Submit feedbackComplete travel information for your January journey
January departures from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) benefit from post-holiday fare dips and cooler, typically clear weather—though Pacific storms can occasionally disrupt schedules. Book 6–12 weeks in advance for the best transpacific fares, monitor airline promotions from Philippine Airlines, EVA Air, and Japan Airlines, and sign up for fare alerts. For airport logistics, allow three hours for international check-in, use online check-in to save time, and pre-book parking or rideshares. Nearby destinations like Santa Monica, Anaheim (Disneyland), Long Beach, and Hollywood provide convenient pre-flight stays and airport access. CTA: Search and compare Los Angeles to Manila flight deals now for January departures and lock in best fares and seats.
For international departures from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), arrive at least 3 hours before scheduled departure. In January, holiday return traffic and winter weather can create extra delays, so adding an extra 30–60 minutes for security screening and parking is wise. Use online check-in and airport curbside drop-off when available to speed your airport experience.
Yes — Philippine Airlines often operates nonstop flights between Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) year-round, including January. Availability can vary by schedule and demand, so check the airline's website and Google Flights for current nonstop options, and book early for the best fares and seat choices.
January in Los Angeles typically has cool, sometimes rainy weather; while LAX is rarely closed, storms in the region or on connecting routes can cause delays or cancellations. Expect potential ripple effects from Pacific storms, so monitor flight status, sign up for airline alerts, and allow extra transfer time if you have connections through northern hubs like Tokyo (Narita/Haneda), Seoul (ICN), or Taipei (TPE).
Popular options at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) include rideshare services (Uber/Lyft), airport shuttles, rental cars, and the LAX FlyAway bus to key points like Union Station and Hollywood. For early January departures, pre-book rides and allow extra time for traffic; if you're traveling from nearby destinations such as Santa Monica, Anaheim (Disneyland), or Long Beach, plan transfers a day earlier during busy travel windows.
Baggage allowances depend on the carrier: Philippine Airlines and many major international carriers include at least one checked bag on economy long-haul fares or offer it as part of higher fare classes. Carry-on limits are usually one standard cabin bag plus one personal item. Check the airline's January fare rules before booking — COVID-era policies and seasonal promotions can temporarily change allowances.
Travelers often combine Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) trips with nearby destinations such as Santa Monica, Anaheim (Disneyland), Hollywood/Los Angeles, Long Beach, and San Diego. In January, many passengers add pre- or post-flight stays to avoid winter travel stress, taking advantage of lower hotel rates and flexible itineraries.
January arrivals at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) are favored by pleasant dry-season weather, lower humidity, and vibrant local events. Expect faster outdoor sightseeing with daytime highs in the upper 20s°C, but factor in city traffic to Makati, Quezon City, and Tagaytay. For efficient transfers, use official taxi counters, pre-booked hotel shuttles, or ride-hailing apps; allow additional time for customs and immigration during festival dates. Currency exchange kiosks and ATMs are available in terminals, but carry some Philippine pesos for ground transit. CTA: Book your Manila transfers and check entry requirements before your January arrival to avoid delays.
US citizens may enter the Philippines visa-free for short stays (typically 30 days) but must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond their stay. January arrivals at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) still require proper arrival cards and passport checks; travelers staying longer or for work/tour require pre-approved visas. Always check the Philippine Bureau of Immigration and your airline for the latest entry rules before departure.
Baggage claim times at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) typically range from 20 to 60 minutes after arrival, depending on whether the flight is nonstop or a connecting service. January can bring moderate crowds from holiday returns and local events, so plan for up to an hour for baggage and customs clearance and consider Global Entry or similar trusted traveler options at your origin when applicable.
From Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), official airport taxis, ride-hailing apps (Grab), hotel shuttles, and pre-arranged transfers are the most reliable. Traffic can be heavy in January, especially near Makati and Quezon City during morning and evening peak hours, so allow 60–90 minutes to reach Makati and longer to Tagaytay. For quick trips into the business district, use official taxi counters inside the terminal or book a trusted pre-paid transfer.
January in Metro Manila is part of the dry/cool season with comfortable daytime temperatures around 26–30°C (79–86°F) and cooler evenings. Pack light, breathable clothing, a light jacket for evening, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes for crowds and city walking. If you plan to visit higher-altitude areas like Tagaytay nearby, include a light sweater for cooler evenings.
