Taking a direct flight from Vancouver to Seattle covers a distance of 142 miles. However, this is often expensive. So, instead of taking a direct flight, choose a connecting flight and travel to Seattle through various routes, making your travel affordable. This guide will cover the seven cheapest routes from Vancouver to Seattle, including tips for finding the best flight deals.
Important cheap routes from Vancouver to Seattle's Seaport City
1. Direct Flights from Vancouver International Airport to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
This route between Vancouver and Seattle is a direct flight from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Multiple airlines offer daily flights, making finding a departure time that fits your schedule easy.
Available Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
- Air Canada
- Delta Air Lines
2. Indirect Flights via Portland International Airport (PDX)
Another budget-friendly option is to book an indirect flight that connects through Portland International Airport (PDX). Although this adds a stopover, it can significantly reduce the overall cost of your trip.
Affordable ways to book a flight via PDX
- Check Budget Airlines: Budget carriers often offer lower fares for flights connecting through PDX.
- Avoid Peak Times: Early morning or late-night flights are usually cheaper, even with a stopover.
- Compare One-Way Tickets: Sometimes, booking two one-way tickets can be cheaper than a round-trip fare, especially with different airlines.
Available Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- Southwest Airlines
3. Flights via Bellingham International Airport (BLI)
Bellingham International Airport (BLI) is located just south of the Canadian border and is an excellent option for travelers looking to save on airfare. Bellingham to Seattle flights are often cheaper, and the proximity to Vancouver makes it a convenient option.
Hacks to get inexpensive flights via BLI
- Consider Ground Transportation: Drive or take a shuttle from Vancouver to Bellingham; the savings on the flight can more than make up for the extra travel time.
- Look for Deals: Keep an eye on flash sales or special promotions from airlines like Alaska Airlines, which frequently operate flights from BLI to SEA.
Available Airlines
4. Combination of Flight and Train Travel
For an alternative experience, consider flights from Vancouver to Seattle on a budget airline and then taking Amtrak’s Cascades train for the rest of your journey. This combination can offer savings and a scenic ride along the coast.
Book a low-cost flight
- Book Train Tickets in Advance: Amtrak tickets are cheaper when booked in advance, especially during off-peak hours.
- Watch for Discounts: Amtrak frequently offers discounts for students, seniors, and AAA members.
Available Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
- Air Canada
5. Flights via Abbotsford International Airport (YXX)
Abbotsford International Airport (YXX) is another viable option for those looking to fly to Seattle on a budget. Located about an hour’s drive from Vancouver, Abbotsford offers flights that are often significantly cheaper than those from YVR.
Use these methods to drop the flight prices
- Carpool or Shuttle to Abbotsford: Splitting the cost of transportation to YXX with other travelers can make this option even more economical.
- Check for Low-Cost Carriers: Airlines like WestJet often operate flights from Abbotsford to Seattle at lower prices.
Available Airlines
6. Cross-Border Bus And Flight Combination
Another cost-saving strategy is to take a bus from Vancouver to a U.S. airport like Bellingham or even directly to Seattle, then catch a domestic flight from there. Bus services like Quick Shuttle provide comfortable and affordable transportation across the border.
Available Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
7. Flights via Victoria International Airport (YYJ)
For those looking to add a bit of adventure to their journey, consider flying from Vancouver to Victoria International Airport (YYJ) and then taking a connecting flight or ferry to Seattle. This option allows you to explore another beautiful city along the way.
Make your trip pefect using these tips
- Use Regional Airlines: Airlines like Pacific Coastal Airlines offer competitive rates from Vancouver to Victoria.
- Consider the Ferry: The ferry from Victoria to Seattle is a scenic and cost-effective option if you have extra time.
- Book in Shoulder Seasons: Traveling in the spring or fall can yield lower fares and a less crowded experience.
Available Airlines
Smart Advice before Booking Cheap Flights
- If you frequently fly between Vancouver and Seattle, purchase the loyalty membership and earn points. You can use them later to book a flight or get a discount.
- Book your flight through a third party. They compare the prices of different available airlines and offer the best flight deals for their customers.
- Prices tend to rise as the departure date approaches, so book your flight at least 1 to 3 months to save money.
- Sign up for fare alerts on travel websites to be notified of price drops on this route.
- If possible, choose to fly midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday), as flights are generally cheaper on these days.
- Some travel sites offer discounts if you book a multi-city itinerary that includes both a flight and a train ride.
- Bundle Your Travel: Some travel agencies offer bundles that include bus tickets and flights, often at a discounted rate.
- Ride-sharing to the bus terminal or airport can further reduce costs.
- Avoid Weekend Travel: Weekday travel is typically cheaper and less crowded.
Conclusion
Vancouver to Seattle is a busy route. Therefore, passengers often get an expensive flight ticket on this route. However, by exploring different routes and using various tips, one can drop the price of their flight ticket. Multiple airlines provide direct and connecting flights and take passengers from Vancouver to Seattle. Go through the information above and learn various available routes and enough tips to save money on flight travel.
