$318 Economy Roundtrip to Las Vegas (ABQ-LAS) in Dec from Albuquerque

December travel from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) to Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) sees a mix of holiday peak travelers and bargain seekers. Early December often offers the best discounted fares, while the period around December 20–28 is busiest and most expensive. Travelers should note the one-hour time difference (LAS is behind ABQ), expect colder mornings in the Albuquerque metro and possible road impacts near Santa Fe and Taos, and factor in longer parking and security times at ABQ during holiday events. Nearby cities commonly using ABQ include Santa Fe, Taos, Rio Rancho, and Los Alamos — plan connections accordingly. Book cheap flights early, sign up for fare alerts, and use mobile boarding passes to streamline your December departure. CTA: Compare ABQ to LAS December fares and book early to secure the best price.

Departing from Albuquerque (ABQ) FAQs

Nonstop flights between Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) and Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) usually take about 1 hour and 20 minutes in the air. Total travel time should account for check-in, security, and the one-hour time difference (LAS is typically one hour behind ABQ in December), so plan for roughly 3 to 4 hours door-to-door. Check airline schedules for the exact block time before booking.

Yes — several carriers operate nonstop service on the ABQ–LAS route in December, with Southwest Airlines typically offering the most frequent nonstops. Seasonal schedules may add or reduce frequency, so check current timetables and book early for holiday travel. Nonstop flights are the fastest option for Albuquerque to Las Vegas trips.

December in Albuquerque can bring cold mornings and occasional snow in the surrounding high desert, occasionally affecting schedules. While ABQ typically clears runways quickly, winter storms in the region or at connecting hubs can cause delays, so allow extra connection time and sign up for airline alerts. Check both ABQ and LAS airport advisories on the day of travel.

ABQ experiences a holiday peak during mid-to-late December with higher TSA checkpoint wait times and fuller parking lots. For domestic flights to Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), arrive at least 90 minutes before departure during peak holiday days and two hours if you need to check bags. Use online check-in and mobile boarding passes to speed up your airport experience.

Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) offers short- and long-term parking, ride-hailing pickup zones, taxis, and rental car counters on-site. Parking reservations and off-airport shuttles are helpful during December when demand rises. If you plan to leave a car and fly to Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), compare long-term parking rates and consider pre-booking a rental car at the LAS arrival.

Yes — Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) serves as the regional gateway to Santa Fe, Taos, Los Alamos and Rio Rancho, making it convenient to drive from these areas to ABQ for flights to Harry Reid International Airport (LAS). Allow extra driving time for winter road conditions in December and consider flying midweek for lower fares. Park-and-fly or regional shuttles are good options when combining local sightseeing with your flight.

Arriving at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) in December places you in the heart of Las Vegas holiday activity. Expect slightly cooler evenings and higher visitor volumes for holiday shows and New Year's celebrations; book hotels and rideshare early. LAS serves as a hub to the Las Vegas Strip, Henderson, North Las Vegas, Boulder City, and onward flights to Los Angeles and Phoenix. For smooth arrivals, pre-book transfers, check baggage policies for your carrier, and use arrival curbside services when available. CTA: Secure ground transport from Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) ahead of your December arrival to avoid holiday delays.

Arriving at Las Vegas (LAS) FAQs

Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) offers rental cars, ride-hailing pickup zones, taxis, and the RTC public bus for arrivals from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ). During December, holiday traffic and New Year's Eve crowds can increase wait times for taxis and rideshares; consider pre-booking a rental car or using official airport shuttle services. For downtown Las Vegas or the Strip, shared shuttles and ride-hailing typically provide the most direct service.

Yes — Las Vegas hosts numerous December events including holiday concerts, seasonal shows, and major New Year's Eve activities on the Strip that increase arrivals to Harry Reid International Airport (LAS). Expect higher demand for hotels and ground transport around event dates, especially the last week of December. Book accommodations and transport in advance to avoid premium rates.

December in Las Vegas is generally mild and dry with daytime highs in the mid-50s to low 60s °F and cooler evenings; snow is rare but possible in surrounding higher elevations. Pack layers for temperature swings between day and night and for outdoor holiday events on the Strip. Check local forecasts before travel for hotel and event planning.

For domestic arrivals from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) processes are straightforward with no passport control required; security screening occurs before departure, not on arrival. During December peaks, baggage claim and ground-transport queues may be longer. Allow 20–40 minutes to exit the airport in typical conditions and more during holiday surges.

Absolutely — Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) is a major hub with frequent onward flights to Los Angeles, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, Denver, and several East Coast destinations. If your itinerary continues after landing from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), allow at least 1.5–2 hours for connections to avoid missing tight onward flights during December event peaks. Many travelers use LAS as the gateway for short hops across the Southwest.

Travelers arriving at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) commonly continue to the Las Vegas Strip, Henderson, North Las Vegas, Boulder City, and regional destinations like Los Angeles or Phoenix. For winter day trips, Red Rock Canyon and Hoover Dam are popular and easily accessible from LAS. Plan transportation ahead, especially on event-heavy dates in December.

