It’s not unusual to see cheap flights between two large cities such as Los Angeles and Houston with low-cost carriers. But sometimes the majors get involved, leading to a good deal for you. American is providing such a deal right now: Los Angeles to Houston and vice versa, direct, for $103 in basic economy (including carry-on).
This deal is available through May, and is matched on many dates by United and Spirit. However, neither of those provides the carry-on allowance that AA does. That said, should you want seat selection and/or a checked bag, the main cabin price for both AA and UA shoots up to $330+, not much of a deal at all at that price. Compare prices with your needs and book accordingly.
The Route
- Departure: LAX
- Stops: None
- Arrival: IAH
How to Book
- Follow link for sample dates or search your favorite OTA / Google Flights for departure and destination
Travel Dates
- March – May, 2019
- Stay requirement varies by date, though usually 4+
Where to Stay in Houston or Los Angeles
- Club Quarters in Houston
- DoubleTree by Hilton Houston Downtown
- Best Western Hollywood Plaza Inn
- Wyndham Santa Monica At The Pier
(SEE ALSO: Review: Peacock Suites near Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm & More)
(SEE ALSO: Review: Near Disneyland – Delta Hotels by Marriott Anaheim Garden Grove)
Things to Do in Houston or Los Angeles
- Space Center Houston
- The Houston Museum of Natural Science
- Universal Studios Hollywood
- Santa Monica Pier
- Griffiths Observatory
Good luck and happy flying!
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Dan Miller travels with his wife and 6 (SIX!) children. He loves to help families travel for free / cheap, especially larger families. If you are looking for help, drop him an email at 
You didn’t mention having an AA or United cc which would cover the cost of your checked luggage. Is this applicable on this $103. RT fare?
Another question? Do you have to take the midnight flight? Can one take a mid morning flight from LAX to IAH and arrive in early evening? Also the AA or United credit card would take care of your luggage? Yes?
Yes, co-branded cards from AA, Delta, or UA will allow checked bags; that’s a good note. I will include that information with future basic economy deals when applicable.
As for flight times, generally the airlines price each flight and flight pair differently, so the best prices may only appear on specific flights on any given day. Search the OTAs or Google Flights for specific flight s that work for you.