journey one way or return

Simple Flying

Is it cheaper to buy one way flights or return tickets.

The short answer still remains: it depends.

Unlike standard retail store therapy, booking a flight is rarely easy - especially for first-timers or infrequent flyers, with airline pricing being significantly more complicated. And while there are die-hard passengers on either side of the aisle, one-way ticket fanatics, and the always-prepared round-trippers, there never seems to be a consensus on which ticket type is optimal.

Even by searching through multiple third-party comparison websites, the answer to such a question is never genuinely answered and tends to get more confusing. Then, when considering how airfare pricing algorithms have plenty of constantly changing variables, formulas, frequent flyer redemptions, and much more, the water seems rather muddy. But fret not, as not all hope is lost, and there are still things to learn that could help passengers save money where needed.

When are one-way tickets cheaper?

Although it's not always the case, one-way tickets are more often than not favorable when using frequent flyer or credit card point redemptions. Since point redemptions or bookings are strategically quoted within a fixed range of prices, passengers often grab the opportunity to book two one-way tickets instead of a single round-trip since the number of points required would not necessarily change.

While this advantage does not make any of the two one-way tickets any cheaper, passengers tend to save on additional fees that would incur. One-way tickets provide much more flexibility - such as not being at the mercy of single scheduled flight days and timings and factoring in the possible accommodation, transport, and insurance costs typically incurred if return-ticket trippers wish to adjust their schedule.

One-way tickets are also considered the cheaper alternative for passengers who prefer to travel with multiple airlines along the same trip, albeit mainly for domestic flights. To further entice this type of passenger, airlines like the low-cost carriers tend to offer special deals or discounts specifically for one-way tickets on various selected routes , making the ticket type significantly cheaper than buying a return-trip ticket for the same period and same route.

The primary hassles in these cases would be for passengers to keep track of two or more separate reservations and airline schedules and hope that there are little to no flight delays during the entire journey, as missing the second leg onwards does spell disaster for the remainder as there is a risk of being offloaded by the other airlines for the later flights if passengers fail to show up on time.

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What about round-trip tickets?

Considering how purchasing one-way tickets seems like the better deal, are there instances when return-trip tickets get the upper - or, in this case, cheaper hand? Like cheaper one-way flight tickets on many routes, airlines also offer cheaper round-trip flight tickets depending on the route and carrier. This is primarily done to encourage passengers to fly the outbound and inbound sectors with the same airline.

Sometimes, passengers will notice that the one-way ticket is almost the same price as the round-trip tickets. Most times, these selected routes are international flights instead of domestic ones. They are slightly restrictive concerning the dates and timings allowed, but overall, they are less stringent than one-way tickets, especially regarding limited cabin class choices.

Round-trip tickets are also typically cheaper when bought through airline and travel consolidators since these businesses purchase tickets in bulk from the airlines and get to resell them to passengers or third-party travel agencies at a heavily discounted rate. In fact, the discounts are sometimes considered heavier than the discounts offered by the airlines themselves, saving passengers quite a sum of money.

Another option where round-trip tickets are considered the less expensive alternative is when passengers book an open-jaw flight - whereby the airlines allow passengers to book a flight to one destination and a flight back from another destination in a different direction but on the same ticket/reservation. So, instead of pricing these two flights as two one-way trips, the airline mainly prices them quite similarly to a round-trip.

What is the final verdict?

After all that back and forth, the conclusion on the cheaper ticket type still rests as it depends on the passengers' travel situation. If the passenger is booking a trip without using any mileage redemption and considering a non-domestic flight, round-trip tickets are often the cheaper alternative. But suppose the passenger plans to fly domestically using mileage redemptions or has significantly flexible timings and itineraries. In that case, one-way tickets may be the way to go.

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One-Way vs. Round-Trip Flights: When Is It Worth Booking Separately?

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Table of Contents

What is a round-trip flight?

What is a one-way flight, when booking cash tickets, when redeeming points and miles, consider booking open-jaw flights.

Are round-trip flights cheaper? The short answer is that it depends . Where you’re traveling to and if you’re paying with cash or miles are the biggest factors in the equation.

For instance, if you’re traveling between the U.S. and Europe and paying in cash, it's cheaper to book a round-trip flight. But if you’re paying for that same flight with miles, the price of two one-way tickets will most often be the same as a round-trip flight (though the taxes paid may vary).

There are other considerations besides just price when comparing round-trip versus one-way flights. Travelers might be surprised to find that booking a round-trip award flight could lead to issues if you have a change in plans mid-trip.

Here's a look at options to weigh when booking round-trip versus one-way flights and answers to some frequently asked questions.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

When you book a round-trip flight, it means you travel from Destination A to Destination B and you return back to Destination A from Destination B. Both flights are booked as one ticket.

So when you’re purchasing the ticket, you select your origin, destination, departure and return date. You make one payment, whether it's with cash or miles.

» Learn more: How to book a flight

A one-way flight, in contrast, is a ticket booked with no return. So you’re only booking a flight from Destination A to Destination B. You can purchase a second, separate ticket from Destination B back to Destination A (should you so choose). One-way flights can be booked with cash or miles.

These types of flights are a good option for those who don’t know their return date, are only traveling in one direction or booking an open-jaw itinerary .

» Learn more: The best days to book a flight and when to fly

When booking flights paid in cash, our recommendation is pretty simple: Book the option that's cheapest for your trip. If a round-trip flight is cheaper than two one-way flights, there's no reason to book two one-way flights.

If two one-way flights are the same price as a round-trip, it might make sense to book the one-way flight (as long as you don’t mind keeping track of the two separate reservations). Even though many airlines have eliminated change fees , it's much easier to change — or even cancel — a flight when there’s only one flight on the reservation to make a change to.

If you’re flying domestically in the U.S., the cost of two one-way flights will usually be the same as a round trip; however, when flying internationally, it can be much more expensive to book two one-way tickets.

Sample flight within the U.S.

In this example flight search on American Airlines , booking two one-way tickets from Newark to Miami will cost $154 for the outgoing flight and $124 for the return, for a total of $278.

Outgoing flight

Return flight

If you were to book these two flights as a round-trip ticket, the price would be exactly the same at $278.

Sample international flight

It's a different ball game with international flights.

Take a look at this flight search from Washington-Dulles to Frankfurt, Germany, on United Airlines . If you were to book the flights as two one-way tickets, it would cost you $3,110.

However, if you book these same flights as part of a round-trip ticket, you’d have to pay $1,783, representing a significant savings over booking two one-way flights.

» Learn more: Should I be loyal to a single airline?

If you're planning on using points and miles to book award flights, you have a different set of factors to consider. In the case of award travel, it can make sense to book two one-way flights instead of a round-trip award.

Two one-way awards offer more flexibility

Most U.S. airlines have dropped change fees on both award and paid flights. So, if the price is the same, consider booking two one-way awards instead of a round-trip award to gain extra flexibility. Keep in mind that if you book a round trip, depending on the airline, you may have difficulty getting your miles redeposited if you need to change your award ticket after taking the first leg of the flight.

For example, if you cancel a United award flight midtrip, you'll retain the miles as a future flight credit. While the miles won't be refunded to your account, you'll have the chance to use them in the future.

Watch for higher taxes and fees when booking two one-way awards

When considering whether to book round-trip versus one-way awards, it's important to price out both options — particularly when flying overseas. Some airlines charge higher taxes and fees for awards that originate in certain regions of the world.

Delta SkyMiles is infamous for charging higher fees for award flights that originate in Europe. Also, particularly for international flights, Delta will often price round-trip award flights at less than the cost of two one-way awards.

For example, take a round-trip award from New York to Paris. Delta charges 50,000 SkyMiles plus $85 in taxes and fees for a round-trip main cabin award.

However, if you book the same flights as two one-way awards, you'll pay a total of 74,000 SkyMiles plus roughly $220 in taxes and fees. The outbound award costs 37,000 miles plus $6 in taxes and fees. Then, you'll need to pay another 37,000 SkyMiles plus around $220 to fly home.

In a situation like this, it makes sense to book a round-trip award. You'll save on miles and out-of-pocket costs.

Consider change fees on award flights

Most U.S. airlines have eliminated change fees on both paid flights and award tickets. However, that's not the case with all mileage programs. If you're booking through a mileage program that charges change fees, you may want to book a round-trip award to reduce the fees you could pay if you need to cancel the trip.

» Learn more: Booking flights with points or miles expands refund option

Say you're considering flying to Europe to take a cruise from Budapest to Munich. One might assume that your only options are to:

Book a round-trip flight into one of the cities plus book a one-way intra-Europe flight between them.

Book two one-way flights — one-way into Budapest and one-way back from Munich.

However, there's a third option: booking an "open-jaw" flight . Many airlines will let you book a flight into Budapest and a flight back from Munich on the same ticket. Rather than pricing these flights as two one-way flights, the airline generally prices the flights similar to a round-trip.

» Learn more: The guide to open-jaw flights with Chase points

If you're using airline miles to book these flights, check to see if it's cheaper to book two one-way awards or an open-jaw award. As outlined in the Delta example above, award flights originating in Europe can have much higher taxes and fees. So it might make sense to book the two award segments together as a multicity award.

In the past, airlines charged more for booking two one-way flights rather than a round-trip on the same route. However, this isn't the case anymore on most domestic flights and even some international flights — mostly thanks to competition from low-cost carriers.

In short, airlines charge more for one-way flights on the routes when they can get away with doing so. If only one airline is operating a particular route, it might increase the price of one-way flights to generate more revenue from business travelers and others that are willing to pay more for the nonstop flight.

However, when there's competition from other airlines, the cost of one-way flights often drops to compete with the other airlines serving that route.

Booking a round-trip flight can be cheaper than booking one-way tickets on the same flights. Before booking two one-way flights, check the round-trip price to see if it's cheaper. Even if you're flying out of a different city than you're flying into, booking a so-called "open-jaw" flight could be much cheaper than booking two one-way flights.

Most U.S. airline loyalty programs will charge the same number of miles whether you book round-trip or two one-way flights. Because of this, it can make sense to book two one-way flights instead of a round-trip award to get flexibility in case you need to change or cancel plans.

However, this isn't always the case. Some loyalty programs — such as Delta — charge fewer miles for booking a round-trip award instead of two one-way flights. We recommend pricing out award flights both ways just to be sure.

airline loyalty programs

will charge the same number of miles whether you book round-trip or two one-way flights. Because of this, it can make sense to book two one-way flights instead of a round-trip award to get flexibility in case you need to change or cancel plans.

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How To Decide If 2 One-Ways Are Better Than A Round-Trip Flight

Senior Reporter, HuffPost Life

When you book air travel, the airline offers many ways to filter your search results ― price limits, preferred times of day, nonstop flights versus flights with layovers, and of course, round-trip versus one-way.

As the names suggest, a round-trip journey includes both a flight from your starting point to your destination and a flight back to your origin, whereas a one-way only covers one of those segments. While the former is generally the simplest way to book a trip, some people prefer to buy two separate one-way tickets when they travel.

But are there good reasons to choose one over the other? We asked a few travel experts to share their advice on whether it’s better to book two one-ways or a round-trip reservation for your next air travel excursion.

International travel tends to incentivize round-trip bookings.

“When you’re booking international flights, it almost always pays off to book as a round-trip, since airlines typically price one-ways at much more than half the cost of the round-trip fare,” said Zach Griff, senior reporter at The Points Guy .

Indeed, a cursory search on Google Flights while writing this piece found a round-trip flight option from New York to Paris for $522. But if you were to purchase the same two flights separately ― New York to Paris, then Paris back to New York ― the combined cost would be $1,670, more than three times the cost of the round-trip booking. The price discrepancy can get even more egregious when premium cabin fares are involved.

