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Getting Around the U.S.

Many people underestimate the size of the United States so traveling around it while on vacation can be a bit tricky. The good news is that there are plenty of options available to choose from. The first option is of course by air. Every major city in the US is served by an airport. The size of the airports range from the biggest in the world (ex. JFK or LAX) to the tiniest which only has a few flights a day. Each has their own advantages and disadvantages. Of course when choosing a major airport, give yourself extra time as the volume of passengers is much larger. Actually everything is bigger; from the security checkpoint lines to the terminal square footage to the size of the planes. These airports are often subject to heavy delays in the case of inclement weather since flights come and go every minute so any delay backlogs the entire day. On the flipside, a regional airport is smaller and you can breeze in and out almost like your own private jet. However, should something affect your scheduled flight, you are pretty much left with little alternative. You could be sitting at the airport for days trying to get out of there. On the bight side, this is the exception rather then the norm.

Travelers may also choose train to navigate the US for their family vacation. Amtrak serves the entire United States, but traveling by train is generally not the best unless you have plenty of time on your hands. A typical east to West coast trip takes days. If you don't mind enjoying the scenery, then this is certainly an option for you. The only "decent" service is on the east coast between Boston and Washington DC (and New York in between). The time here is about the same as flying, but by train you get taken directly into the city center. So unless you are traveling the Northeast, train is generally not as good as flying.

The last option to navigate the United States is by car. Car has its advantages as you schedule your departure time and the US is very well served by major highways ranging from coast to coast and north to south. The downside of course is time and traffic and the cost of fuel. Car is the way to go when traveling under 200 miles or if you have a decent size family. However as you increase your distance, you should really evaluate the flying option.

The US gives you plenty of options to get around. Each has their advantages and disadvantages. In general flying is usually the most cost effective and time efficient but does have its drawbacks as well. Which ever option you choose, air, train or car, the US is a beautiful travel destination and any traveler can spend days if not months exploring its vast beauty and major cities. However, if you book with Flights.com you hopefully can save a few bucks and make flying your best option!