sing along at the top of your lungs. The drive can be a great bonding opportunity if you're traveling with friends or family. You can also carpool to split the cost of gas.
Cons of Driving to Las Vegas
- Costs quickly add up: While the initial cost of driving may be cheaper than flying, the costs quickly add up when you factor in gas, food, and hotel parking fees. Car rental from Hertz or Enterprise will cost you $70- over $100 for midsize to full-size cars. You will also have to pay for parking at your hotel, which can cost up to $30 per day.
- The I-15 is a pain: The I-15 is one of the most congested highways in the country. The drive can be a nightmare, especially during peak travel times. It also doesn't have attractive scenery. You'll likely be sick of the desert by the time you reach Vegas.
- You're on your own: While the thrill of the open road may be appealing, you're ultimately on your own when you drive. If you get lost or have car trouble, there's no one to help you. You're also at the mercy of the elements, which can be dangerous in the desert.
Final Thoughts
Flying to Sin City is the best option due to its convenience, cost-effectiveness, and safety. But driving to Las Vegas can be a fun experience if you're up for an adventure. Plan ahead to avoid the rush hour traffic, and pack plenty of snacks and water for the journey. No matter how you get there, just ensure you enjoy your time in Vegas!
