Folks, we’ve almost made it to Thanksgiving break.

As students prepare to leave Happy Valley for home, knowing where to fly from can save both time and money. While State College Regional Airport offers the convenience of flying right outside campus, it isn’t always the most affordable option.

Depending on where you are headed, driving or taking a bus to a larger airport may offer cheaper flights, more airlines, and greater flexibility.

Whether you’re flying a few states away, across the country, or even internationally, here are some airports worth considering before booking your next flight home.

State College Regional Airport (SCE):

Located just minutes from campus, State College Regional Airport is easily the most convenient option for students leaving University Park. Folks can get from campus to the airport with a short drive and avoid a long road trip before their flight.

On the other hand, convenience comes at a price. Flights out of this airport are often more expensive and offer fewer options than flights from larger airports. Most routes require a connecting flight, making it more of a hassle when going home.

For students who prioritize saving time and avoiding travel to another city, this might be the best option. It’s always worth checking, no matter what you prioritize, in case prices are reasonable.

Harrisburg International Airport (MDT):

The closest international airport, just two hours outside State College, is Harrisburg International Airport.

This airport can be a good alternative for students looking to avoid the longer drives to Pittsburgh or Philadelphia. Although it is smaller than other major airports, it still offers a variety of destinations and connecting flights.

Its location makes it a practical option for students who don’t want to travel far but need another airport to consider.

Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT):

Located three hours west of State College, Pittsburgh International Airport is another option for students willing to make the drive.

As a larger airport, Pittsburgh generally offers more airlines, destinations, and departure times than smaller airports. This can make it much easier to compare prices and find a time that works best for you.

Students can drive themselves, coordinate a ride with friends, or take the bus. However, make sure to factor in the cost of gas, parking, and additional travel time when comparing options.

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL):

For students looking for more flight options, Philadelphia International Airport is three hours away and worth considering.

It’s one of the region’s largest airports and has a wide range of domestic and international destinations. This makes it a strong option for students traveling farther away or looking for more flexibility with their departure times.

There are multiple ways to get to the Philadelphia International Airport, such as by bus, other public transportation, or carpooling.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR):

When traveling internationally, Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey is one of the best options to consider.

The drive can take about four hours from State College, but Newark offers plenty of flights to international destinations on many airlines.

It can be especially useful for students flying to Europe or other destinations where connections from smaller airports are limited or expensive. It’s also accessible by bus, making it a convenient alternative for students who would rather not drive.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) & LaGuardia Airport (LGA):

Students willing to travel a little farther for a flight can also consider New York City airport options, including John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), which offers a selection of international flights, and LaGuardia Airport (LGA).

Depending on the destination, these New York airports may offer more competitive prices and options. Getting there takes additional planning, but bus connections make the trip possible without driving.

Before You Book:

The cheapest flight is not always the cheapest trip. When comparing airports, remember to factor in gas, tolls, parking, bus tickets, and the time it takes to reach your designated airport. The best airport depends on your destination and budget. 

State College is ideal for convenience, Harrisburg offers a closer alternative to larger airports, and Pittsburgh and Philadelphia provide more flight options. For international travel, Newark and New York City may be worth the extra trip.

Before booking, compare prices across multiple airports and make sure your transportation plans are set. A little extra planning could save you money and make getting home much easier.

We recommend using a tool such as Skyscanner or Google Flights to easily compare trip prices.

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