“In general, round-trip tickets tend to be cheaper than two one-way tickets, particularly if you intend on flying with a single carrier or alliance,” said Willis Orlando, senior product operations specialist at Scott’s Cheap Flights .

So if you’re all about airline loyalty, you’ll likely find better pricing options booking a round-trip journey for your international travels.

But domestic flights have better one-way pricing.

While airline pricing tends to incentivize round-trip bookings for international flights, there isn’t as much of a disparity with domestic air travel.

“When traveling within the U.S., airlines typically price one-way flights at exactly half the cost of a round-trip,” reporter Chris Dong wrote for The Points Guy in September. “There certainly are exceptions, especially for those that fly out of smaller, regional airports.”

Thus, if you’re flying domestically out of a major hub, you have better odds of finding good deals on separate one-way tickets.

Booking separate legs allows you to combine airlines.

Once you’ve determined you won’t lose money booking separate legs for your air travel, consider why you want to do it this way.

“Booking a round-trip itinerary as two one-way segments can make sense in some cases,” Griff said. “For one, it gives you the flexibility to choose between more than one airline in your searches. Sometimes, you can save money by combining flights on different airlines.”

Perhaps you have rewards points with two different airlines that service your destination and want to cash them in during one trip. Booking separately allows you to do that. You might even find a good deal for the outbound part of your journey with one airline and for the return flight with a different carrier.

“That said, you’ll need to pay attention to different fare rules when combining two airlines on one trip,” Griff noted. “For instance, if your outbound flight is delayed or canceled, you’d only be entitled to a refund for that portion of the itinerary, if you booked as one-ways.”

One-ways also offer more flexibility with return dates.

Another factor you may want to consider when booking round-trip or one-way is how sure you are of your dates.

Good one-way rates “can be useful if you’re not quite sure when you’ll be returning from your trip, which is particularly relevant in the age of remote work and extended AirBnB stays,” Orlando said.

So if you aren’t exactly sure when you’ll be ending your stay, you can make the process easier by simply booking a one-way ticket there. Then you don’t have to book your return until you’re ready, and you won’t have to spend time changing it to a later date over and over again.

Orlando said he’s even had some luck booking one-ways internationally with certain carriers, like TAP Air Portugal.

“I frequently travel to Europe for weeks, if not months, at a time, and try to make sure I end my trip in a city served by TAP, because I know I’ll be able to find myself a cheap one-way ticket home,” he noted.

Booking separate legs might help with a complicated itinerary.

Sometimes your travels might take you to multiple places and via different transit methods. For example, you might fly from Miami to New York and then take the train down to Washington, D.C. In this case, you’d want to fly back home from a different city than the one you flew into.

“In many cases, it will be possible to book an open-jaw ticket, coupling the two itineraries into a single ‘round-trip’ ticket, but occasionally that’s not possible,” Orlando said. “In that case, it can be worthwhile to look into one-way prices to see if they offer a competitive price, or favorable routing.”

When you have a more complex itinerary, it might feel simpler to break it up into one-way flights. Just make sure to compare the prices, and be prepared to manage the different airline bookings in your inbox.

As with most aspects of travel, there’s no one magic way to do things when you’re deciding whether to book two one-ways or a round-trip journey. But with research and experience, you can get better at figuring out what works best for your budget, itinerary and overall comfort level.

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What Is One Way And Round Trip

Published: December 1, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Janine Weaver

Introduction

In the world of air travel, one of the most common decisions that travelers face is whether to book a one-way ticket or opt for a round trip. This seemingly simple choice can have a significant impact on the overall travel experience, from the cost of the ticket to the flexibility of the itinerary. Understanding the difference between one-way and round trip flights is crucial in making an informed decision that suits your travel needs.

Whether you’re planning a vacation, a business trip, or a combination of both, it’s essential to consider the various factors that come into play when choosing between one-way and round trip flights. By weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each option, you can make a decision that aligns with your budget, travel plans, and overall convenience.

In this article, we will explore the definition of one-way and round trip flights and discuss the differences between them. Additionally, we will highlight the advantages of each and offer insights into the factors to consider when making a decision. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of the pros and cons of one-way and round trip flights, helping you make an informed choice for your next journey.

Definition of One Way and Round Trip

Before delving into the differences between one-way and round trip flights, let’s establish a clear definition for each term.

A one-way flight, as the name suggests, refers to a ticket that allows you to travel from one destination to another without the need for a return journey. It is commonly used when your travel plans involve visiting multiple destinations or when you have no definite date for your return trip. With a one-way ticket, you have the flexibility to decide your return journey at a later time.

On the other hand, a round trip flight involves booking a ticket for a journey from one destination to another and return to the original point of departure. It is typically used when your travel plans involve a fixed return date or when you want to have a set itinerary for your trip. Round trip tickets provide the convenience of having your return journey already planned and booked.

Both one-way and round trip flights can be booked for domestic or international travel, depending on your destination. They are offered by airlines and travel agencies worldwide, giving travelers the flexibility to choose the option that best suits their needs.

Now that we have a clear understanding of what constitutes a one-way and round trip flight, let’s explore the differences between the two options in the next section.

Differences between One Way and Round Trip

While both one-way and round trip flights serve the purpose of transporting you from one destination to another, there are several key differences between the two options. These include factors such as cost, flexibility, and convenience.

1. Cost: One of the most significant differences between one-way and round trip flights is the cost. Generally, one-way tickets tend to be more expensive than half of a round trip ticket. This is because airlines often offer discounted fares for round trip bookings in an effort to encourage travelers to choose their airline for the entire journey. However, it’s essential to note that prices can vary depending on the airline, destination, and time of booking, so it’s always wise to compare prices before making a decision.

2. Flexibility: When it comes to flexibility, one-way tickets offer more freedom than round trip tickets. With a one-way ticket, you have the freedom to choose when and where you want to return, allowing you to extend your stay or change your plans without any additional complications. On the other hand, round trip tickets have a fixed return date, providing less flexibility but ensuring that you have a confirmed seat on your desired return flight.

3. Convenience: Round trip flights provide a higher level of convenience in terms of planning and booking. With a round trip ticket, you can have your entire itinerary organized, including both the outbound and return flights. This can be particularly beneficial if you have specific travel dates or if you prefer to have your travel plans finalized in advance. Conversely, booking separate one-way flights requires more time and effort for planning and coordination.

4. Change and Cancellation Policies: Another difference between one-way and round trip flights lies in their change and cancellation policies. One-way tickets are typically more flexible when it comes to making changes or canceling your reservation. Airlines usually allow changes or cancellations for a fee, which can vary depending on the airline and fare class. On the other hand, round trip tickets often have stricter change and cancellation policies, with additional fees or penalties for modifications to the itinerary.

These are some of the key differences between one-way and round trip flights. It’s important to consider these factors and evaluate your travel needs and preferences when making a decision between the two options. Now, let’s explore the advantages of each in the next section.

Advantages of One Way Tickets

Booking a one-way ticket for your upcoming journey offers several advantages that may be beneficial depending on your travel plans and preferences.

1. Flexibility: One of the primary advantages of a one-way ticket is the flexibility it provides. With a one-way ticket, you have the freedom to decide when and where you want to return, allowing you to extend your stay or make changes to your itinerary without the constraints of a fixed return date.

2. Open-ended Travel Plans: If you have an adventurous spirit and love the idea of spontaneous travel, a one-way ticket allows you to embrace that sense of freedom. You can explore different destinations and decide on your next destination on the go, without being tied to a pre-determined return date or location.

3. Multi-City Trips: If your travel plans involve visiting multiple destinations and you will not be returning to your original departure point, booking separate one-way tickets for each leg of your journey can be more convenient. This way, you can optimize your itinerary and have more control over your travel arrangements.

4. Cost Savings: In some cases, booking one-way tickets can be more cost-effective, especially if you are purchasing tickets well in advance or if you are taking advantage of special deals or promotions. By comparing the prices of one-way tickets versus round trip tickets, you may find that the former offers better value for the specific trip you are planning.

5. Relocation or Permanent Moves: If you are planning to relocate or make a permanent move to a new destination, a one-way ticket is the obvious choice. It allows you to book your flight to your new home without the need for a return journey, as you will be settling down in the new location.

While there are advantages to booking one-way tickets, there are also certain factors to consider before making a decision. Factors such as cost, flight availability, and change/cancellation policies should be evaluated to ensure it aligns with your travel needs. In the next section, let’s explore the advantages of round trip tickets.

Advantages of Round Trip Tickets

When planning your travel, round trip tickets offer several advantages that may make them the preferred choice for many travelers.

1. Cost Savings: One of the most significant advantages of booking round trip tickets is the potential cost savings. Airlines often offer discounted fares for round trip bookings, making them more economical compared to purchasing two separate one-way tickets. This can be a significant factor, especially if you have a fixed travel itinerary and already know your return date.

2. Convenience: Round trip tickets provide a higher level of convenience in terms of planning and booking. With a round trip ticket, you can have the peace of mind of having your entire itinerary organized, including both the outbound and return flights. This can be particularly beneficial if you have specific travel dates or want to ensure that you have a confirmed seat on your desired return flight.

3. Security and Stability: Booking a round trip ticket offers a level of security and stability, especially if you have time-sensitive commitments or prefer having your travel plans finalized in advance. With a round trip ticket, you can rest assured that you have a return flight booked, avoiding the stress of finding a last-minute one-way ticket back home.

4. Beneficial for Business Travel: Round trip tickets are often the preferred choice for business travelers who have fixed appointments or meetings and need to plan their travel in advance. The convenience of a round trip ticket ensures that their entire trip, including the return journey, is organized and confirmed.

5. Easier Travel Documentation: Some countries require proof of onward travel when entering, which can be easily provided with a round trip ticket. Having a confirmed return date and flight can make the immigration process smoother and avoid any unnecessary complications.

While round trip tickets offer numerous advantages, it’s essential to consider factors such as flexibility, cost, and the possibility of unforeseen changes to your travel plans. Assessing your specific travel needs and comparing the benefits of round trip tickets against other options will help you make an informed decision.

Factors to Consider when Choosing between One Way and Round Trip

When deciding between booking a one-way or round trip ticket, it’s crucial to take into account several factors that can impact your travel experience. Consider the following aspects before making your decision:

1. Travel Plans: Assess the nature of your travel plans. Do you have a fixed return date or do you prefer the flexibility to decide your return journey later? If you have a specific itinerary and fixed dates, a round trip ticket may be the better option. However, if you have an open-ended trip or plan to visit multiple destinations without returning to the original departure point, a one-way ticket would offer more flexibility.

2. Budget: Consider your budget and compare the costs of one-way tickets versus round trip tickets. In some cases, round trip tickets can be more cost-effective, especially if airlines offer discounted fares or promotions for two-way bookings. However, if you find that booking separate one-way tickets fits within your budget or provides better value for your specific travel plans, it may be the preferable option.

3. Flexibility: Think about how important flexibility is to you. If you want the freedom to extend your trip, change your plans, or have no definite return date, a one-way ticket is likely the better choice. However, if you have fixed commitments or prefer having your entire travel itinerary planned in advance, a round trip ticket provides the convenience of a set return date.

4. Change and Cancellation Policies: Consider the change and cancellation policies of the airline you plan to book with. One-way tickets often offer more flexibility for changes or cancellations, which can be beneficial if your travel plans are subject to change. Meanwhile, round trip tickets may have stricter policies and additional fees for making modifications to your booking.

