Major events and festivals influence demand and economy fares from Denver International Airport (DEN). High-demand dates include the National Western Stock Show (January), Denver PrideFest (June), Great American Beer Festival (October) and large concert or sporting events at Ball Arena or Empower Field. Nearby destination festivals in Phoenix, Las Vegas and California markets can also increase flight prices; plan early or avoid these weekends to secure the cheapest economy fares.
The cheapest economy fares from Denver International Airport (DEN) are often found for Tuesday–Thursday departures and during shoulder months (January, February, September, October). For summer travel, book 6–10 weeks in advance; for winter holidays, book several months ahead. Travel midweek and at off-peak times (early morning redeyes) to save on economy fares. Flexibility with dates and airports is the single most effective strategy to find the lowest fares.
Nonstop flights from Denver International Airport (DEN) are faster and reduce the risk of missed connections, but connecting flights are often cheaper in economy class due to lower demand for direct services on some routes. Connecting itineraries can save money but add total travel time and increase baggage-handling complexity. For the cheapest economy fares, compare nonstop and one-stop options, but factor in layover length, potential for delays and baggage transfer times when choosing connecting routes.
Frontier and Spirit (where available) typically offer the lowest base economy fares from Denver International Airport (DEN) but charge extra for baggage and seat selection. Southwest often provides competitive economy fares with two free checked bags on many domestic routes, making them cost-effective for travelers with luggage. United, American and Delta offer extensive networks with frequent nonstops and bundled perks on higher economy classes. Compare total trip cost (fare + ancillaries) when selecting the cheapest airline.
Seasonal strategies are vital to finding the cheapest economy fares from Denver International Airport (DEN). In winter, watch for ski-season surges and consider early-December midweek travel for savings. Spring shoulder months (March, April) often provide bargains—book midweek and use flexible-date searches. Summer requires early booking for economy seats; consider redeyes and alternate airports. Fall (September–October) is one of the best seasons for cheap economy travel—use that window to travel on lower fares. Always account for weather-related disruptions and build buffer time for connections during winter.
Typical nonstop economy flight times from Denver International Airport (DEN) to budget destinations: Las Vegas (LAS) ~1 hour 45 minutes; Phoenix (PHX) ~2 hours 15 minutes; Los Angeles (LAX) ~2 hours 30 minutes; Chicago (ORD) ~2 hours 40 minutes; Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) ~2 hours 20 minutes. Early morning and late-night (redeye) departures often have lower fares. Check schedules for increased frequency during summer and holiday periods, and aim for flights departing midweek for the most budget-friendly options.
To secure the cheapest economy flights from Denver International Airport (DEN), use flexible-date searches, set fare alerts, and compare routes to nearby airports. Prioritize low-cost carriers like Frontier and Southwest for domestic economy savings, and consider mixed-carrier itineraries to lower cost. Book midweek and off-peak hours, look at one-way pricing to mix-and-match carriers, and use rewards points for discounts. Always calculate the total door-to-door cost including baggage, seat selection and ground transfers to determine the true cheapest option.