One-Way vs Round-Trip Flights: 8 Ways to Save Money
Finding cheap flights can be a game-changer for travelers. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a long international trip, knowing when to book a one-way vs. round-trip flights can make a big difference in your travel budget.
At Wallet Flights, we scan hundreds of airline websites to bring you the best deals available. Whether you’re flying solo for business or planning a vacation, our platform ensures you get the most affordable flights possible. Plus, once you’ve booked your flight, you can explore your destination with exciting activities through our trusted travel partner, Get Your Guide.
Let’s dive into the key differences between one-way and round-trip flights and explore eight proven ways to save money on your airfare.
Understanding One-Way vs Round-Trip Flights
What is a One-Way Flight?
A one-way flight is a ticket that takes you from your departure city to your destination without a return ticket. These are ideal for travelers who have uncertain return dates or are flying to multiple destinations.
What is a Round-Trip Flight?
A round-trip flight includes both the outbound and return tickets in one booking. Airlines often offer discounts on round-trip flights, making them a preferred choice for leisure travelers.
Pros and Cons of Each Option
| Flight Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| One-Way | More flexibility, better for multi-city trips | Sometimes more expensive than round-trip |
| Round-Trip | Often cheaper, convenient for fixed schedules | Less flexibility, fees for date changes |
8 Ways to Save Money on One-Way and Round-Trip Flights
1. Compare Prices on Multiple Platforms
Airline prices vary across different platforms. By using Wallet Flights, you can compare deals from hundreds of sources to ensure you get the lowest fare.
2. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates
Flying mid-week (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) often results in lower fares compared to weekend travel. Off-peak seasons, such as late spring and early fall, also offer better deals.
3. Consider Budget Airlines for One-Way Trips
Low-cost carriers like Ryanair, Southwest, and JetBlue often have affordable one-way tickets. However, always check for hidden fees like baggage charges.
4. Mix and Match Airlines for Better Prices
Booking separate one-way tickets on different airlines can sometimes be cheaper than a round-trip flight with the same airline. However, be mindful of layovers and baggage policies.
5. Take Advantage of Airline Sales and Discounts
Many airlines offer seasonal promotions. Signing up for fare alerts through Wallet Flights can help you catch deals before they sell out.
6. Utilize Travel Rewards and Credit Card Points
Using travel credit cards that offer airline miles can lead to free or heavily discounted flights. Popular options include Chase Sapphire Preferred and American Express Platinum.
7. Book in Advance but Not Too Early
The sweet spot for booking domestic flights is 1-3 months in advance, while international flights are best booked 3-6 months before departure.
8. Use Alternative Airports for Cheaper Fares
Flying into nearby secondary airports can save you money. For example, choosing Oakland instead of San Francisco or Gatwick instead of Heathrow can significantly lower your fare.
Should You Choose a One-Way or Round-Trip Flight?
- Choose one-way flights if you want flexibility, are planning a multi-city trip, or are using budget airlines.
- Choose round-trip flights if you want the best deal on a direct return journey and don’t plan on making changes to your itinerary.
Book Your Flight with Wallet Flights & Explore with Get Your Guide
At Wallet Flights, we make flight booking easy by scanning multiple sites for the best prices. After booking, you can enhance your travel experience by booking exciting tours and activities through Get Your Guide.
Conclusion
Finding the best flight deals requires research and flexibility. By using tools like Wallet Flights, considering one-way options, and leveraging travel rewards, you can save significantly on airfare.
FAQs
-
When is it cheaper to book a one-way flight?
One-way flights are often cheaper when flying on budget airlines or booking multi-destination trips. -
Do airlines charge more for one-way tickets?
Some airlines do, but budget carriers and international routes may offer competitive one-way pricing. -
What is the best day to book flights?
Tuesdays and Wednesdays typically have the lowest fares. -
Can I mix and match airlines for round trips?
Yes! Booking separate airlines can sometimes be cheaper than booking a round-trip ticket with one airline. -
How does Wallet Flights help me find cheap flights?
Wallet Flights scans multiple travel sites to compare prices and show you the best deals available.