5. Destination Requirements: Research any specific requirements of your destination. Some countries may require proof of onward travel, which can be easily provided with a round trip ticket. Additionally, visa applications may require you to provide information about your arrival and departure dates, which can be easier to provide when you have a confirmed return flight.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your travel goals, preferences, and budget. Remember that there is no one-size-fits-all answer, and the choice between one-way and round trip tickets depends on your individual circumstances.

Choosing between a one-way ticket and a round trip ticket is an important decision that can significantly impact your travel experience. By understanding the differences, advantages, and factors to consider, you can make an informed choice that suits your travel needs and preferences.

One-way tickets offer flexibility and freedom, allowing you to decide your return journey at a later time. They are ideal for travelers with open-ended itineraries, those visiting multiple destinations, or individuals who prefer the freedom to extend their stay. However, one-way tickets may be more expensive and require extra planning and coordination.

On the other hand, round trip tickets provide convenience and cost savings, making them an excellent choice for travelers with fixed travel dates or those seeking a structured itinerary. Round trip tickets offer peace of mind, ensuring that your return journey is already organized and booked. However, they lack the flexibility of one-way tickets and may have stricter change and cancellation policies.

When making your decision, consider factors such as your travel plans, budget, flexibility needs, and any destination requirements. By evaluating these elements, you can choose the option that best meets your individual circumstances.

Remember that there is no one-size-fits-all answer, and the choice between one-way and round trip tickets depends on your specific travel preferences. Whether you choose the flexibility of a one-way ticket or the convenience of a round trip ticket, prioritize what aligns with your travel goals and enjoy the journey ahead.

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The Difference Between Return Ticket, Onward Ticket And One-way Ticket

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A ticket is a piece of paper or online document that permits the holder to travel by public transport. Trains, buses, trams, taxis and airlines are some of the public transport systems that issue tickets to their passengers. There are different types of tickets. A ticket can be a return ticket (otherwise known as a round trip ticket), an onward ticket, or a one-way ticket.

Return Ticket (Round-trip Ticket)

A return ticket or round-trip ticket is a type of ticket that allows the holder to travel to a place and back again to the same place the trip originated. If you begin a trip from Accra, Ghana to Dubai, UAE, and then return on the same ticket to Accra, Ghana, it means you have made a round-trip. You travelled on a return ticket.

In short, a return ticket brings you back to where your trip began.

Onward Ticket

An onward ticket is a type of ticket that permits the holder to travel from a destination or country about to be entered to another destination other than where the traveller is arriving from. An onward ticket is a proof that you have made arrangement to leave to another country or place other than where you are arriving from. If you return to where you arrived from, it’s a return ticket instead.

An example of an onward ticket is the type that a passenger from Accra to Dubai uses to travel to Bahrain.

One-way ticket

As the name implies, a one-way ticket permits the holder to travel from one point to the other without returning. An example is a trip from Accra to Dubai without returning to Accra. Another ticket is required when a person who travelled on a one-way ticket wants to return.

Ticket FAQs

What does it mean by return ticket.

Still have some travel questions? Ask in our Travel WhatsApp Group .

Does return ticket mean round-trip?

Yes, a return ticket is required for a round-trip. A round-trip is a trip that brings you back to where you started. A round-trip ticket or return ticket is needed for a round-trip.

What is the difference between a return ticket and a one-way ticket?

The difference between a return ticket and a one-way ticket is that a return ticket brings the holder back to where the trip originated whereas one-way ticket leaves the holder at the destination.

What is an onward return ticket?

An onward ticket is a type of ticket that allows the holder to travel from the country about to be entered to another destination other than where the trip originated.

How does a return ticket work?

A return ticket is required for a return trip. Whether you are sure of your return dates or not, you are to provide specific dates of your departure and return for a return ticket to be booked. Check the class of booking and its terms and conditions to be sure that changes can be made to the ticket just in case you are not too sure of your return date. Some airlines allow refunds of the unused part of return tickets.

Is a return ticket there and back?

Yes, a return ticket takes you there and brings you back.

Is it cheaper to buy a one way ticket?

Interestingly, a one way ticket can be expensive than a return ticket on international flights. One way tickets are usually half of a return ticket on domestic flights.

Is it better to buy one way tickets or round trip?

It depends on a lot of factors including where you are travelling from and your destination. Two one-way tickets would rarely be better than a round-trip ticket. In most cases, a single one-way ticket is expensive than a round trip ticket. As mentioned, a lot of factors come to play. If the idea is to save money on international flights, a round trip is cheaper. One way tickets on domestic flights are mostly the same as a round trip ticket.

Are round trips cheaper than two one way?

Yes, a round trip ticket is cheaper than two one way tickets on international flights. On domestic flights, fares are usually the same.

Which countries require a return ticket?

Any country that requires a traveller to leave after a period of stay requires travellers to hold return tickets. That’s one sure way that a person would leave the country after the permitted period of stay.

What is proof of onward travel?

Proof of onward travel is a piece of evidence in the form of a ticket that allows the holder to travel from a country about to be entered to a destination other than where the trip started. It can be a ticket for a flight, bus, train, tram, taxi or any other system of transport.

Which countries require onward ticket?

Any country that requires a traveller to leave after a period of stay requires travellers to hold an onward ticket. That’s one sure way that a person would leave the country after the permitted period of stay.

Akesse Sanza

Akesse Sanza is a Ghanaian Travel Blogger, Travel and Tourism Consultant, and Anti-human Trafficking And Safe Migration advocate. Akesse loves everything Travel & Tourism and aims to see every single country in the world.

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One-Way vs. Round-Trip Flights: Which Should You Book?

A question that often comes up during Points Consulting calls is whether it’s better to book one-way or round-trip flights. Of course, it differs with each individual situation, but there are some general principles to go by.

In many cases, booking one-way flights offers greater flexibility and customization. This isn’t always the case, though, and you’ll want to think about the cost, routing rules, cancellation fees, and the use of vouchers when making a decision to book a one-way or round-trip booking.

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Generally speaking, book one-ways, book round-trip flights with vouchers, book round-trip flights to lower costs, book round-trips to save on cancellation fees, book round-trips for extra stopovers.

For my personal bookings, and in most cases during consulting calls, I almost always book one-way flights. Sure, it adds another booking reference to keep track of, but I find that it works best for me.

One of the reasons why I book one-way flights is that my travels don’t tend to be simple and linear. For example, for an upcoming trip to Australia this fall, I have the following flights booked:

• Toronto to Brisbane via Vancouver ( Aeroplan )
• Gold Coast to Sydney (Virgin Australia)
• Sydney to Canberra (Virgin Australia)
• Canberra to Hobart via Melbourne ( Avios )
• Hobart to Melbourne (Avios)
• Albury to Sydney (Qantas)
• Sydney to Victoria (Aeroplan)

In total, I have a mix of one-way bookings with two different loyalty programs and the rest with cash booked directly with the airlines. 

I was able to score deals using eUpgrades on both of my long-haul flights, and since I’ll be coming from The Travel Summit in Toronto and returning to my home on Vancouver Island, it made more sense for me to book two one-way flights.

Within Australia, I plan to visit with friends and family in a few different places, so booking a variety of one-way flights will allow me to maximize my time in each destination during a shorter trip. 

If I need to change or cancel any of my points bookings, having them booked as two one-ways will allow me to avoid repricing the entire round-trip, which could result in a massive increase in Aeroplan points under dynamic pricing . This way, I can keep one of the bargains that I found, without having to worry about losing it to repricing.

Even if your travel tends to be less dynamic than a trip like the above, I still would argue that one-ways are the way to go for most bookings.

Sometimes, plans change, and missing any flights on a round-trip itinerary invalidates the rest of the itinerary. Having a trip booked on two separate one-way itineraries allows for maximum flexibility, in that you won’t lose out on the rest of your flight if your plans change and you miss a connection.

If you’re savvy, you might compare the cost of each one-way flight with points and cash prior to booking. You may encounter an excellent price for one direction, only to find that the other way is much more expensive.

In this case, you could book the cheaper price with cash, and then use points to cover the cost of the other direction, which helps to squeeze more value out of your points. Of course, this doesn’t usually work for international bookings, where one-way cash tickets are often nearly as much as a round-trip, which we’ll discuss below.

There are some compelling reasons to book round-trips in place of one-ways, though, so one-way flights won’t always be the most ideal way to go about booking a trip.

One of the main reasons for booking round-trip flights is any time you have a voucher to redeem. This could be in the form of a companion voucher from a credit card , such as the Air Canada Buddy Pass , the WestJet annual companion voucher, or the Air Canada Annual Worldwide Companion Pass . 

You can squeeze more value out of a companion voucher by booking a round-trip fare instead of a one-way. This is simply because you usually stand to save more on two or more flights instead of just one.

The savings can be enough to justify the annual fee on a premium credit card, so it’s best to consider using them for high value cash bookings, such as for last minute travel or travel during peak periods.

Other types of vouchers, such as Priority Rewards earned by travellers with Aeroplan Elite Status , also are more valuable when redeemed for round-trip flights instead of one-ways. 

For example, a Priority Reward redeemed by a Super Elite is good for 50% off of a round-trip business class booking with any Aeroplan partner anywhere in the world.

A round-trip flight from Toronto to Bangkok via Abu Dhabi on Etihad Airways regularly costs 87,500 points each direction, but a Priority Reward knocks down the cost to 87,500 points for a round-trip.

Sure, you could use a Priority Reward for a one-way flight to Asia and still save a handsome amount of points, but since you have to spend money to earn Priority Rewards, you’re best suited to using them on a round-trip booking for the best value.

Another factor to consider when choosing between round-trip and one-way bookings is the cost. 

For domestic and transborder flights, airlines tend to price out fares as the sum of two one-ways.

For example, a one-way flight from Toronto to Vancouver might cost $200 in one direction and $150 in the other. It makes no difference if you book as a round-trip or two one-ways – you’ll wind up paying $350 either way.

The same isn’t usually true for international flights. This is due to the way fares are constructed, and it’s almost always a much better deal to book a round-trip cash fare for international flights versus one-ways.

For example, a one-way flight from Vancouver to Paris costs $875 with Air France, and from Paris to Vancouver, a one-way flight costs $1,956.

Those same flights booked as a round-trip price out at only $983, which results in a massive $1,848 in savings.

One advantage of booking flights with points is that you usually aren’t subject to the same differences in one-way versus round-trip pricing. With fixed-cost programs, the pricing generally doesn’t change at all between round-trips and one-ways – you’ll pay the same whether you book one round-trip or two one-ways.

For programs that use dynamic pricing that is tied to the actual cost of flights, you’ll want to ensure that you look at the cost per direction to make sure it’s not cheaper to book a round-trip than two one-ways. 

Another cost factor to consider is that the taxes and fees are calculated by the originating airport on a booking. 

For example, if you book a round-trip flight to Toronto out of Edmonton, you’ll be charged 5% GST, as that is the current tax rate in Alberta. If you were to book two one-ways, you’d be charged 5% GST for the ticket from Edmonton, and then 13% HST on the flight from Toronto.

While the difference is negligible for award bookings, the costs can add up if you are paying cash for flights. On business class fares, the difference in booking a round-trip instead of two one-ways could result in hundreds of dollars in savings.

As airlines return to normal-ish operations, the regular change or cancellation fees are also being reimplemented. During the pandemic, passengers enjoyed flexibility with low-to-no cost changes or cancellations, which was a great gesture during a difficult period.

If you’re unsure of whether or not you’ll actually go on a trip, you’ll want to make sure that you can recover your costs. For award bookings, you’d only be on the hook for one cancellation fee if you make a round-trip booking, versus having two cancellation fees for two one-ways.

