Booking a round-the-world (RTW) flight can be one of the most cost-effective and efficient ways to explore multiple destinations across continents. However, finding cheap RTW flight tickets requires some strategy and research. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to find affordable RTW flights and save money while traveling the world.
1. Use RTW Ticket Search Engines
One of the most convenient ways to book a cheap RTW flight is by using specialized search engines and websites dedicated to finding the best RTW ticket deals. These platforms allow you to search flights across multiple airlines, often with discounted fares and flexible itineraries. Popular RTW ticket search engines include:
- AirTreks: Specializes in RTW and complex multi-city itineraries, offering personalized trip planning.
- Flight Centre: Known for booking affordable RTW tickets with the option to customize your journey.
- Round the World Flights: Offers a variety of RTW packages with flexible routes at competitive prices.
- Why use it: These platforms aggregate flights from multiple airlines and booking systems, which can help you find the best deals and avoid having to manually research each individual leg of your journey.
2. Book Through Airline Alliances
Many major airline alliances, such as Star Alliance, Oneworld, and SkyTeam, offer RTW tickets that allow you to fly with multiple airlines across the globe. Booking through an alliance can be more affordable and provide flexibility in terms of routes, dates, and destinations.
- Why use it: Airline alliances have established RTW ticket programs, and they often offer fixed pricing based on the distance traveled or the number of stops. By booking through these programs, you may benefit from discounts or additional perks (such as extra baggage or priority check-in).
- Tips for savings:
- Star Alliance RTW: Fly with over 26 member airlines, and plan up to 15 stops with flexible travel dates.
- Oneworld Explorer: Offers a choice of fares based on the number of continents you visit, with the option to travel on multiple Oneworld carriers.
- SkyTeam Global Award: Allows travelers to plan their routes across 19 member airlines, with discounts based on distance and number of stops.
3. Be Flexible with Dates and Routes
Flexibility is one of the most powerful tools for finding cheap RTW flights. The more flexible you are with your travel dates and routes, the better chance you have of securing a low-cost ticket.
- Why use it: Airfares fluctuate depending on demand, so being open to adjusting your dates can help you save money. Traveling during off-peak seasons (such as shoulder seasons or mid-week days) can also lower costs.
- Tips for savings:
- Use fare comparison tools like Google Flights and Skyscanner to identify cheaper travel dates.
- Consider visiting less popular destinations that may have lower flight costs.
- Take advantage of flexible date search options available through RTW ticket providers and airline alliance programs.
4. Set Fare Alerts
Fare alerts are an essential tool for travelers looking for cheap RTW flights. By setting up fare alerts for your preferred routes, you’ll be notified whenever prices drop, allowing you to book at the best possible rate.
- Why use it: Fare alerts can help you track fluctuating prices and avoid booking when fares are at their highest.
- Tips for savings:
- Use tools like Skyscanner or Hopper to set up fare alerts for your RTW trip. You can also use Google Flights to track price trends.
- Sign up for email newsletters from RTW flight search engines and airline alliances to receive exclusive deals.
5. Book in Advance
Booking your RTW flight well in advance can help you secure a cheaper ticket. Airline prices tend to rise as the departure date nears, so purchasing your ticket several months ahead of time is often a good strategy for saving money.
- Why use it: Airlines typically offer lower fares for tickets booked several months in advance, especially for international flights.
- Tips for savings:
- Aim to book your RTW ticket 3-6 months ahead of your trip to take advantage of lower prices.
- Consider booking RTW flights during sales events or promotional periods to secure the best price.
6. Take Advantage of Multi-City Flights
If you’re not ready to commit to a full RTW ticket, booking individual multi-city flights through travel websites can sometimes be cheaper, especially if you take advantage of low-cost airlines for certain segments of your journey. You can often combine major airlines with budget carriers to create a customized and affordable RTW itinerary.
- Why use it: Multi-city flight tickets can provide a similar experience to an RTW trip while giving you the freedom to mix and match different airlines and routes.
- Tips for savings:
- Use sites like Google Flights, Kayak, or Momondo to compare multi-city tickets and see if building your own itinerary will be cheaper than booking a traditional RTW flight.
- Incorporate budget airlines for shorter legs of your journey, especially in regions like Europe, Southeast Asia, and North America.
7. Look for Airline Promotions and Flash Sales
Airlines frequently run promotions or flash sales, especially during off-peak times. These sales often include discounted tickets for RTW trips, so keeping an eye on such deals can help you snag a cheap flight.
- Why use it: Airline sales can offer deep discounts, especially when airlines need to fill seats during slower periods.
- Tips for savings:
- Sign up for airline newsletters to receive notifications about flash sales, special promotions, and discounts on RTW tickets.
- Follow airlines on social media for limited-time offers or exclusive codes for RTW trips.
8. Consider Alternative Airports
When planning your RTW trip, consider flying into or out of secondary airports rather than major international hubs. Secondary airports are often serviced by low-cost carriers, offering cheaper fares while still providing access to the cities you want to visit.
- Why use it: Flying into alternative airports can significantly lower your overall flight costs, especially in cities with several airport options.
- Tips for savings:
- Look for nearby airports to your destination, and check if flights to and from these airports are cheaper than flying directly into the main airport.
- Consider train or bus transfers between airports if they’re located close to each other.
9. Use Points or Miles
If you have accumulated airline miles or credit card points, you can use them to significantly reduce the cost of your RTW flight. Many airlines allow you to redeem miles for RTW tickets, and some frequent flyer programs offer discounted RTW awards.
- Why use it: Using miles or points can drastically reduce the out-of-pocket cost of a RTW ticket, allowing you to stretch your budget further.
- Tips for savings:
- Check with your frequent flyer program (e.g., American Airlines AAdvantage, Delta SkyMiles, or United MileagePlus) for RTW redemption options.
- Use credit card travel rewards programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards or American Express Membership Rewards to transfer points to airline partners and book RTW tickets for less.
10. Consult with a Travel Agent Specializing in RTW Trips
If you’re overwhelmed with the process of finding a cheap RTW ticket, consider consulting a travel agent who specializes in RTW flights. These professionals can help you navigate the complexities of booking an RTW ticket and may have access to exclusive deals or insider knowledge that can save you money.
- Why use it: Travel agents who specialize in RTW trips often have access to special deals and can provide tailored advice on how to maximize your travel budget.
- Tips for savings:
- Look for RTW-focused agencies like Round the World Flights or Flight Centre that offer personalized trip planning and affordable ticket options.
- Ask about any special deals or bulk discounts they can offer.
