Fly American from Washington to Seattle

So, you've boldly decided to embark on a grand adventure, swapping the George Washington reenactments and revolutionary trends of Virginia for the hipster vibe and flying fish in Seattle. Perhaps you're waving ta-ta to 'Old Dominion' and saying 'howdy' to the 'Emerald City', or maybe it's an impulsive "last-minute flights" kind of decision. Regardless, we’re pretty sure that Forrest Gump must have been talking about booking flights when he said, "Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get."

Let's begin with the coveted "Non-stop" flight, the holy grail for those who refuse to spend precious hours lounging in another city's airport on an unsolicited "Layover". Imagine being strapped into a metal vehicle ascending miles above solid ground. You're defying gravity, there's unlimited soda, and you've got approximately six square feet all to yourself for the next six hours. This is living, folks.

Oh, so you desire something more refined? Enter "First-class", where the drinks aren't just soda but reach the austere levels of bubbly champagnes and sophisticated bourbons. We are talking about legroom that insists on doing the splits and a smorgasbord of food choices that would make any food critic salivate. The ideal choice if the goal is to strut off the plane into the Seattle rains feeling like the celebrity doppelgänger you wish you were.

Maybe you're the frugal type, hunting for those elusive "Cheap flights" that seem to appear only in enchanted forests and under double rainbows. Tips on getting these can fill a hefty guide. Do you book on a Tuesday at 3 am under a full moon? Or is it best to reserve precisely 66 days and 4 hours before the "Flight schedule"? While the best time to book is contentious in the mythical world of airfare, ensuring your wallet stays pleasantly plump often depends on flexibility. A one-way ticket or a red-eye flight can provide substantial savings. Even more so if you don't mind playing in-flight footsie with your neighbor during a lengthy layover.

Then, there’s the “Mileage program.” If you're a frequent flyer, joining one could net you free flights or upgrades. Or in the least, earn you the delightful opportunity to give your suitcase its own seat because, who knows, it has feelings too, right? Besides, there's something quite satisfying about your flights facilitating future flights. The circle of life Lion King talking-scale epic!

A lower-tier "Economy class" seat doesn’t mean you need to miss out on the fun. Sure, the chicken or pasta option might be shrugged at by a Michelin star chef, and getting crammed between snoring Grandpa Joe and a stranger who refuses to acknowledge the armrest boundary can dampen spirits, but who said you can't have fun in Economy? Bring along a travel pillow, find an audiobook of that bestseller you've been meaning to read, and voila! Your flight time transforms into bonus 'me' time.

Now, let's talk "Baggage allowance". Unless your name is Mary Poppins, chances are you're not getting your whole room into that one tiny bag. To avoid surprise fees that could potentially double your ticket cost, weigh your suitcase before you leave. Remember, those souvenirs from the Smithsonian can weigh more than you think.

Flying isn't just about getting from point A to point B, it's about the journey, too. So, hop on your broomstick, catch a ride on Falcor, or just book that seat on an American carrier. Your Washington to Seattle adventure is just a few clicks away. May your travels be merry, your flights smooth, and your layovers enlightening.