Let’s use Aeroplan as an example, as the program has recently returned to its regular change and cancellation fees . Cancelling a single round-trip booking online would cost $150, while cancelling two one-way bookings online would be double at $300.

Of course, one method to avoid this is to book a flexible fare to begin with, but you’ll incur a greater cost in points by doing so. 

You’ll want to check the cancellation policies for the points program you’re booking with, as some, such as Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan and American Airlines AAdvantage, continue to offer free cancellation on rewards bookings.

Lastly, you’ll want to consider the routing and stopover rules before deciding on a one-way or a round-trip booking. This largely applies to award bookings, but it can also affect cash fares if the fare rules allow for extra stops on a round-trip booking.

Some programs, such as Aeroplan and Alaska Mileage Plan, allow stopovers on one-way bookings. Indeed, this is a great perk with both programs, and one that can be quite beneficial to travellers.

Other programs, such as Cathay Pacific Asia Miles , ANA Mileage Club, or Saver awards on Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer, only allow stopovers on round-trip bookings.

So, if you want to stretch the value of your points with redemptions in these programs, you’ll want to book a round-trip over a two one-way bookings.

In the majority of cases, booking one-ways allows for greater flexibility with complex routings and also allows you to optimize the use of points and cash. In most cases, it’s best to book two one-ways over a round-trip.

There are exceptions to this, though, and in some cases, it’s much better to make a round-trip booking than two one-way bookings. These situations can include using vouchers, booking international flights with cash, considering the various costs, and taking advantage of routing and stopover rules.

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What Is the Difference Between One Way and Round Trip?

Traveling can be a complicated and confusing process, especially when it comes to booking flights. One common question that people often ask is what is the difference between one way and round trip. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between these two types of flights, and we’ll provide some tips to help you make an informed decision when booking your next trip.

Definition of One Way and Round Trip Tickets

A one-way ticket is exactly what it sounds like: a ticket that takes you from your departure location to your destination with no return flight.

On the other hand, a round-trip ticket is a ticket that takes you from your departure location to your destination and back again. In other words, it includes two flights: one for the trip to your destination and another for the return trip.

Advantages and Disadvantages of One Way Tickets

One of the main advantages of a one-way ticket is that it gives you the flexibility to travel on your own schedule. You can book a one-way ticket and stay as long as you like at your destination, or you can even book separate one-way tickets for each leg of your trip , which can be useful if you want to visit multiple destinations.

Another advantage of one-way tickets is that they are often cheaper than round-trip tickets. This is because airlines typically offer discounts for booking round-trip tickets, so one-way tickets can be more expensive as a result.

However, there are also some disadvantages to consider with one-way tickets. For example, if you need to change your plans mid-trip, you may end up paying more for a separate one-way ticket to your new destination, whereas a round-trip ticket would have allowed for changes at a lower cost. Additionally, if you don’t have a set plan for your return trip , a one-way ticket can be a more expensive option in the long run.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Round Trip Tickets

The main advantage of round-trip tickets is that they are often cheaper than two separate one-way tickets. This is because airlines typically offer discounts for booking round-trip tickets, making them a cost-effective option for those who know their travel dates in advance.

Another advantage of round tickets is that they often come with added benefits, such as the ability to change your flight dates or even your destination, at a lower cost than booking separate one-way tickets.

However, there are also some disadvantages to consider with round-trip tickets. For example, if your plans change and you need to stay longer at your destination, you may end up paying extra fees to change your return flight. Additionally, if you’re not sure about your travel dates, a round-trip ticket can be a more expensive option, as you’ll be paying for a return flight that you may not use.

What’s the Difference Between One Way and Round Trip?

When it comes to air travel, the main difference between a one-way ticket and a round-trip ticket is the type of journey it covers. A one-way ticket allows you to fly from your departure location to your destination, without having to book a return flight . On the other hand, a round-trip ticket covers both the outbound and return leg of your journey.

One of the biggest advantages of a one-way ticket is flexibility. You have the freedom to change your plans and stay longer or leave earlier, without having to worry about the cost of an additional ticket. However, one-way tickets can be more expensive than round-trip tickets, as airlines often offer discounts for travelers booking a return journey.

Roundtrip tickets, on the other hand, offer a cost-effective solution for those with a set itinerary. These tickets usually come with discounts, making them a good option for travelers who know the dates of their trip and don’t plan on making any changes. However, the downside of a round-trip ticket is that you may incur fees if you need to change your travel plans.

In summary, the choice between a one-way and a round-trip ticket depends on the length of your vacation and your travel plans. If you’re planning a short trip with a set itinerary, a round-trip ticket may be the best option. However, if you’re planning a longer trip or are open to the possibility of extending your stay, a one-way ticket may be the more flexible option.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between One Way and Round Trip

When deciding between a one-way and a roundtrip ticket, there are several factors to consider, such as:

• Cost: How much are each option and which is the most cost-effective for you?
• Flexibility: Do you need the flexibility to change your plans, or are you set on aspecific travel itinerary ?
• Length of trip: Are you planning a short or long trip, and will you need the option to stay longer at your destination?
• Travel plans: Do you have a set return date, or are you open to the possibility of extending your trip?

It’s important to carefully consider these factors and weigh the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.

Is it always cheaper to book a round-trip ticket?

Not always. While round-trip tickets often come with discounts, it’s always best to compare the prices of both options and see which is the most cost-effective for your specific travel plans.

Can I change my flight dates with a roundtrip ticket?

Yes, you can usually change your flight dates with a roundtrip ticket, but there may be fees associated with these changes.

Can I book separate one-way tickets if I want to visit multiple destinations?

Yes, you can book separate one-way tickets for each leg of your trip if you want to visit multiple destinations.

Is it possible to change my destination with a roundtrip ticket?

Yes, some airlines allow you to change your destination, but this may come with additional fees.

In conclusion, whether to book a one-way or round-trip ticket depends on your specific travel plans and needs. A one-way ticket offers more flexibility, but may be more expensive in the long run. On the other hand, a round-trip ticket is often more cost-effective, but may limit your ability to change your plans. By carefully considering the factors mentioned above, you can make an informed decision and choose the ticket that’s right for you.

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Why Does a One Way Ticket Cost More Than a Round Trip Ticket?

What is a one way ticket.

A one way ticket is a type of ticket that allows the respective passenger to travel to their destination only and it does not consider the returning. In simple words, it considers the one-way travel either it is on an aircraft, a train, a bus, or any other mode of travel without a return trip.

What Is A Round Trip Ticket?

On the other side, a round trip ticket is that type of ticket which allows a person to travel to a place or destination and also consider the return back to the place which the traveler left. Hence this ticket considers the whole journey i.e. going to a place and the returning too (usually over the same route). It is quite profitable for the passengers as compared to one way airline ticket.

Difference Between A One Way Trip And A Round Trip:

Well, it is always difficult to predict the airfares, but some loosely defined rules have made it a little easier to make travel plans. But on comparing round trip vs one way tickets, it can be understood that why are one way flights more expensive ! If you are getting two flights for less than the price of one, then airlines must have relatively solid reasons for pricing flights this way. And some of those reasons are discussed below:

• Business Travelers Pay More:

It is a fact that the business travelers’ airfare is round-trip most of the time as they almost always purchased by a corporate travel department. They generally focused to avail the most convenient flying times each way rather than the lowest cost. Airlines have little incentive to offer lower round-trip prices as long as it is for the non-discount round-trip airfare.

• One-Way Airfare is Inconvenient for Airlines Too:

Airlines have a more convenient for their scheduling system when the travelers fly round-trip or book round trip tickets. In case of one-way flights where the passengers need to purchase another ticket for the return journey, the airlines find it quite difficult to make airplane staffing decisions and set flight schedules ahead of time.

• One-Way Airfare Eliminates The Scheduling Problems:

Passengers with the one-way ticket can easily take advantage of the lower round-trip fares by simply discarding the unused ticket portion. Although, this thing is against airline ticketing rules yet it is quite common among passengers and they almost never punished.

On the part of the airline, they can easily adjust flight schedules without losing money whether the passenger decides to book a one-way return or not. They do so by managing the situation when a passenger purchases a one-way ticket at a higher price than the cost of half of the same round-trip journey.

• One-Way Airfare is More Convenient for Passengers:

In case, the passenger is not sure about his/her returning, then purchasing a one way ticket is more appropriate. Since the airline can’t be sure about using these for the return trip of the passengers, that’s why their one-way tickets are more expensive in order to recoup the potential losses of you as a return passenger. Passengers just end up by paying more for the convenience of deciding at your leisure exactly.

How To Buy Cheap Tickets OR Tips To Buy Cheap Tickets:

To avail perfect airfares in your budget, you just need to follow the few tips regarding booking cheapest air tickets . It will help you to know how to buy cheap tickets . This includes stuff like

• Keep your searches top secret
• Use the best flight search engines
• Identify the cheapest day to fly out
• Befriend budget airlines

All You Need to Know While Buying One-Way Airline Tickets:

There are times when you fly to somewhere and have no exact idea when you will be coming back. In such a case, if you buy one-way airfare, then will be the most stupid thing. After all, there is always an option to purchase a return ticket later.

Do take into account the growing popularity of discount airlines and airfares and the increased competition between legacy carriers. This is the reason why round-trip airfare is frequently cheaper than a one-way ticket. There are a few drawbacks which the passenger must be aware of. Following are some of them:

• Role Of Your Destination:

In case, you are purchasing a ticket to a domestic destination (No Return):

For this, the one-way ticket is almost always cheaper. Passengers can easily get the advantage from US-based discount airlines like Southwest Airlines and JetBlue which offer one-way fares for under $100.

On the other side, for Europe or Asia, it is often cheaper to buy a round-trip ticket, especially if you prefer to fly with the major US carriers.

• Airlines Encourage Round-Trip:

It is a fact that one-way bookings are a headache for the airline too as these disrupt the overall flying schedules. Hence, the airline itself discourages passengers from booking for one way. That’s also one of the reasons that the one-way flights are almost always significantly more expensive. The prices for one-way tickets are always high because these are frequently purchased by business class travelers on multi-leg trips.

• Throwaway Ticketing:

Throwaway Ticketing : It is a type of practice in which passengers used to purchase a round-trip ticket and throw away the unneeded portion to get a one-way trip at a round-trip price. Eventually, it proves much cheaper and is very common among frequent flyers.

Airline ticketing rules do prohibit the act of throwaway ticketing. In case, a passenger fails to use the first portion and show up only for the return flight, then the airline changes huge penalties from the respective passenger. It can also deny boarding.

• Try To Be Flexible:

Being flexible will help the passengers keep the price down in case of purchasing the one-way ticket.

For an instant, a one-way flight leaving at 10 am will be more expensive than the first flight of the day flying at 4 or 5 am. Managing the days can also prove helpful like if you fly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays; you can save more.

Searching of multiple travel sites can be helpful but keep in mind that most travel sites do not post fares for discount carriers, so visit those sites individually.

Steps For Using a Roundtrip Ticket to Go One Way:

It is the most common activity among the passengers to purchase the less expensive round-trip fare and simply do not use the return portion. Doing so can be easy but it contains certain restrictions that can add considerable complications to the process.

HOW TO DO SO?

• STEP 1: Contact the Airline (before arrival)

First of all, contact the airline before the day of the flight and do modify the round-trip ticket for one-way usage. Most of the airlines modify a round-trip fare to allow one-way use but some airlines may charge a penalty or fee for this service.

• STEP 2: Use the ticket for the outbound flight

Your flight accommodation will not change as it is based on the one-way or round-trip status of your ticket. Hence you can check-in at the airport and board the plane under normal flight procedures on the day of flight arrival.

