Booking multi-city itineraries can reduce travel costs by up to 30% and cut travel time by 20% compared to booking separate flights. Whether for leisure or business, these tips will help you plan smarter and travel better.
Key Takeaways:
- Use the Right Tools: Platforms like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Flight Booking 247 simplify finding the best deals.
- Be Flexible: Adjust travel dates (midweek is cheaper) and consider alternative airports to save up to 30%.
- Book Within Alliances: Save money and enjoy perks like connection protection and streamlined baggage handling with airline alliances.
- Smart Layovers: Turn layovers into mini trips with programs like Turkish Airlines’ free Istanbul tours.
- Open-Jaw Flights: Fly into one city and out of another for more efficient travel.
- Use Points and Miles: Leverage loyalty programs and stopover deals to maximize savings.
Quick Comparison: Multi-City vs. Separate Flights
| Aspect | Multi-City Tickets | Separate Flights |
|---|---|---|
| Savings | 15–30% | Varies |
| Connection Protection | Guaranteed | No protection |
| Baggage Handling | Automatic transfers | May need to recheck bags |
| Change Fees | One fee for all flights | Separate fees per flight |
Start planning your multi-city trip today and unlock savings, convenience, and exciting travel opportunities!
How to Book Multi-City Flights
1. Pick the Right Flight Search Tools
Finding the best multi-city flight deals starts with using the right tools. Standard flight search engines may work for simple round trips, but multi-city itineraries need platforms designed for more complex routes.
Popular tools like Google Flights and Skyscanner are great for comparing prices across airlines and dates. Their calendar features make it easy to spot the cheapest travel dates for each leg of your trip.
For more intricate routes, consider services like Flight Booking 247, which provides 24/7 live support. Their travel experts can help with tasks such as:
- Finding the best connections between cities
- Comparing options within and outside airline alliances
- Securing competitive rates for each segment of your journey
When using search platforms, make sure to activate the “multi-city” or “multiple destinations” feature. This ensures the system accounts for factors like:
- Airline partnerships and codeshares
- Interline baggage transfers
- Combined fare rules for better pricing
Don’t rely on just one tool. Some platforms specialize in alliance-based deals, while others are better at finding budget carrier combinations. Cross-check results on at least two search engines to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Finally, combining search engines with live support can help you uncover special fares and navigate complex itineraries with ease.
2. Choose Different Dates and Airports
Adjusting your travel dates and selecting alternative airports can lead to significant savings on multi-city flights.
Picking the Right Travel Dates
| Day of the Week | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Monday | $450 |
| Tuesday | $400 |
| Wednesday | $410 |
| Thursday | $430 |
| Friday | $520 |
| Saturday | $550 |
| Sunday | $480 |
Flying midweek – especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays – often offers the best deals. A simple shift in your schedule could save you hundreds of dollars.
Considering Alternative Airports
Your choice of airport can also make a big difference. Smaller, regional airports often have lower fares and shorter wait times. Departing from these secondary airports can save you around $50 compared to major hubs, with discounts reaching up to 30% during peak travel seasons [3].
For travelers in Los Angeles, options like Burbank (BUR), Long Beach (LGB), John Wayne (SNA), or Ontario (ONT) often provide cheaper fares and a smoother experience compared to LAX.
Helpful Tools for Comparing Prices
Platforms like KAYAK can simplify the process:
- Compare fares from multiple airports at once.
- Use fare calendars to spot the cheapest travel dates.
- Set up price alerts to track deals for your route.
For international trips, choosing the right airport is equally important. For example, if you’re flying to Milan, Italy, you might consider:
- Malpensa Airport for easier access to the Alps.
- Linate Airport for its proximity to the city center.
- Bergamo Airport for convenient connections to Florence [4].
Small adjustments like these can make a big impact on your travel budget.
3. Book Within Airline Alliances
Booking through an airline alliance can help you cut costs and make travel more convenient. The three major alliances – Star Alliance, SkyTeam, and Oneworld – offer extensive networks, making it easier to save both time and money. Here’s a closer look at what they offer.
Major Airline Alliances and Their Members
| Alliance | Key Members | Annual Passengers (2019) |
|---|---|---|
| Star Alliance | United Airlines, Lufthansa, Air Canada | 762 million |
| SkyTeam | Delta Air Lines, Air France, KLM | 630 million |
| Oneworld | American Airlines, British Airways, Qatar Airways | 535 million |
Save Money with Alliance Booking
For example, a June 2025 itinerary flying from Chicago to Frankfurt, then to London, and back to Chicago using United and Lufthansa (both part of Star Alliance) costs $1,874 when booked as a single multi-city trip. If booked as separate flights, the total would be $3,436. That’s a savings of $1,562 [5].