Yes — January hosts major local events such as the Feast of the Black Nazarene (Quiapo) which draws large crowds in early January and occasional Chinese New Year activities if the lunar calendar falls in late January. These events can increase local traffic and hotel demand near central Manila and Makati, so pre-book transfers and accommodations if attending festivals.
Manila: The Feast of the Black Nazarene (usually January 9) is a major event that attracts large crowds and increases hotel demand and traffic near Quiapo; Chinese New Year sometimes falls in late January and adds celebrations across Metro Manila. Nearby Sinulog Festival in Cebu occurs in January and can be accessed via domestic flights from MNL, increasing domestic connections. Los Angeles: January features film awards season activities and occasional cultural festivals that may affect local hotel availability and traffic to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Plan ahead: secure accommodations and pre-book transfers if traveling during festival dates. CTA: Check event calendars for Manila and Los Angeles before finalizing January travel plans.
January is one of the best months to fly to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) for favorable dry-season weather and clearer skies, making it ideal for city tours and nearby attractions like Tagaytay. Fares often ease after the New Year surge, especially mid- to late-January, so aim to book within the 6–12 week window to balance selection and price. Avoid the first-week January holiday return peak if possible. CTA: Compare January flight prices now and select a travel window that matches your budget and sightseeing plans.
Nonstop flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) provide the fastest transit (about 14–15 hours), reducing the chance of missed connections and simplifying baggage handling. Connecting flights, typically via Tokyo (NRT/HND), Taipei (TPE), Seoul (ICN), or Hong Kong (HKG), may cut ticket costs and offer daytime arrival options but add layover time and potential for weather-related delays in January. Choose nonstop for comfort and reliability during winter travel; choose connecting itineraries to save money while allowing generous layover buffers. CTA: Evaluate nonstop and connecting options on price and total travel time before booking your January trip.
Philippine Airlines: Often the only nonstop operator between Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), offering the fastest travel time (~14–15 hours) and direct baggage handling. Ideal for travelers prioritizing convenience. EVA Air and Japan Airlines: Competitive one-stop options through Taipei (TPE) and Tokyo (NRT/HND) respectively, often with modern widebody cabins and frequent promotions in January; these can be cheaper but add layover time. Cathay Pacific and Korean Air: Alternative one-stop choices via Hong Kong (HKG) or Seoul (ICN) with quality service and alliance benefits. Compare seats (economy vs premium economy vs business), baggage allowances, and total travel time when choosing a carrier for January travel. CTA: Compare airline fares and seat maps for January LAX–MNL flights to pick the best balance of price and comfort.
Pack light breathable clothing plus a light jacket for cooler Manila evenings and a rain jacket for potential LA winter showers. Combat jet lag on the LAX–MNL route by adjusting sleep three days before travel, staying hydrated in flight, and planning light activity on arrival day to acclimate to Philippine time. For festival dates (e.g., Feast of the Black Nazarene), pre-book transport and expect increased crowds and security checkpoints. Keep printed and digital copies of travel documents and check both US and Philippine entry advisories before departure. CTA: Prepare your January packing list and sign up for airline alerts to stay informed about schedule changes.
Nonstop flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) typically take about 14–15 hours. Connecting itineraries via Tokyo (Narita/Haneda), Taipei (Taoyuan), Seoul (Incheon), or Hong Kong usually add 3–8 hours of layover time, producing total travel times of 17–24+ hours. January schedules may include fewer frequencies on some carriers; check early-morning or late-evening departures to arrive in Manila during daytime hours for easier immigration and ground transport. For real-time schedule planning, compare Philippine Airlines nonstop options with one-stop alternatives on Japan Airlines and EVA Air. CTA: Check live schedules and pick the itinerary that balances price with total travel time for January.
To secure cheap flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in January, search flexible dates (±3 days), use fare alerts, and compare multi-airline itineraries that combine carriers like EVA Air or Japan Airlines through Asian hubs. Mid-week departures, red-eye flights, and mid-to-late January often yield lower prices after the holiday peak. Consider connecting flights through Tokyo (NRT/HND), Taipei (TPE), or Seoul (ICN) for deeper discounts versus nonstop routes. Book when prices drop below historical averages and lock fares with 24–72 hour hold options if available. CTA: Start a fare alert today to capture January Manila deals from LAX.