• STEP 3: Contact the Airline (after reaching your destination)

If you get failed to negotiate with the airline in Step 1, then contact the airline later and ask for a change to your return date is a good option. You can ask for a refund on the unused portion of your ticket. You can disregard this step in the case; you are unconcerned with a refund or change to your return-trip ticket.

• STEP 4: Contact the Airline (ready to return)

In case, you negotiate a change to the return portion of your ticket with the airline, then verify the change and check-in at the airport for your updated return flight. But you may need to purchase a new ticket for your return flight if you are not able to negotiate a change.

• ← United Airlines Will Soon Introduce ‘The New Auction System’ For overbooking Flights!
• American Airlines Web Check In Policy: Terms And Conditions →

What is a One-Way Flight?

A one-way flight is booked from the departure airport to the destination airport with no scheduled return.

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There are a number of reasons to purchase a one-way flight ticket, including:

• permanent relocation
• continued travel or uncertain return travel plans
• other modes of return travel such as trains, boats, or busses,
• money-saving strategies like booking two one-way tickets with different airlines.

Is it cheaper to fly one way or round trip?

Generally it’s cheaper to buy a roundtrip , but there are several exceptions. 

As a rule of thumb, a roundtrip domestic ticket typically costs the same as two one-way domestic fares. For international travel, however, it is often much cheaper to purchase roundtrip fares rather than individual one-way flights. 

Additionally, low-cost or budget carriers are typically more likely to price one-way fares at half the cost of a roundtrip than their legacy airline counterparts. This is due to several reasons, including route models (budget carriers usually employ a point-to-point system while legacy airlines operate more complicated hub-and-spoke routes), price discrimination based on types of travelers, and the tendency for budget carriers to use simplified pricing (i.e. a roundtrip fare on a low-cost airline is more likely to be exact sum of each of its legs as opposed to a legacy roundtrip fare, which may be built using a more complicated algorithm).

Some airlines like Southwest and JetBlue are known for their one-way flash sales. During these special events, passengers can purchase tickets for one-way flights at a very low price. These are usually offered for a list of set routes and overall savings can vary by departure and destination airport. Therefore, it might make sense for a vacation traveler to snatch up a $39 one-way fare from New York JFK to San Juan, Puerto Rico during a flash sale and search for a return one-way ticket later.

Can you book a roundtrip flight and only use the one-way ticket?

If a roundtrip fare is a better deal than a single one-way ticket, you can purchase a roundtrip fare and cancel (or simply not board) the return flight. This is also known as a “throwaway ticket” and employs a similar strategy as hidden city ticketing . 

Travelers interested in buying a throwaway ticket should note that while it’s not technically illegal, airlines frown upon this practice and can penalize passengers who frequently miss scheduled connections or return flights by invalidating frequent flyer miles, not granting or honoring airline status, or even going so far as to ban them from future travel with that airline. Also, beware that once you skip a leg, the remaining itinerary will be canceled.

Last updated Jan 10, 2024

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I have a feeling that that date will be in demand and am worried that it will book up quickly. Should I book one way and then wait until the return flights are released to book the return journey separately or just sit tight and get both flight together? Is there any disadvantage booking two one way flights ?

And although flights are released about a year ahead most people wait until 3-6 months before booking their trips, so I wouldn't rush out and book anything now for Christmas 2022.

This post has been removed at the author's request.

These will not be so in demand that you have to rush out the day they are released. You can easily wait until mid or late January.

It's actually a very popular time to book a winter break but I would wait. January isn't going to help much as far as knowing how Covid might affect travel in what will be the next winter flu season with possible new variant so you'll have to check fare rules and change policy with whomever you fly. I wouldn't book until April to June earliest and make sure I have good insurance in place as well as a bare minimum. And of course schedules are likely to change esp booking too far out. Booking one way on routes like these are usually very expensive.

Even if it's a popular date they will not sell out so quickly that you need to buy the more expensive 2 x one way tickets

In my experience buying tickets as soon as they are released can be one of the most expensive times to buy - your desire to buy is greater than the airline's need to sell.

I wouldn't even think of looking at that route at the moment, let alone commiting to dates & tickets when they haven't even released the winter 2022 schedule yet.

What evidence do you have they will even fly on the 9th? It's a Sunday, as the DUB-MCO is route is part week, 3 days, this winter they don't even fly Sundays.

Not only would I never consider 2 singles this far in advance, I wouldn't look at those dates or route till Sept/oct '21. unless there was a giveaway sale, say €350 ish, then I might roll the dice.

We do that "book as soon as available" thing when we are using airmiles, and expense doesn't matter.

For paid seats there will be plenty of availability when the return is loaded into their system.

I know that we don’t know what next Christmas might hold but i need something to look forward too!!!

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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How to Fly Economy One Way and Business Return to Get a Great Deal

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As the cost of flying Business Class is becoming more expensive frequent flyers are looking for ways to reduce their overall flight cost by mixing cabins and flying economy one way and Business Class the other way. How though can you mix cabins on a flight and get the best deal available?

As a general rule, if you fly one way in economy class and the other way in Business Class you can choose the cheapest leg of each flight. You can select the cheapest available economy seat, and the cheapest available Business Class seat, and combine them together for one return flight.

This method also usually gives you a better deal. When we take to the skies, we have to take the benefits when we can. This method gives you the best of both worlds – a Business Class flight to look forward to but at half the price!

What a Mixed Cabin Means

On the whole, a mixed cabin means your inbound and outbound flights are in different cabin classes. Your outbound flight could be in Economy, but your inbound flight could be in Business Class. Many travelers choose a mixed cabin flight to enhance their flight but save on the cost of a full premium flight return fare.

This gives you more flexibility, and the ability to choose different airlines for your inbound and outbound flights, and could mean at least part of your flight is away from Economy class.

How to Get a Mixed Cabin Flight Deal

Let’s look at how this works exactly. Unfortunately, the majority of the flight search engines such as Google Flights, Sky Scanner, etc… will show you return flights for the cabin you choose. This isn’t ideal for a mixed-cabin flight. You can though search through a flight search engine, choose the cheapest deal, and go through to the airline’s website. From here you can often alter the flight, and upgrade one way.

In this example we are going to look for a trip to San Francisco in October with British Airways:

Step #1 – Visit the BA website , and search for your chosen flights BUT make sure you choose Economy as the cabin class (if you choose Premium Economy or Business Class the search will not show Economy prices)

Step #2 – Find and select the cheapest outbound economy flight

Step #3 – Find and select the cheapest inbound Business Class flight

Step #4 – Make note of the quote, and repeat steps 2 and 3 again, but this time search for the cheapest Business Class outbound and Economy class inbound

Using this method:

• If we fly Economy outbound and Business inbound the cheapest price is £1,011.52
• If we fly Business Class outbound and Economy inbound the cheapest price is £1,109.52

You can save £98 by taking the same flights but travelling Business Class flight on your return flight instead of your outbound flight.

Flying Out With One Airline and Back With Another  

You can fly out with one airline and fly the return part of your journey on a different airline. You will need to buy two separate tickets, one for each airline. Often though you will pay more this way. On some flights a single fare can be more expensive than a return fare. It is possible to use this mixed cabin method on separate airlines, but it can be difficult to find a cheaper deal using separate airlines than using the same airlines.

On the other hand, you may need to fly different airlines due to flight times and your plans. To use this method, you can use the flight search engines, such as Google Flights , and simply search for a one-way flight outbound in Economy, find the cheapest price and then search for the return leg in Business Class.

Repeat the exercise but this time swap Economy to the inbound flight and Business Class to the outbound flight. You will now have found the cheapest possible mixed cabin deal offer using one airline for your outbound flight and another airline for your inbound flight!

Is It Cheaper to Upgrade to Business Class at the Airport?  

You may be tempted to book an economy flight and look for a last-minute upgrade deal at the airport. In my experience airlines rarely offer cheaper upgrade options at the airport on the day you fly compared to the Business Class price you have paid when booking. This is often because flight prices tend to increase as you move closer to the flight date rather than decrease.

There can be occasions where either the airline is under-subscribed for Business Class or First Class flights and either choose to upgrade selected passengers for free – or will offer you an upgrade flight price at the time of checking in.

There’s no harm in asking though. Often the airline will have upgrades available on the day but expect to pay more than you would have done at the time of booking your flight. It’s wise to try different airline quotes rather than just sticking to one. Often flight comparison tools show you the lowest economy fare, but when you add this to a Business Class flight it may work out more expensive than other airlines – so it can pay to shop around.

The Costs of Flying a One-way vs Round-trip

It’s often the case that a one-way flight is not the same cost as the outbound price you see on a return flight search. It can be a lot more expensive! In the example above a multi-cabin return, flight can be purchased for £1,011.52. The outbound Economy flight costs £282. Now let’s do the exact same search again, but this time just a single outbound flight in Economy class on the same date:

Yes that’s £1,892 for a one way single flight!!!

Why Though is a Single Flight More Expensive Than a Return Flight?

There are more business travelers flying on single flights than holiday travelers. Business travelers are often not as sensitive to higher flight prices and are often limited to specific flight dates. In other words, the airline can charge a much higher price for single flights because the demand is there.

Reduce the Cost of Your Business Class Upgrade with Avios

If you are a regular reader of The Points Insider, you will know I love to save air miles and points. We all spend a lot each year on many different things, so why not pick up a reward whilst we can? You can’t upgrade a Standard Economy fare to Business Class, but you can upgrade a Premium Economy fare to Business Class (or equally a Standard Economy flight to Premium Economy).

To upgrade a Premium Economy flight to Business Class you will need 44,000 Avios Points. There are plenty of ways to save Avios and earn up to 100,000 Avios a year. If this may be of interest, and you’d like to fly Business Class for free, it’s definitely worth reading my guide on how to earn enough Avios Points for a free flight.

How to Fly Economy One Way and Business Return to Get a Great Deal: Final Thoughts

If the cost of a full return Business Class flight is enough to make your eyes water but you are looking to enhance at least part of your flight, then a mixed cabin deal may be best for you.

Staying with the same airline will often be a cheaper option that flying out with one airline and then returning with another – although depending on your flight schedule and travel plans, this may not be possible depending on whether you can get the flight times you need with one airline.

It’s possible to upgrade your flight at the airport but be prepared to pay more than you would have done if you have just purchased a Business Class seat at the time of booking.

If you really want a good deal you could save up enough Avios Points and upgrade to Business Class one way for around 45,000 Avios Points. You will though need to hold a Premium Economy ticket if flying long-haul as you can only upgrade you cabin by one class with Avios Points, not two.

• Business Class vs Economy • British Airways Business Class vs First Class • British Airways Business Class Perks

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1-day ubud itinerary: discovering bali’s hidden gems with thrilling adventures, 8 unesco heritage websites to go to in europe, final showdown – a method vs. return journeys.

There’s nothing extra thrilling than touring as a result of it brings with it new experiences, cultures and reminiscences. Nonetheless, while you determine to journey, your fundamental concern is whether or not to ebook a one-way or round-trip ticket, which will likely be extra economical. Planning a visit and selecting a journey type could be each thrilling and complicated. Few world vacationers are budget-conscious, making the price of journey a important consideration. Now let’s concentrate on the tips that may make it easier to decide whether or not a one-way aircraft ticket is the most suitable choice for you or return aircraft ticket is the most suitable choice.

A method: Adventurous wildcard

One-way tickets provide loads of choices for the versatile and open-minded traveler. Take into account combining airways, exploring totally different routes and embracing spontaneity. Nonetheless, this freedom comes with the duty of managing two separate bookings and the opportunity of inconsistencies in airfares.