Benefits of Booking Through an Alliance
- One Reservation: Keep everything in one place with a single, manageable itinerary [5].
- Streamlined Check-in: Check your bags once and get all your boarding passes at the start of your trip [6].
- Connection Protection: If you face delays or cancellations, airlines will automatically rebook your flights [7].
- Frequent Flyer Rewards: Earn and use miles across all airlines in the alliance [6].
Perks for Elite Status Members
Travelers with elite status enjoy extra benefits that make frequent flying more comfortable. These include priority boarding, additional baggage allowance, access to lounges, and faster baggage handling [6].
4. Multi-City vs. Separate Flights
Deciding between multi-city tickets and separate flights can affect both your budget and travel experience. Here’s a breakdown to help you weigh your options.
Cost Comparison
Take this example: a June 2025 trip from Chicago to Frankfurt, London, and back, booked as a single ticket with United and Lufthansa, costs $1,874. Booking the legs separately would cost:
- Chicago to Frankfurt: $1,593
- Frankfurt to London: $105
- London to Chicago: $1,738
That’s a $1,562 savings when choosing the multi-city option [5]. Plus, booking everything together often provides added protections, which we’ll cover below.
Key Considerations
| Aspect | Multi-City Tickets | Separate Flights |
|---|---|---|
| Savings | Typically 15–30% on total fare [1] | Depends on the route |
| Change Fees | One fee for all flights | Separate fees per flight |
| Connection Protection | Guaranteed by the airline | No protection between flights |
| Baggage Handling | Transfers handled automatically | May need to recheck bags |
| Delay Impact | Airline helps with rebooking | You’re responsible for changes |
Beyond just price, these factors can make a big difference in your overall travel experience.
Hidden Costs and Risks
Booking separate tickets can come with unexpected costs and risks:
- Baggage fees: There’s a 20% higher chance of lost or delayed baggage when connecting on separate tickets [8].
- Missed connections: About 30% of separate-ticket connections may lead to overnight stays due to delays [8].
- Rebooking expenses: Airlines typically won’t help if you miss a connection on separate tickets [8].
When to Choose Each Option
- Multi-City Tickets are ideal for international trips within the same airline alliance. They offer perks like connection protection and seamless baggage transfers.
- Separate Flights are better for flexible plans, budget airline deals, or when exploring alternative airports and travel dates.
Each option has its place, depending on your priorities and travel style.
5. Plan Smart Layovers
Turn your layover into a mini adventure by using the time to explore a new city – without adding extra flight costs. Here’s how to make the most of it while ensuring you don’t miss your next flight.
Minimum Layover Time
To step out of the airport and explore, you’ll need at least nine hours between flights [9]. Here’s a breakdown of how that time might look:
| Activity | Time Needed |
|---|---|
| Immigration & Security | 2 hours |
| Transit to City Center | 30–60 minutes each way |
| City Exploration | 3–4 hours |
| Return Security/Check-in | 2–3 hours |
Airlines That Offer Layover Perks
Some airlines go the extra mile to make your layover enjoyable. Check out these options:
- Turkish Airlines: Their “Touristanbul” program offers free city tours for layovers between 6 and 24 hours in Istanbul. You’ll get to see landmarks like the Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar [12].
- Singapore Airlines: The “Singapore Stopover” program includes hotel stays and attraction access, starting at $30 [12].
- Qatar Airways: For layovers of 12+ hours in Doha, you can book hotel rooms starting at $23, with optional city tours available for around $20 [12].
Airport-Organized City Tours
Some airports offer free or low-cost tours designed specifically for layover travelers:
- Incheon Airport (Seoul): Free tours lasting 1 to 5 hours for layovers under 24 hours.
- Changi Airport (Singapore): Complimentary 2.5-hour tours, including Heritage and City Sights options, for layovers between 5.5 and 24 hours.
- Taiwan Taoyuan Airport: Four-hour tours for layovers from 7 to 24 hours, featuring stops like Taipei 101 [12][13].
Tips for a Smooth Layover Adventure
Keep these tips in mind to make your layover hassle-free:
- Check Visa Rules: Some countries allow transit visas or visa-free stays for short visits.
- Know the Airport’s Location: Pick airports with fast, reliable transportation to the city center.
