Booking round-the-world (RTW) flights can be a cost-effective way to explore multiple destinations on a single trip. Many airlines and ticket providers offer specialized deals for RTW travelers, allowing for a structured itinerary while keeping costs manageable. Here’s how to find and secure the best deals on RTW flights.
1. Utilize Airline Alliances
Airline alliances like Star Alliance, OneWorld, and SkyTeam offer RTW tickets with customizable routes and competitive pricing.
- Star Alliance: Offers up to 16 stops and covers over 190 countries. Pricing depends on mileage or the number of stops.
- OneWorld: Provides flexible RTW tickets with over 1,000 destinations in 170 countries.
- SkyTeam: Focuses on popular RTW itineraries with attractive fares and route combinations.
2. Book Through RTW Specialists
Travel agencies and platforms specialize in RTW tickets, offering personalized itineraries and deals:
- AirTreks: Combines flights from multiple airlines to create budget-friendly RTW packages.
- STA Travel: Offers RTW tickets targeted at students and young travelers (check local availability).
- Flight Centre: Provides tailored RTW itineraries based on your preferences.
3. Compare Prices on Search Engines
Flight comparison sites and tools can help you find the most affordable RTW tickets:
- Google Flights: Ideal for building multi-destination itineraries and tracking prices.
- Skyscanner: Allows you to search for multi-city flights and flexible travel dates.
- Kayak Explore: Displays RTW ticket options and highlights potential savings.
4. Leverage Stopover Deals
Some airlines offer free or low-cost stopovers in their hub cities, allowing you to explore an additional destination. Examples include:
- Singapore Airlines: Stopover in Singapore.
- Emirates: Stopover in Dubai.
- Qatar Airways: Stopover in Doha.
5. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons
RTW ticket prices often decrease during shoulder or off-peak seasons. Traveling in these periods can significantly reduce costs.
6. Take Advantage of Loyalty Programs
Frequent flyer programs can help offset costs with accumulated points or miles. Look for alliances that integrate with your preferred airline’s loyalty program.
7. Book Early for Better Rates
RTW tickets are typically cheaper when booked well in advance. Secure your flights 6–12 months before departure to lock in the best deals.
8. Opt for Flexible Itineraries
Some RTW tickets allow changes to dates and routes for a small fee, providing flexibility without breaking the bank.
9. Focus on Budget-Friendly Destinations
Incorporate regions with lower travel costs into your itinerary, such as Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, and South America.
10. Consider Budget Airlines for Segments
While full RTW tickets can be cost-effective, integrating budget airlines for shorter segments can lower overall costs.
Example RTW Ticket Deals
- OneWorld Explorer: Starting at $3,000 for three continents and customizable itineraries.
- Star Alliance Round-the-World Fare: Prices start at $2,500 based on mileage and number of stops.
- AirTreks Custom Packages: Starting at $1,500, depending on destinations and routes.
Tips for Securing Deals
- Use price alerts on travel platforms to monitor fluctuations.
- Be flexible with dates and routes to take advantage of seasonal discounts.
- Check for promotional offers during travel expos or on alliance websites.
Finding the best RTW flight deals requires research, flexibility, and strategic planning. With the right approach, you can maximize savings while exploring the globe.