• Versatile itinerary: Do not be afraid to increase your journey, change your plans and embrace spontaneity.
• Value analysis: Take into account mixing and matching airways and in search of cheaper one-way tickets.
• Open Jaw journeys: Exploring a number of areas is as straightforward as flying from one metropolis to a different.

In opposition to

• Burden of planning: It could be needed to keep up two totally different bookings at probably larger costs.
• Change Charges: For 2 one-way tickets, the value could also be larger than for 2 round-trip tickets.
• Uncertainty: The chance that you just won’t be able to discover a return flight on the desired value or desired time.

Return journey: A well-known good friend

There isn’t any doubt that the basic return ticket gives an simple comfort. Make sure you ebook it, insure your return and be assured that your return is secure. Airways typically provide reductions to encourage repeat purchases, making them seem economical. Do not be fooled by this! There’s a potential price related to this facility.

• Suitability: There will likely be one reservation, a set return date and fewer stress.
• Reductions: There’s typically a value discount when shopping for a return ticket.
• Versatile scheduling: Return tickets are typically topic to alter price waivers.
• Restricted itinerary: It’s not possible to be spontaneous if you find yourself sure by a predetermined return date.
• Larger price: For versatile vacationers, this will likely not all the time be the most affordable possibility.
• Restricted choices: You may miss out on a less expensive one-way ticket on one other airline.

Suggestions for saving cash on a one-way journey

One-way tickets do not must be costly. A one-way journey could be each an journey and a cheap expertise with cautious planning and strategic choices.

Versatile dates for cheaper flights

The pliability of journey dates can considerably have an effect on the value of a one-way flight. To seek out probably the most favorable dates in your flight, use the versatile date search choices on airline web sites or reserving platforms. You might be able to save vital quantities of cash by flying on weekdays or throughout off-peak hours.

Combine and Match Airways

For one-way journeys, contemplate combining airways. There could also be a greater deal for sure legs of the journey with totally different airways. Examine the costs provided by totally different carriers to place collectively a cheap itinerary.

Use Funds Airways

Particularly for brief flights, low-cost airways typically provide inexpensive one-way fares. Whereas these carriers could not provide the identical degree of service as a full-service airline, they could be a cost-effective different to a full-service airline. Concentrate on additional baggage charges and insurance policies.

Be open to connecting flights

It’s handy to fly direct, however connecting flights are sometimes extra economical. Connecting flights typically provide decrease costs than direct flights. Beforehand, you need to examine the prices of direct and connecting flights utilizing flight search engines like google and yahoo on-line flight reservation and weigh the financial savings towards the extra journey time.

Funds-friendly spherical journey methods

A return journey does not have to interrupt the financial institution. You may maximize your journey expertise whereas staying inside your finances with cautious planning and good methods:

Low season journey

Financial savings could be made by touring within the low season. In the event you keep away from the most important vacationer bumps, you may not solely discover cheaper airfares and lodging, however you may additionally take pleasure in a extra relaxed journey with fewer crowds.

Loyalty and miles applications

Take into account becoming a member of the loyalty program of a selected airline or lodge chain for those who journey with them incessantly. Throughout your return journey, you’ll be able to acquire factors and miles that may be redeemed for discounted or free airline tickets and lodging.

Plan and prepare dinner your meals

If you journey, consuming out can shortly add as much as a major expense. Plan to remain in lodging that has a kitchen and put together a few of your individual meals. That method, you not solely get monetary savings, however you even have the chance to expertise native markets and substances.

Versatile journey dates

The extra versatile you might be along with your journey dates, the extra you may save in your journey. Use on-line instruments and calendars to find out probably the most worthwhile days to fly. The price of your airline ticket can typically be diminished by adjusting your departure or return date by a day or two.

There are numerous components to contemplate when evaluating one-way and round-trip journey. Whether or not you are an adventurer on a finances, a spontaneous wanderer or a tradition seeker, the selection is yours. You must contemplate the nuances, weigh the professionals and cons and finally take the journey that fits your sense of journey.

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Which Is Cheaper – Return Flights Vs One Way Flights?

Last updated on Feb 23rd, 2024 by Renu Dahiya

When it comes to planning travel arrangements, the question of ‘Is it cheaper to book return flights or one way tickets ? is a common concern that frequently arises. In numerous instances, opting for one-way flights can provide travellers with enhanced flexibility and customization options. However, it is essential to acknowledge that this might not always be the most advantageous approach. Several factors come into play when making this decision, including the overall cost, routing regulations, potential cancellation fees, and the utilisation of miles/points, which warrant careful consideration.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the advantages and drawbacks associated with booking one-way and round-trip flights, let’s delve into an analysis of both options.

What Are One Way Flights?

One way flights offer travelers the convenience of reaching their intended destination without the need for a return journey. In essence, these flights take you from your departure point to your desired location without a mandatory round-trip obligation. This means you can book a direct flight or opt for a flight with layovers in other cities or countries. For instance, booking only one way tickets from Melbourne to Delhi (not return flights to Melbourne) – directly or with layovers.

Advantages:

• Whether you find unexpected opportunities to extend your stay or simply wish to explore different places at your own pace, the flexibility of a one-way ticket becomes a valuable asset.
• By decoupling your departure and return flights, you gain the opportunity to hunt for the best deals and discounts on your return journey which can potentially lead to substantial savings.

What Does Round Trip Mean? | Round trip meaning

Roundtrip or return flights are those flights that give passengers the convenience of travelling from one location to another and then returning to their original starting point, typically following the same route. For instance, if you were to book a round-trip flight from Sydney to Delhi and back (flights to Sydney return), you would be able to complete your round trip journey (return to Sydney) using the same airline or itinerary.

Round-trip Melbourne to Mumbai flight route on Google Flights . (The prices are subject to change.)

• With both the outbound and return flights planned and booked together, travellers can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their entire travel arrangement is taken care of well in advance. 
• With the overall cost of the journey already accounted for, there is greater clarity on the total expenditure, allowing for better financial preparation throughout the trip. 

Why Are Round Trip Flights Cheaper Than One Way Flights? | Return Ticket Vs One Way

Round-trip flights often boast more budget-friendly prices and several underlying factors contribute to this cost disparity when compared to one way tickets. These economic considerations shed light on the reasoning behind the pricing strategies employed by airlines.

Economies Of Scale

The fundamental reason for round-trip flights being cheaper lies in the principle of economies of scale. When a traveller books a round-trip ticket, they essentially purchase two flights at once. This consolidated purchase allows airlines to offer discounted fares as an incentive, encouraging customers to commit to both outbound and return journeys. In contrast, with one-way tickets, airlines can only sell a single flight, limiting their ability to provide the same level of discount.

Demand And Pricing

The demand for one-way flights often drives up their price. Many travellers opt for one-way tickets when their return plans are uncertain or when they plan multi-destination trips. This heightened demand for individual flights puts upward pressure on the prices. In contrast, a round-trip ticket, being more commonly chosen for a fixed flight itinerary , benefits from comparatively lower demand, leading to more favourable pricing.

Risk And Revenue Assurance

One way flights carry increased risk for airlines. If a traveller cancels or misses their one-way flight, the airline loses potential revenue from a return journey. To mitigate this risk, airlines price one-way tickets higher to ensure they can recover some revenue even if one segment of the journey is not utilized. On the other hand, round-trip tickets secure a certain level of revenue regardless of whether the traveller completes both legs of the journey.

Last-Minute Discounts

Airlines may offer last-minute discounts on one-way tickets to fill empty seats. If too many one-way tickets remain unsold close to the departure date, airlines may decide to reduce prices to maximize their capacity utilization. Conversely, round-trip tickets are less likely to face such price fluctuations as the demand for return journeys is already built into the booking.

For example – Here’s an example of the Melbourne to Mumbai flight route on Google Flights, showing return flights are cheaper than booking two one-way tickets. 

One-way Melbourne to Mumbai flight route on Google Flights . (The prices are subject to change.)

Additional Work And Resources

From an operational standpoint, one-way tickets may necessitate more effort and resources from airlines. Unlike round-trip tickets that can book the traveller on the same flight for both directions, one-way flights require the airline to search for an alternative flight for the return journey. This extra work involved in handling individual flight bookings contributes to the higher pricing of one-way tickets.

Is It Always More Expensive To Book A One Way Ticket?

Booking a one way flight is not always more expensive, as the pricing can fluctuate based on several factors. Airlines frequently offer discounted rates for round-trip tickets, making it costlier to book two separate one-way flights. However, there are times when opting for one-way travel proves more economical, particularly for international journeys or during peak travel seasons.

Additionally, some carriers may have exclusive one-way flight deals or promotions, presenting travellers with opportunities to secure cost-effective single tickets for their desired destinations.

Essential Steps To Take When Buying One-Way Airline Tickets

• Evaluate Return Flight Options – While booking your one-way flight, it’s prudent to assess the cost and timing of potential cheap return flights, especially if your travel plans require a flexible itinerary. Some destinations may have limited flight availability or higher costs for one-way returns. 
• Prioritize Flexibility – Opt for airlines that offer flexible ticket options or allow changes, should your plans evolve unexpectedly. Some carriers permit ticket modifications for a fee, providing a safety net in case you need to adjust your travel dates or destinations at short notice.
• Consider Travel Insurance – To safeguard against unforeseen changes or cancellations, consider purchasing travel insurance. This additional layer of protection can cover flight cancellations, medical emergencies, lost baggage, and other unforeseen events. 
• Compare Prices And Terms – Before making your final decision, compare prices and terms from different airlines offering cheap one way flights. Airlines often have varying policies, fees, and inclusions with their ticket options. 

Suggested Read: How To Book Cheap Flights To India?

One-way flights are frequently priced higher than round-trip flights, influenced by a myriad of factors. Airlines employ strategic pricing approaches to incentivize customers to book both the outbound and return journeys with them, resulting in discounted round-trip fares. Moreover, the demand for one-way travel on specific routes can also impact the pricing, driving up the cost of individual flights.

It is important to recognize that the decision to book a one-way or round-trip flight hinges on your unique travel requirements and preferences. For travellers with fixed itineraries and definite return plans, round-trip tickets often prove more economical and convenient. On the other hand, those seeking flexibility and open-ended journeys may find one-way flights better suited to their needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: why is it cheaper to book return flights than one-way.

Ans: Airlines offer discounts on round-trip tickets to attract price-sensitive leisure travellers who book both outbound and return journeys. This strategy optimizes seat occupancy and revenue.

Q: Do you pay twice for a round trip flight?

Ans: No, you do not pay twice for a round trip. A round-trip ticket covers both the outbound and return flights, requiring only a single payment for the entire journey. 

Q: Why are one way flights more expensive?

Ans: Airlines charge higher prices for one-way tickets to incentivize customers to book round-trip tickets, maximizing their profits. Additionally, travellers with urgent needs may be willing to pay a premium for the convenience of one-way travel.

Q: What happens if you book a return ticket and only use one way?

Ans: If you only use one way of a round trip flight, most airlines will cancel the remaining portion of your itinerary. Round-trip tickets are sold at a discounted rate under the assumption that both legs of the journey will be used. By not using the return flight, you violate the ticket’s terms and conditions, allowing the airline to cancel the unused portion. While some airlines may offer partial refunds for the unused segment, it is not guaranteed. 

Q: Are there any additional fees for cancelling a round-trip flight?

Ans: No, you will not be subjected to paying an extra or double cancellation charge in the event of cancelling a round-trip flight. The cancellation fee for a circular journey remains the same as it would be for a one-way trip. 