- Handle Your Bags: Use airport storage services to lighten your load.
- Double-Check Flight and Attraction Times: Make sure your flight is on time and attractions are open during your layover.
Tools to Find Layover Opportunities
Use these platforms to plan your layover like a pro:
- Airwander: Helps you find stopover options and compare costs.
- Cleverlayover: Identifies layovers that could save you money [10][11].
6. Use Open-Jaw Routes
Open-jaw flights make multi-city travel easier by allowing you to fly into one city and leave from another. This method helps you save time and explore more destinations during your trip.
Types of Open-Jaw Routes
| Type | Description | Example Route |
|---|---|---|
| Destination Open-Jaw | Fly out from and return to the same city, but arrive and depart from different cities | NYC → Paris, Rome → NYC |
| Origin Open-Jaw | Depart from different cities but return to the same city | NYC → Paris, Paris → Boston |
| Double Open-Jaw | Both departure and return cities are different | NYC → Paris, Rome → Boston |
How to Book Open-Jaw Flights
Take advantage of multi-city search tools to book open-jaw flights easily:
- Google Flights: Great for comparing flight options.
- Matrix Airfare Search: Ideal for advanced routing.
- Alternative Airlines: Known for flexible search features.
- Momondo: Includes a multi-city search for added convenience.
These tools help you plan multi-city itineraries effectively.
Cost-Saving Strategy
“Booking an open-jaw flight where you fly into one city and out of another eliminates the need to return to your original departure point to fly home. This is great for travelers with limited time who want to efficiently explore multiple destinations without unnecessary transit time or backtracking. It can also save you money if you find a cheaper flight route.”
- Ben Smithson, Senior writer [14]
Real-World Success
In June 2024, a traveler managed to book a flight into Frankfurt and out of Milan for less than the cost of a traditional round-trip ticket to Frankfurt alone [15]. This example highlights how open-jaw routes can save both time and money when paired with smart planning.
- Look into nearby airports to find lower fares.
- Arrange ground transport between your arrival and departure cities.
- Book early to get better prices and route choices.
- Check alliance networks for more route flexibility.
7. Find Flight Deals and Mistakes
Snagging mistake fares can lead to huge savings on multi-city flights [18]. These unexpected discounts can make a big difference in your travel budget, especially for complex itineraries.
Here’s how to find, book, and protect these rare deals:
How to Spot Deals and Mistake Fares
Set up price alerts on tools like Google Flights and Skyscanner, and subscribe to deal-focused newsletters like Going.com or Jack’s Flight Club for updates on cheap fares [17]. Research shows that monitoring prices around 70 days before departure often yields the best savings [1].
Maximizing Your Chances
| Strategy | Potential Savings | Tips for Success |
|---|---|---|
| Flexible Dates | 15-30% | Look for mid-week flights (Tuesday/Wednesday). |
| Multiple Airports | 10-20% | Check nearby airport options for better deals. |
| Fare Alerts | Up to 30% | Focus on international routes for bigger discounts. |
| Loyalty Programs | 10-20% | Enroll in airline alliance programs for perks. |
Acting on Mistake Fares
- Book immediately through the airline’s website [18].
- Use a credit card for simpler refunds if something goes wrong.
- Wait for the e-ticket confirmation before making other travel arrangements [16].
- Avoid contacting the airline about the error to prevent the fare from being flagged.
Important Considerations
Mistake fares aren’t guaranteed. Airlines aren’t obligated to honor them, and about 10% of these fares get canceled. However, airlines usually provide full refunds if they cancel [18]. To reduce risks:
- Book directly with the airline.
- Avoid making non-refundable bookings (like hotels) until your ticket is confirmed.
- Save all booking confirmations for reference.
- Refrain from contacting airlines about the pricing error.
Using flight comparison tools can also help you save up to 20% on multi-city routes [2]. Be sure to compare multi-city and one-way ticket options to find the best deal.
These strategies can help you snag mistake fares and make them a valuable part of your multi-city travel planning.
8. Check Multi-City Baggage Rules
Understanding baggage policies is just as important as booking strategies when planning multi-city travel. Nearly 25% of travelers end up paying unexpected fees because they aren’t aware that baggage rules can differ between airlines and routes [20].
