Lilian W.
Yelp
Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) is a smaller, mid-size airport located north of Los Angeles, and it offers a much less congested alternative to LAX. One of the best things about BUR is how easy it is to get in and out. Compared to LAX, it's much more manageable, and I'd recommend opting for a drive-through drop-off or pick-up instead of parking, since the parking structures, like at most airports, are quite costly.
Since it's a smaller airport, flights tend to be a bit more expensive than from larger airports, but the process is generally more efficient. Getting through TSA was smooth--there were short lines, and the staff was fairly friendly, making it a breeze.
However, my experience took a bit of a downturn when I came on a day with morning fog. Even though the fog dissipated quickly, all flights were delayed, and the airport became packed. It got so crowded that finding a seat at any gate was difficult. My flight was delayed twice, then canceled, rebooked, and delayed again. So, while the airport is typically efficient, weather conditions can still cause significant delays.
As for food, it's on the pricier side. Expect to pay $20-$25 for a pre-packaged sandwich or wrap, which I found a bit steep for what you get. I didn't see price tags on the bottled waters, but based on the food prices, they were likely expensive too. Luckily, I found a hidden water fountain that I could fill up for free.
Overall, Burbank Airport is a convenient option if you're looking to avoid the hassle of LAX, but be prepared for high prices on food and drinks and occasional delays due to weather.