Q: What is an open flight ticket?

Ans: An open flight ticket is a type of airline ticket that allows travellers the flexibility to choose their departure and return dates within a designated time frame. Unlike regular tickets, open tickets do not have fixed dates, flights, or destinations specified. Due to their flexibility, open tickets tend to be priced higher than regular tickets.

Still uncertain about whether to choose a one way ticket or round trip flight? Fret not! Our team of seasoned travel experts at MyTicketsToIndia is here to guide you in finding the perfect and most affordable flight option that aligns with your unique needs.

With a remarkable 13 years of experience in the industry, we stand out as one of the leading flight-booking platforms specializing in affordable flights from Australia to India (and back), catering to your every travel desire. Our commitment to excellence extends beyond just offering cheap flights; we are devoted to ensuring your utmost satisfaction throughout your journey. 

Our round-the-clock, dedicated customer support team is at your service, always ready to provide detailed answers to all your travel queries. So, contact us today and let us be your ultimate travel partner!

About Renu Dahiya View All Posts

Renu Dahiya is a passionate writer who worships her profession. Her love for writing has encouraged her to pursue her career as a writer. Her friends call her a “travel worm” and always come to her to know some interesting traveling tips and destinations. Renu is a repository of knowledge about traveling who knows which place should be visited in which season. Oh yes, she is insanely in love with dancing too. Writer, traveler and dancer, a perfect combination! Without a doubt, she is a complete package.

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Onward Ticket: FAQ

Last updated:

Onward ticket? Can it be a return ticket?

When it comes to travel, one thing that can be confusing for many people is the onward ticket. To put it simply, an onward ticket is proof of your departure from the country you are visiting. This can be a return ticket or a ticket to another country. So, why do you need an onward flight ticket and how do you get one?

In this blog post, we will answer all your questions on onward tickets and help you navigate this process.

Did you miss a connecting flight? File a compensation claim online .

1. What Is an Onward Ticket?

An onward ticket is a “travel document” that shows proof of your intention to leave a country within a certain period of time. It is typically required by immigration authorities to ensure that travelers do not stay in a country illegally.

Theoretically, an onward ticket can be a flight, train, or bus ticket that proves you have plans to continue your journey to another destination. In reality, though, it may be tricky traveling without a flight ticket. For some reason, immigration officers like plane tickets much more than bus or train tickets.

What it means is that if you don’t have a plane ticket, you may be question more about your travel plans than if you have a plane ticket.

Onward ticket meaning: a proof of you leaving the country. Usually, it refers to a flight ticket back to your home country, or to another country.

It is important to check the entry requirements of the country you are visiting to determine if an onward ticket is required.

1.1 Can You Use a Bus Ticket as an Onward Ticket?

Theoretically, yes, you can use a bus ticket as an onward ticket.

However, make sure to check the entry rules of the country that you are going to, as they may be asking specifically for a plane ticket. You may still be okay if you have a bus ticket, or train ticket, even if they are asking for a plane ticket. But you can never be 100% sure of that – it depends on the specific airline employee (if they will allow you on the plane) and immigration officer at your destination (if they allow you in the country).

1.2 Can You Use a Train Ticket as an Onward Ticket?

Theoretically, yes, you can use a train ticket as an onward ticket.

As long as it’s a train to another country, and you’ll be leaving not later than your visa ends. Keep in mind, though, that you may be questioned more when checking in for the flight , boarding the plane and entering the country. For some reason, immigration officers and airline staff, put more trust in plane tickets.

Plane tickets are the best option for hassle-free travel.

2. Why Do You Need an Onward Ticket?

You need an onward ticket as a proof that you will be leaving the country.

More and more countries require visitors to have an onward ticket before they enter. This is to ensure that travelers do not overstay their visa and become illegal immigrants. Even though you could still overstay, right? Nothing is stopping you from that. But that’s the rules, and if the ticket is required, mostly you’ll be asked for it when boarding a flight to this particular country.

That leads us to the next question about onward ticket (number 3).

2.1 What Countries Require an Onward Ticket?

It’s best to assume that all countries require an onward ticket.

Not very helpful? I know, but that’s just the reality of travel.

So, it’s best to assume that you may be asked for an onward ticket, either when checking in for the flight or when going through the immigration on arrival. And in case if you decide to travel with a one-way ticket only, just be prepared for that conversation. It’s always a good idea to have an itinerary to share (it doesn’t need to be written down) and clear answers to questions like “how long are you going to stay” and “what’s your plan about where are you going to next”.

It’s the best to assume that all countries require an onward ticket. For the best experience, it’s a good idea to always have an onward or return ticket. You can also check the entry requirements here, on the website of IATA .

Here’s one example, I was traveling from South Korea to Uzbekistan. I don’t need a visa for Uzbekistan, and they don’t require an onward ticket (they don’t mention it at all on their government websites). However, I was asked for an onward ticket when checking in for the flight in South Korea. I didn’t have one, and was asked to sign a document stating that I’m taking the risk and that the airline won’t be held responsible in case I’m not allowed to enter the country.

You have to be prepared for this.

2.2 What Countries Don’t Require an Onward Ticket?

There’s no one list of countries that don’t require an onward ticket. Generally speaking, the less strict immigration process, the more loose onward ticket rules.

You can also check the entry requirements here, on the website of IATA .

It also depends on your nationality (your passport). If you don’t need a visa for some country, the higher the chance you won’t be asked for an onward ticket. For example, if you are a EU citizen traveling within the European Union (EU), there’s a 99.9% chance you won’t ever be asked for an onward ticket.

2.3 What Should You do If You’re Unsure About a Country’s Onward Ticket Requirements?

It’s always best to assume that you’ll need it.

If you’re going to travel without it, for your own safety and convenience, find at least one or two reliable sources for the entry requirements (where they don’t mention an onward ticket; to have better chances of getting on the plane).

3. Do Airlines Check for Onward Tickets?

Yes – airlines check for onward tickets/ return tickets .

The trickiest part is that they may ask you for a proof of an onward travel even if it isn’t required. And if you don’t have an onward ticket, sometimes, it will end well. They will just let you go, after you let them know of your travel plans. Other times you may be denied boarding.

4. What Happens If You Don’t Have an Onward Ticket?

There are three possible scenarios:

• You may be questioned more. At check-in or on the border on arrival to the country (airport immigration control).
• You may be denied boarding. It sucks, but it can happen. The airline staff may deny boarding if you don’t have an onward ticket. Especially when you are traveling to a country that clearly requires it. You won’t get a UK/EU flight compensation from the airline for this, and you won’t have a right to care if that happens.
• You may be denied entry and/or visa. This is the worst of the options. Because this may also mean a permanent or temporary ban to travel to the country. Plus, you can’t leave the airport, and have to fly back as soon as possible. And you have to pay for that – last-minute flights can be very expensive.

In some cases, they may give you the opportunity to purchase an onward ticket at the airport, but this is not guaranteed.

4.1 Can You Be Denied Boarding If You Don’t Have an Onward Ticket?

Yes, you can be denied boarding if you don’t have an onward ticket .

While the specific policies may vary by airline and destination, it is always a good idea to check the entry requirements of the country you are visiting to determine if an onward ticket is required. Failure to provide proof of onward travel may result in you being denied boarding or asked to purchase a return ticket before being allowed to proceed with your journey.

4.2 Can You Get Deported If You Don’t Have an Onward Ticket?

Yes, if you don’t have an onward ticket, you could potentially face deportation. This is the worst possible scenario.

5. How Do You Get an Onward Ticket?

There are a few ways you can get an onward ticket. The easiest way is to simply purchase a return ticket, or onward ticket.

If you are not planning on returning to your home country, you can purchase a ticket to a nearby country that you plan to visit next. Or, any country. It doesn’t have to be a nearby country. Just a country where you are going to next.

It can also be a refundable ticket to anywhere. You may cancel it later.

Another option is to use an onward ticket service. These services provide a reservation for an onward ticket, which is automatically cancelled (mostly in 24-48 hours). They are sometimes called “onward ticket rental services”.

6. Renting an Onward Ticket, How Does It Work?

Here’s how it typically works:

• You choose a service . There are several online services that offer rented onward tickets, such as OnwardTicket , Best Onward Ticket , and others.
• You provide information about yourself. You’ll need to provide some basic information such as your name, email address, and sometimes your intended travel date and destination.
• You pay the fee . These services usually charge a small fee, typically between $10 and $20. Some services offer a refund if you cancel within a certain timeframe.
• Receive your onward ticket : After you’ve paid, the service will book a real flight in your name and send you a legitimate booking confirmation. This booking will show up in airline systems, so if it’s checked by immigration officials or airline staff, it will appear valid.
• The company cancels the ticket. Usually, the company will automatically cancel the ticket after a certain period (24-48 hours). This means you can’t actually use the ticket to fly, but it serves its purpose as proof of onward travel.

It’s a real plane ticket, real reservation that you can check online.

If you rent an onward ticket, it’s a real plane ticket. It’s a real flight reservation that you can check online.

These companies usually are travel agents. At the same time, it’s important to note that while many travelers use these services without issue, there’s always a small risk. If possible, it’s safer and more reliable to book a refundable onward ticket yourself, or to have a next destination already planned.

Read more: Onward Ticket Review

6.1 Are Rented Onward Tickets Safe?

In short, renting an onward ticket always involves a risk.

There are three risk factors you should consider.

First, what is the company providing the service? Are they reliable? What are their reviews on Google, Trustpilot, Facebook, etc.? For your own safety, use services of only trustworthy companies.

Second, is this a real reservation? This you will be able to check only when you get the ticket. Go to the website of the airline and find the reservation. Mostly, you can do it on the “manage booking” section.

Third, this is not a real, real ticket. Well, it is a real ticket, and it isn’t a real ticket. This one goes without saying, but if someone asks, you can’t say that you rented an onward ticket. As after that they may not consider it a real enough proof of an onward travel anymore. This is a grey zone. It’s kind of legal. Because, hey, anyone can decide and change their travel plans, right? It is what it is.

Don’t forget about the validity! These tickets are valid for 24-48 hours only. If your flight gets delayed for long-enough, and you are needed a ticket on your arrival, it may also be expired already.

6.2 How Long Is an Onward Ticket Valid? (Rented Onward Ticket)

Some onward tickets are valid for 24 hours, while others – 48 hours.

The validity of an onward ticket varies depending on the service you use, and the ticket that you are buying. The same service may offer both 24 and 48-hour onward tickets. Make sure to check the validity period before making a reservation so that you do not run into any issues.

6.3 OnwardTicket.com Review (Onward Tickets in 60 Seconds)

OnwardTicket.com is a great service for travelers.

The speed at which they operate is impressive, providing tickets swiftly to ensure a seamless travel experience. The process is incredibly user-friendly, with clear instructions to choose your flight and receive your ticket. Plus, the affordability of their pricing is a huge bonus.

It’s a hassle-free, cost-effective solution for securing onward tickets.

Highly recommended!

7. Can You Get a Refundable Ticket Instead of an Onward Ticket?

Absolutely – this is one of the best options if you need a proof of an onward travel but can’t or don’t want to book a flight anywhere yet. Getting a refundable ticket instead of an onward ticket is a common strategy used by many travelers.

You can book a refundable ticket. Cancel it. And get the money back.

