Can I book a multi-island pass for the Eastern Caribbean?

No comprehensive multi-island pass exists. LIAT 2020 occasionally offers promotional packages, but you'll typically need to book each flight separately. Some travel agents specialize in Caribbean island-hopping and can help coordinate bookings.

What happens if my flight gets cancelled due to weather?

Airlines will rebook you on the next available flight at no extra charge, but this could be days later on less-served routes. Travel insurance that covers weather delays is essential. Have backup accommodation options and don't schedule tight connections.

Are there baggage restrictions I should know about?

Small aircraft often have strict weight limits. LIAT allows 44 lbs checked bags, while smaller carriers may limit you to 25-35 lbs. Excess baggage fees are expensive and space isn't guaranteed. Pack light and be prepared to pay extra or leave items behind.

Can I use miles or points for inter-island flights?

Very limited options. Most Caribbean carriers aren't part of major alliance programs. American Airlines miles can sometimes be used on LIAT, but availability is poor. Plan to pay cash for these flights.

Should I book return flights or one-way tickets?

One-way tickets give you more flexibility for island-hopping, but they're often more expensive. If you know your exact dates and route, round-trip or open-jaw tickets through a travel agent might save money. Consider the trade-off between cost and flexibility.

How to Book Inter-Island Flights in the Eastern Caribbean

Book inter-island flights through LIAT 2020, Caribbean Airlines, or local carriers like SVG Air and Winair. Most routes require connections through major hubs like Barbados, Antigua, or St. Maarten. Book 2-4 weeks ahead for better prices, expect to pay $150-400 per flight, and always have backup options since weather delays are common.

Identify your route and hub connections. Map out which islands you want to visit and identify the major hubs you'll need to connect through. Barbados serves the southern Caribbean, Antigua covers the northern Leewards, and St. Maarten handles the northern islands. Direct flights between smaller islands are rare.
Check LIAT 2020 first for most routes. Start with LIAT 2020's website or call their reservations. They're the primary inter-island carrier covering most Eastern Caribbean routes. Book directly through their website or by phone, as third-party sites often don't show their full schedule.
Research regional and local carriers. Check Caribbean Airlines for Trinidad connections, SVG Air for St. Vincent routes, Winair for smaller Dutch islands, and Seaborne Airlines for USVI/Puerto Rico connections. Each carrier has different booking systems and schedules.
Book 2-4 weeks in advance. Eastern Caribbean flights fill up quickly, especially during peak season (December-April). Book as soon as your dates are firm. Last-minute flights can cost double and may not be available.
Build in buffer time for connections. Allow at least 2-3 hours between connecting flights. Weather delays are frequent, and missing a connection can strand you for days since many routes only operate daily or every other day.
Have backup plans ready. Identify alternative routes and carriers before you travel. Keep phone numbers for local airlines handy. Consider staying an extra night at connection points if your final destination has limited flight frequency.

Can I book a multi-island pass for the Eastern Caribbean?: No comprehensive multi-island pass exists. LIAT 2020 occasionally offers promotional packages, but you'll typically need to book each flight separately. Some travel agents specialize in Caribbean island-hopping and can help coordinate bookings.
What happens if my flight gets cancelled due to weather?: Airlines will rebook you on the next available flight at no extra charge, but this could be days later on less-served routes. Travel insurance that covers weather delays is essential. Have backup accommodation options and don't schedule tight connections.
Are there baggage restrictions I should know about?: Small aircraft often have strict weight limits. LIAT allows 44 lbs checked bags, while smaller carriers may limit you to 25-35 lbs. Excess baggage fees are expensive and space isn't guaranteed. Pack light and be prepared to pay extra or leave items behind.
Can I use miles or points for inter-island flights?: Very limited options. Most Caribbean carriers aren't part of major alliance programs. American Airlines miles can sometimes be used on LIAT, but availability is poor. Plan to pay cash for these flights.
Should I book return flights or one-way tickets?: One-way tickets give you more flexibility for island-hopping, but they're often more expensive. If you know your exact dates and route, round-trip or open-jaw tickets through a travel agent might save money. Consider the trade-off between cost and flexibility.