Cheapest months to fly to Allentown
Allentown doesn't get the same flight traffic as Philadelphia or New York, which actually works in your favor. Because ABE serves a smaller regional market, fares tend to behave more predictably — they're cheaper during the post-holiday lull in January and February, and they spike hard around summer weekends when the Lehigh Valley fills up with visitors. Business travel on routes like Chicago and Atlanta drives midweek pricing up, so if you're flying leisure, aim for Saturday departures. The holiday crush from Thanksgiving through New Year hits ABE just like everywhere else, so book early or brace yourself.
Why visit Allentown?
The Lehigh Valley is genuinely underrated. Allentown sits in a stretch of Pennsylvania that most people drive through without stopping, which is a mistake. The Delaware Water Gap is close enough for a day hike, and the area has serious craft beer culture — Pennsylvania's brewing scene isn't just a Pittsburgh thing. History buffs come for the Liberty Bell Museum, which housed the actual bell during the Revolutionary War. Foodies are starting to pay attention too, as the city's growing Latino community has built a legitimate restaurant scene around authentic Puerto Rican and Dominican food. And for business travelers, the Lehigh Valley is home to a cluster of logistics, healthcare, and manufacturing companies that keep the airport busy year-round.
Popular non-stop routes into Allentown
Routes with the most airline competition tend to have the best fare options:
- Chicago (ORD) → ABE — 2 airlines
- Atlanta (ATL) → ABE — 1 airline
- Charlotte (CLT) → ABE — 1 airline
- Denver (DEN) → ABE — 1 airline
- Fort Lauderdale (FLL) → ABE — 1 airline
- Fort Myers (RSW) → ABE — 1 airline
- Melbourne (MLB) → ABE — 1 airline
- Myrtle Beach (MYR) → ABE — 1 airline
Tips for getting a cheap fare to Allentown
Flying out of Chicago into ABE in February is where I'd start looking — that ORD-ABE route can throw up some genuinely low fares during winter's slow stretch. Set a fare alert and check a few weeks before your travel date, since ABE occasionally sees last-minute price drops on thinner routes. If fares look rough, Philadelphia (PHL) is about an hour's drive and carries far more competition, which usually means lower prices. ABE serves 14 non-stop destinations, so connecting through Charlotte or Atlanta is often your best move from further south. No visa complications for US domestic travel — just show up.
Frequently asked questions about cheap flights to Allentown
What's the cheapest month to fly to Allentown (ABE)?
January, February, and September typically offer the lowest fares to Allentown as they fall outside peak travel seasons. Avoid flying during summer months (June-August) and holidays when prices spike significantly.
How far in advance should I book flights to get the best price?
Booking 4-6 weeks in advance generally yields the best fares to Allentown. However, for domestic US flights, you can sometimes find deals by booking 2-3 weeks ahead or catching last-minute sales.
Are there cheaper airports near Allentown I should consider?
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is about 50 miles away and often has cheaper flights than Allentown's Lehigh Valley International (ABE) due to more competition and direct routes. Newark (EWR) and New York area airports may also offer competitive pricing.
What's the typical fare range for flights to Allentown?
Domestic round-trip fares to Allentown typically range from $200-$400 during off-peak seasons, while peak season prices can reach $400-$700 or more. Budget airlines and advance bookings can sometimes yield fares under $150 each way.
What are the visa requirements for visiting the USA?
Citizens of most developed countries can enter the USA visa-free for up to 90 days under the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA authorization required online). Other visitors must apply for a B-1/B-2 tourist visa through a US embassy or consulate in their home country.