Splitting flights to save money is a clever travel hack that can help you cut the cost of air travel without sacrificing convenience. When booking flights, most travellers automatically search for round trip tickets. However, booking two separate one way flights, sometimes with different airlines, can often work out far cheaper than a standard return fare. This approach, often called splitting your tickets, allows you to choose the most affordable option for each leg of your journey. In many cases, low cost carriers and limited time sales apply only to certain routes or dates, making this strategy a smart way to secure the best deals.
How Splitting Flights to Save Money Works
Instead of booking a traditional return ticket, you search for outbound and inbound journeys separately. This gives you full control over airline choice, departure times and pricing. One airline may offer a cheap outbound fare, while another may have a better deal for your return.
This method also works well when flying into one city and departing from another. It provides flexibility and can open up more travel opportunities. You are not restricted to returning from the same airport.
Important Things to Consider
While splitting flights to save money can reduce costs, it is important to check the details carefully. Always factor in baggage fees, as different airlines have different policies. A cheaper ticket may charge extra for cabin bags or checked luggage.
If you are not booking a connecting journey under one airline, allow plenty of time between flights. Separate tickets mean the airlines are not responsible if you miss a connection. Travel insurance can provide additional peace of mind.
Best Websites for Comparing One Way Fares
To make the most of splitting flights to save money, compare one way fares using trusted flight comparison platforms such as Skyscanner, Google Flights, Kiwi.com, Momondo and Hopper.
Budget airlines are also worth checking directly, including Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air, Jet2 and Vueling. These carriers often provide very competitive one way fares.
Set up price alerts where possible and stay flexible with your travel dates. Even shifting your departure by one day can make a noticeable difference in price.
Bonus Tip: Search in Incognito Mode
Flight prices may appear to rise after repeated searches. This can happen because cookies track browsing activity. To reduce this risk, search in incognito or private browsing mode. It gives you a fresh session each time and may help you see more consistent pricing.