7.1 How to Buy a Refundable Ticket?

Buying a refundable ticket is a process similar to buying any other airline ticket, with the main difference being that you specifically choose a fare that allows for refunds. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Choose your airline. Some airlines offer fully refundable tickets, including Southwest, JetBlue, Delta , United , and American . Research which airlines provide this option for your intended route.
• Search for flights. For the simplicity, we recommend you to use an airline’s website. To make things as cheap as possible, look for shorter flights/cheaper flights. You will have to spend this money initially.
• Select a refundable fare. When choosing your fare, look for options labeled as ‘refundable’ or ‘flexible’. These fares are typically more expensive than non-refundable fares but can be cancelled for a full refund.
• Last but not least, read the fine print . Before finalizing your purchase, make sure to read the fare rules and conditions. Confirm that the ticket is indeed refundable and understand any terms or fees associated with cancelling the ticket.

Remember, refundable tickets are typically more expensive than non-refundable tickets, so it’s important to take this into account. Also, don’t assume that you’ll be getting back the money right away. It may take days, sometimes weeks.

Always check the cancellation policy before making your booking. Don’t just assume that the ticket is going to be fully refundable.

8. What If You Can’t Buy an Onward Ticket?

Maybe you don’t know where are you traveling next.

Maybe you are planning on applying for a visa extension, and don’t know yet when are you going to leave the country. You also don’t know yet, if they are going to give you that visa extension. Sometimes, you just don’t know.

Or, maybe you want to stay as flexible as possible. You want to have the freedom of traveling with one-way ticket. What are your options?

• You can take a risk. And just go. Without a proof of onward travel.
• You can book a refundable ticket. Just book an onward ticket somewhere. Cheap. Refundable. And then cancel it, if you don’t plan to use it. See the previous point to learn more about refundable flight tickets.
• You can rent an onward ticket.

It all comes with either some risk, or extra effort that you have to make. It’s one of the one-way international flights problems . There’s no perfect solution. Most likely there also won’t be a perfect solution in near future.

9. Do You Have to Print Onward Ticket?

Yes, it is better to print onward ticket. If possible. I know it sounds silly, but, again, this is the reality of air travel in many countries.

If you can’t print onward ticket, or you don’t want to do it, make sure you will be able to access your onward ticket without internet.

• Save it to your phone.
• Save it to your laptop or tablet, if you have one with you.
• Save it also somewhere on the internet, where you can easily access it from anywhere. Just in case something happens with your electronics.
• Write down the reservation number and flight data.

Do all the 4 steps, and you’ll be definitely fine!

10. Do You Need a Return Ticket to Enter the US?

Whether or not you need a return ticket to enter the US depends on several factors including the type of visa you hold.

With ESTA, it’s highly recommended. If you’re traveling on an F-1 student visa, you do not need a return ticket. Speaking of other short-term visas, such as B1/B2, a return ticket is recommended (because you may have to be able to prove the length of your planned stay in the US).

Don’t forget that you need a “visa” for connecting flights through the USA .

11. Onward Flight Ticket for Thailand? Onward Flight Ticket for the Philippines?

Do you need a return ticket to enter Thailand?

It’s a good idea to have it. If, however, you are planning on extending your visa, make sure to read the visa extension rules and be prepared for possible questions about your travel plans. Many people do so, you aren’t the first or the last one. Just make sure you have some plan, and it isn’t your 4th, 5th or 6th arrival in a short period of time, because then it may get tricky.

What about the Philippines? The same like with Thailand.

12. Do You Need a Return Ticket to Enter Australia?

You don’t have to have a return ticket when traveling to Australia. But, the immigration officers at the border may ask you for one , or for the proof that you plan to leave and can afford to do so before your visa runs out.

So, if you don’t have a return or onward ticket, be prepared for possible questioning on arrival and/or when checking in for the flight.

What is your experience with onward tickets? Have you even had any problems traveling without an onward ticket? Have you tried onward flight ticket rental services?

Featured photo by Natã Romualdo

About the author:

Kaspars Misins

Kaspars is a digital nomad and travel blogger who’s been traveling the world extensively since 2013. Since 2017, Kaspars has been writing about the less-known aspects of air travel, things like air passenger rights laws and regulations. He’s really good at simplifying complex concepts and making them easily understandable. Kaspars favorite airlines are Qatar Airways and Turkish Airlines.

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Seven Jurors Selected For Donald Trump's Hush Money Case, Former President Attacks Judge For "Rushing This Trial" – Update

UPDATE: A seventh juror was sworn in to serve during Donald Trump’s hush money trial, as proceedings ended for the day.

The juror, a civil litigation lawyer, was selected after a long day in which prospective panelists were grilled about their views and past social media posts. Although Judge Juan Merchan excused some potential jurors who had posted egregious anti-Trump messages, he allowed others who had posted political content indicating their views.

The judge also scolded Trump’s attorneys when the former president was heard muttering as they were questioning a juror. The judge had been questioning a potential juror who had posted video of the celebration following the 2020 election, which Trump lost.

Merchan has been telling selected jurors to expect to return on Monday for opening statements.

Still to be selected are five additional jurors as well as alternates.

Speaking to reporters outside the courtroom, Trump again attacked the judge, calling him “totally conflicted” and accused him of “rushing this trial and doing as much as he can for the Democrats.”

Jury selection will resume on Thursday, as Merchan has indicated that Wednesdays will be dark due to his other obligations. That could change if the case falls behind.

PREVIOUSLY: The first six jurors have been sworn in in Donald Trump’s hush money trial, after extensive questioning that included queries about past social media posts.

Twelve jurors and as many as six alternates have to be seated before testimony begins.

Judge Juan Merchan also the jury that they could plan for opening statements on Monday.

Merchan then continued jury selection. Among those queried was a retired New York city law enforcement officer who now works for two security firms. He said that he was once to serve on a jury in a lawsuit involving Trump and Merv Griffin, but it was settled out of court.

“Donald Trump was one of the parties?” Merchan asked. “I think so. I’m not 100 percent sure.”

Trump sued Griffin in 1988 during a battle over control of Resorts International Inc. It was ultimately settled under a deal in which Trump retained ownership of the Taj Mahal in Atlantic City.

The prospective juror also said that he has friends who have committed crimes, laughing as he told the judge, “That’s the best I can tell you.” “They’ve done time. And you know, we’re friends,” the potential juror said, per a pool report.

PREVIOUSLY: Donald Trump’s lawyers have been reviewing potential jurors’ social media posts, calling out those whose pledges to be impartial may conflict with their affinities on Facebook and other platforms.

But Judge Juan Merchan scolded the former president’s legal team for Trump’s audible reaction as one potential juror was being questioned over her past Facebook post that showed an outdoor celebration, captioned a “full-on dance party,” apparently tied to the 2020 election.

The potential juror defended the post, telling the judge that she had been re-parking her car when she spotted the celebration. She said that “regardless of my thoughts about anyone or anything or political feelings or convictions,” the “job of a juror is to understand the facts of a trial and to the judge of those facts,” per a pool report.

After the juror left the courtroom, Merchan told Trump’s lawyers that as she was being questioned, “your client was audible.” He said that he could not hear what Trump was saying but that he was “muttering” and “gesturing.”

“I will not have any jurors intimidated in this courtroom,” the judge said, during Trump’s lawyers to speak to their client.

Merchan declined to dismiss the potential juror.

But he did excuse another potential juror who had a past social media post during the Trump presidency that read, “Good news!! Trump lost his court battle on his unlawful travel ban!! Get him out, and lock him up.” As the potential juror was being questioned over the post, Trump “flashed him a smirk,” according to the pool report.

Another juror also was excused over social media posts, including a parody video generated by AI titled “I’m dumb as f—” and featuring Trump.

But the judge declined to dismiss another prospective juror over social media posts that her husband made or shared in 2016, showing the extent to which Trump’s team is investigating the backgrounds of those in the mix.

“These are three posts. They are all fairly characterized as satire, I believe,” Merchan said. “None of them expresses the sentiment we saw in some others, a desire to see your client locked up or beheaded or something or other of that nature.”

He added, “The question is not whether someone agrees with your client politically or not. The question is whether or not they can be fair and impartial.”

PREVIOUSLY: Kara McGee, a jury pool candidate who was excused on Tuesday morning during the latest round of jury selection in Donald Trump’s hush money trial, told reporters outside the Manhattan courthouse she was disappointed to not be able to serve because of scheduling conflicts with her cybersecurity job. 

"I don't approve of what he did as a president," McGee told reporters, but added that the right to a fair trial was important enough to her that she could have put her feelings aside and judged the case impartially. 

"We all have prior opinions about the defendant," she added.

McGee described the mood among jury candidates in the courtroom on Monday and Tuesday as tense as they took turns answering a 42-item juror questionnaire covering jobs, hobbies, family life, political activities and feelings about the case. "People did seem nervous … like no one wanted to talk to each other," she said  

She said the gravity of the occasion was palpable: "You walked in and you felt like history was happening."

She added that her first thought on walking into the courtroom on Monday and seeing the former president was, "Oh, he looks exactly like he does on TV," she said.

Video via Sean Piccoli.

PREVIOUSLY: Donald Trump again blasted the judge in his hush money trial, before entering the courtroom this morning for what is a long slog through jury selection.

In what is likely to be a routine moment for each day’s proceedings, the former president stopped in the courthouse hallway to make brief remarks to reporters, seizing on the media’s need for visuals given the restrictions on cameras in the courtroom itself.

Trump called Judge Juan Merchan a “Trump hating judge” who should be recused from the case, although efforts to remove the judge have so far been rejected. Trump also again claimed that the case, involving hush money payments paid to Stormy Daniels in advance of the 2016 election, was orchestrated by Joe Biden. After Trump’s remarks, CNN quickly went to a fact check to note that the case is brought in the state of New York, not at the federal level, and by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.

Earlier today, on Truth Social Trump railed at some of the reporting on the trial’s first day, complaining of people “lying and spewing hate all day long” on TV. The New York Times’ Maggie Haberman reported that Trump dozed off at one moment during the proceedings, something that was quickly picked up by cable news and even late night comics.

Trump is under a partial gag order that prevents him from attacking the judge’s family and potential witnesses, among others.

The charges against Trump have to do with the recording of payments to his former attorney Michael Cohen as “legal expenses.” The indictment alleges that those expenses were actually reimbursement for hush money payments, and that it was part of a scheme to cover up damaging information in advance of the 2016 election. Trump told reporters today that “I was paying a lawyer and marked it down as legal expense. An accountant I didn’t know marked it down as a legal expense. That’s exactly what it was.”

Jury selection is expected to continue throughout the day today, with some 32 potential jurors remaining from an initial pool of 96. The process is slow, as each juror is given a list of 42 questions to answer as part of the voir dire process.

Outside the courthouse, the scene was quiet, with no demonstrators in the park across the street from the Manhattan complex.

More from Deadline

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• New York Judge Says Donald Trump Can't Attend Supreme Court Argument Next Week - Update

Jury selection under way in historic Trump criminal trial

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Reporting by Luc Cohen and Jack Queen in New York; additional reporting by Doina Chiacu in Washington; Writing by Andy Sullivan; Editing by Noeleen Walder and Howard Goller

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Reports on the New York federal courts. Previously worked as a correspondent in Venezuela and Argentina.

Legal correspondent specializing in politically charged cases.

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Solomon Islands election count underway, China critic Suidani regains seat

Daniel Suidani, a prominent Solomon Islands critic of China who was former Malaita province premier, has been reelected to the provincial assembly, as counting continues on Friday in the key Pacific island nation's election.

Israel launched an attack on Iranian soil on Friday, sources said, in the latest tit-for-tat exchange between the two arch foes, whose decades of shadow war has broken out into the open and threatened to drag the region deeper into conflict.

Airlines quickly changed flight paths over Iran, diverted to alternate airports or returned planes to their departure points on Friday in response to airspace and airport closures after an Israeli attack on Iran, flight tracking data showed.