BWI to LAX Flights: Discover Best Deals from Charm City to the City of Angels
Cheapest flight found
$110.98
Last updated Feb 16, 2026
Prices by Month
Price History
Tracking the May 7, 2026 departure — the cheapest date we found.
Search this route
From
Baltimore (BWI)
To
Los Angeles (LAX)
Track this route and save
Get email alerts when BWI to LAX prices drop. We check every hour.
Search FlightsTraveling from Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) represents a classic coast-to-coast journey across the continental United States. Whether you are flying for a high-stakes business meeting in Downtown Los Angeles or seeking the sun-drenched shores of Santa Monica and Venice Beach, this cross-country route offers a diverse range of flight options. With a flight time typically hovering around five and a half to six hours, passengers have ample opportunity to transition from the historic, seafood-rich culture of the Chesapeake Bay to the glitz and glamour of the global entertainment capital. Many airlines offer direct services, making it more convenient than ever to swap the Mid-Atlantic’s colonial charm and brick-lined streets for the iconic palm trees and Hollywood hills of Southern California.
Travel Tips
When preparing for your flight from Baltimore to Los Angeles, time management is crucial due to the three-hour time difference that can disrupt your circadian rhythm. To mitigate the effects of jet lag, try to adjust your sleep schedule a few days before departure and stay consistently hydrated throughout the long-haul flight. Because LAX is notoriously busy and spread out, consider booking your ground transportation well in advance; whether you use the LAX-it rideshare lot for Uber and Lyft or the reliable FlyAway bus service to Union Station, having a plan will save you significant stress upon arrival. At BWI, take advantage of the efficient security checkpoints, but still aim to arrive at the terminal at least two hours early, especially if you are traveling during peak morning hours when business travelers saturate the gates. Finally, pack versatile layers in your carry-on, as the temperature difference between the humid East Coast and the Mediterranean climate of Southern California can be quite stark, and airplane cabins are often kept at a chill.
Airport Information
Baltimore (BWI)
Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) serves as a major hub for the Mid-Atlantic region, located conveniently between Baltimore and Washington, D.C. It is widely praised for its accessibility, featuring a dedicated Amtrak and MARC rail station that connects passengers directly to the terminal via a free, frequent shuttle. Inside, travelers can enjoy a wide array of amenities, including a dedicated fitness center for stretching between flights, local Maryland-themed dining options like Phillips Seafood, and a unique observation gallery. As a primary base for Southwest Airlines, BWI offers a highly competitive pricing environment that often results in more affordable transcontinental fares compared to nearby Reagan National or Dulles airports.
Los Angeles (LAX)
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of the world's busiest and most iconic aviation gateways, serving as the primary entrance to Southern California. Located right along the Pacific coast, the airport features nine passenger terminals arranged in a giant U-shape, often referred to by locals as the Central Terminal Area. LAX is currently undergoing massive multi-billion dollar renovations to improve its automated people mover system and consolidate car rental services into a more efficient facility. Upon landing, visitors are greeted by the iconic mid-century modern Theme Building and have access to various luxury lounges, high-end shopping, and diverse culinary offerings that reflect the multicultural spirit and gourmet reputation of the city.
Seasonal Pricing Patterns
Flight prices for the BWI to LAX route fluctuate significantly based on the season and major regional events. Typically, the winter months—excluding the peak holiday windows around Christmas and New Year's—offer the most budget-friendly fares as tourist demand for the West Coast dips slightly. Conversely, the summer months of June through August see a spike in prices due to families vacationing and the allure of Southern California's beaches during the heat. To secure the best rates, travelers should look for 'shoulder season' bookings in late September or early May, when the weather in both cities is still pleasant but the demand for cross-country seats has subsided, often resulting in substantial savings on non-stop tickets.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the average flight from BWI to LAX?
The average non-stop flight takes approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes, though head winds when flying west can sometimes push the duration closer to 6 hours.
Which airlines offer direct flights between Baltimore and Los Angeles?
Southwest Airlines and Spirit Airlines are the primary carriers offering consistent non-stop service, while United, American, and Delta offer frequent one-stop connections through their respective hubs.
What is the time difference between Baltimore and Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is in the Pacific Time Zone, which is 3 hours behind the Eastern Time Zone used in Baltimore.
What is the best way to get from LAX to downtown Los Angeles?
The most cost-effective way is the FlyAway bus service, which runs directly to Union Station, while rideshares and private car services provide door-to-door convenience via the LAX-it pickup lot.
How far in advance should I book my BWI to LAX flight?
For the most competitive pricing, it is generally recommended to book at least 1 to 3 months in advance, particularly if you are traveling during the summer or around major holidays.