✈️ Flight Guide: Durham (RDU) → Fort Myers (RSW)

May brings a mix of events that can impact flights and accommodations for RDU→RSW travelers. In the Raleigh-Durham area, university commencements (Duke University, North Carolina State University) and spring festivals increase departures from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU). In Southwest Florida, May features spring fishing tournaments, beach and seafood events leading into Memorial Day weekend, plus local art walks in Fort Myers and Naples. These events can raise demand and prices—book early and plan around key dates if you want lower fares. CTA: Check local event calendars for RDU and RSW before booking May travel to avoid sold-out hotels and higher fares.

The best time to fly from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) to Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in May is during early- to mid-week dates outside Memorial Day weekend. Early May often offers the lowest fares and lighter crowds, while late May—especially the holiday weekend—sees higher prices and fuller flights. For the ideal balance, book midweek flights and aim to purchase tickets 3–8 weeks in advance. CTA: Search midweek May dates now to find the best fares for your RDU to RSW trip.

Nonstop flights from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) to Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) are the fastest option when available, shaving transfer time and reducing disruption risk. Connecting flights, often routed through hubs like Charlotte (CLT) or Atlanta (ATL), can be cheaper and offer more schedule flexibility in May but add layover time and the potential for missed connections. For Memorial Day travel or large-group trips, nonstops (if offered) provide convenience; for budget-conscious travelers, one-stop itineraries booked with reasonable connection times are a reliable alternative. CTA: Compare nonstop and one-stop options now to find the best May itinerary for your needs.

American, Delta, United, JetBlue, and Spirit each serve the broader RDU–RSW market either via direct seasonal flights or one-stop connections. Legacy carriers like American and Delta often provide more reliable connection options through their hubs (CLT, ATL) and better checked-bag policies for premium fares, while low-cost carriers such as Spirit and JetBlue may offer lower base fares but charge for carry-on and seat selections. For May travel, compare total cost (fare + fees), schedule convenience, and loyalty program benefits—if you value speed and fewer connections, prioritize carriers offering nonstop service; if you prioritize price, look at basic economy fares on low-cost carriers. CTA: Compare total trip costs across airlines to find the best May option for your RDU→RSW flight.

Pack light for May travel from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) to Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW): bring sun protection, breathable clothing, and a light rain jacket for occasional showers. Reserve rental cars in advance as demand rises heading into summer; consider off-airport rental locations to save money. For departures from RDU, allow extra time around college graduations and Memorial Day weekend; for arrivals at RSW, pre-book shuttles for Sanibel or Naples to avoid wait times. CTA: Prepare now—book rental cars and set flight alerts for May to streamline your RDU→RSW trip.

Typical nonstop flight time between Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) and Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), when offered, is around 2 hours 20 minutes to 2 hours 40 minutes. Many itineraries in May use one connection with common hubs being Charlotte (CLT), Atlanta (ATL), and Philadelphia (PHL); total travel time for one-stop routes often ranges from 4 to 6 hours depending on layover length. For May travel, early-morning and late-afternoon departures provide good connection options; always verify exact schedules on airline sites and set alerts for last-minute schedule changes. CTA: Check real-time schedules and book the best flight time for your May trip.

To find cheap RDU to RSW flights in May, compare fares across search engines and airline sites, use flexible date views, and set price alerts for Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) departures. Midweek flights (Tuesday–Thursday) often cost less than weekend departures, and being open to one-stop itineraries through Charlotte or Atlanta can save money. Consider traveling outside peak Memorial Day dates and combine flight+hotel packages for additional discounts. CTA: Sign up for fare alerts now to track cheap May flights from RDU to Fort Myers.