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December Events & Festivals — Albuquerque to Las Vegas Travel Highlights

December brings holiday lights, concerts, and New Year's crowds that affect ABQ–LAS travel. In Albuquerque, look for seasonal attractions like the 'River of Lights' at ABQ BioPark Gardens and Old Town holiday markets; these can increase departure-day traffic to Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ). In Las Vegas, major draws include holiday residencies, holiday-themed shows, and the extensive New Year's Eve celebration on the Strip — all of which increase arrivals at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) and demand for hotels and ground transport. Expect higher fares and fuller flights around major event dates. CTA: Plan event attendance and book both flights and hotels early for December ABQ to LAS travel.

Best Time to Fly ABQ to LAS in December — Save Money & Avoid Crowds

The best time to fly from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) to Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in December is early December on midweek days (Tuesday–Thursday) when fares and crowds are lower. Early morning flights often have fewer delays and lower fares, while the busiest and most expensive days are typically the week of December 20–28 and New Year's Eve. For both cheaper fares and smoother airport experiences, book well before the holidays and consider red-eye or very early departures. CTA: Search flexible dates to find the ideal balance of price and convenience for your ABQ to LAS December trip.

Direct vs Connecting Flights: ABQ to LAS in December

Nonstop flights from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) to Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) are the fastest option, typically taking about 1 hour 20 minutes in the air and avoiding additional layover risk. Connecting flights via Phoenix (PHX), Denver (DEN), or Dallas (DFW) can sometimes save money but add several hours and increased delay risk during December holiday weather. For time-sensitive December travel (holiday gatherings or events in Las Vegas), nonstops are recommended; for deeply discounted fares or complex itineraries, connecting flights may be acceptable. CTA: Compare nonstop and connecting itineraries to decide whether ABQ to LAS nonstop flights in December are worth the premium for your schedule.

Airline Comparison for ABQ to LAS — December Options

Southwest Airlines often provides the most frequent nonstop service between Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) and Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) with competitive fares and two free checked bags, making it attractive for December holiday travelers. American Airlines may offer nonstop or one-stop options with varied fare classes and standard checked-bag fees; it can be useful for connecting itineraries. Delta Air Lines typically offers fewer direct options and may be a good choice for SkyMiles members or connecting flights through a Delta hub. Compare total trip cost—base fare plus baggage and seat fees—when choosing your carrier for December travel. CTA: Check live fares and baggage rules for each airline before booking ABQ to LAS flights this December.

Seasonal Travel Tips for ABQ to LAS in December

Pack in layers for December travel between Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) and Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) to account for desert daytime warmth and cooler evenings. Check weather forecasts for both the Albuquerque metro and Las Vegas before travel, and build in extra time for holiday crowds at ABQ and for New Year's Eve surges at LAS. Use mobile check-in, download airline apps for real-time alerts, and consider travel insurance or flexible fares during the busy holiday period. CTA: Review these seasonal tips and update your packing and timing to ensure a smooth ABQ to LAS December trip.

ABQ to LAS Flight Time & Schedules in December

Nonstop flight time between Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) and Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) is typically 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes of flight time. Including boarding and taxi times, expect block times of roughly 1.5–2 hours. Remember Las Vegas is usually one hour behind Albuquerque in December (ABQ = Mountain Time, LAS = Pacific Time), so schedule planners should adjust arrival times accordingly. Typical daily schedules include early morning departures (6:00–8:30), midday flights (10:00–14:00), and evening flights (16:00–21:00), with higher frequency on weekends and around holidays. CTA: Check live schedules from your preferred airline for exact December departure times and book the slot that best matches your itinerary.

Cheap Flights ABQ to LAS in December — Tips & Deals

To find cheap flights from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) to Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in December, search early (6–8 weeks out) for the best inventory, and monitor midweek departure dates (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) which often show lower fares. Use fare alerts, flexible-date searches, and consider red-eye or early-morning flights for deeper discounts. Avoid peak holiday windows (Dec 20–28) when prices spike. Consider one-way tickets or mixing airlines for lower round-trip pricing, and always compare baggage fees and cancellation policies for final savings. CTA: Set fare alerts for ABQ to LAS December and book when prices drop.

Tips

Book early December travel 6–8 weeks ahead for the best deals.
Fly midweek and avoid peak holiday travel dates.
Use flexible-date search tools and fare alerts for price drops.
Compare total cost including baggage and seat fees, not just base fare.

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✈️ Flight Guide: Albuquerque (ABQ) → Las Vegas (LAS)

Complete travel information for your December journey

Departing from Albuquerque (ABQ) FAQs

What is the typical flight time from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) to Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in December?

Are there nonstop flights from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) to Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in December?

What should I expect for weather-related delays departing Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) in December?

How busy is Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) during December holidays and how early should I arrive?

What ground transportation and parking options are available at Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) for trips to Las Vegas?

Can I combine a trip to Santa Fe or Taos with a flight from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) to Las Vegas in December?

Arriving at Las Vegas (LAS) FAQs

What ground transportation options are available at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) when arriving from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) in December?

Are there seasonal events in Las Vegas that might affect arrivals at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in December?

What is the weather like when arriving at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) in December?

How long does customs or security take at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) for domestic arrivals from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)?

Can I fly into Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) and connect to nearby destinations like Los Angeles or Phoenix in December?

What nearby cities do travelers often visit after arriving at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in December?