Key Airline Allowances
Most major U.S. airlines stick to consistent baggage policies for domestic flights, but international flights often allow for heavier luggage. Here’s a quick overview of some common guidelines:
| Airline | Carry-on Size | Checked Bag (Economy) | International Weight Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 in | 50 lbs free | 70 lbs |
| Delta Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 in | 50 lbs free | 70 lbs |
| United Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 in | 50 lbs free | 70 lbs |
| Lufthansa | 22 x 16 x 9 in | 50 lbs free | 70 lbs |
| Ryanair | 15.7 x 7.9 x 9.8 in | Paid only | 44 lbs |
Stopover Considerations
- Same Airline: Your original baggage allowances usually apply throughout the entire journey.
- Different Airlines: After a stopover, the new airline’s baggage rules will take effect.
- Direct Transfers: If your bags are checked through, they typically transfer automatically under the same rules.
- Extended Layovers: You might need to collect and recheck your bags during longer layovers.
Avoiding Extra Fees
About 30% of travelers exceed weight limits and face fees ranging from $50 to $200 [19]. To avoid this:
- Weigh your luggage at home before heading to the airport.
- Pack wisely, keeping different airlines’ weight limits in mind.
- Consider joining airline loyalty programs for potential extra baggage perks.
Interline Agreements
Many major airlines have interline agreements that make baggage transfers easier on multi-city trips. However, budget airlines often require separate check-ins and may charge additional fees. Always double-check transfer procedures when booking with multiple carriers. For complex trips, using airline mobile apps can help – over 70% of travelers rely on them for smoother trip management [20].
9. Know Fare Rules for Multi-City Trips
When booking multi-city flights, understanding fare rules can save you from unexpected fees. A study found that 40% of travelers are unaware of ticket-related fees [22]. Like baggage policies, fare rules differ by airline and can significantly impact the cost of your itinerary. Let’s break down fare types, seasonal pricing, and airline policies to help you navigate these complexities.
Fare Class Differences
Fare classes determine flexibility and perks. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Fare Class | Change Fee | Refund Policy | Priority Perks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy | $200 – $300 | Non-refundable | None |
| Premium Economy | $100 – $200 | Partially refundable | Limited |
| Business | $0 – $100 | Fully refundable | Yes |
| First Class | $0 | Fully refundable | Yes, plus extras |
Did you know that 80% of Business Class tickets allow free changes or cancellations? In contrast, only 5–10% of travelers opt for First Class. This explains why flexible fare options are a top priority for 55% of leisure travelers and 70% of business travelers planning multi-city trips [21].
Seasonal Price Variations
Traveling during peak seasons can increase ticket prices by as much as 50%. Here’s how you can save:
- Book during spring or fall, often referred to as shoulder seasons.
- Shop around on multiple booking platforms to compare prices.
- Mix fare classes for different legs of your journey to balance costs and flexibility.
- Keep an eye out for fare sales and promotional deals.
Change and Cancellation Policies
About 30% of travelers end up changing their plans [22]. U.S. airlines handle these situations differently:
- Delta Airlines: Offers no change fees on domestic flights, making it highly flexible.
- American Airlines: Fees depend on fare class and route.
- United Airlines: Policies vary based on ticket type and destination.
- Southwest Airlines: Stands out with no change fees for any fare class.
Hidden Fees and Restrictions
A survey revealed that 60% of travelers are unhappy with unclear airline change policies [22]. Be cautious of:
- Penalties for date changes
- Restrictions on certain flight segments
- Minimum or maximum stay requirements
- Blackout dates that limit travel options
- Routing limitations that may affect your itinerary
Loyalty Program Benefits
Frequent flyers with loyalty status often avoid many of these headaches. Members typically save around 25% on change fees compared to occasional travelers [21]. Additional perks include:
- Waived or reduced fees for changes
- Priority rebooking when flights are disrupted
- Access to more flexible fare types
- Higher baggage allowances
Understanding these fare rules and benefits can make your multi-city trips smoother and more cost-effective.
10. Use Points and Miles
Make the most of your rewards to save money on multi-city trips. In 2024, more than 51% of travelers used credit card points to cover travel expenses [23].
Alliance Benefits
| Alliance | Major Airlines | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Star Alliance | United, Lufthansa, Air Canada | Wide route network, easy connections |
| Oneworld | American, British Airways, Qantas | Priority boarding, lounge access |
| SkyTeam | Delta, Air France, KLM | Coordinated schedules, exclusive promotions |
Booking through airline alliances can boost your points earnings by up to 50% compared to sticking with a single carrier [23]. Pair these benefits with stopover programs for even more value.
Stopover Programs
Some airlines let you add extra destinations without increasing your ticket cost:
- Icelandair: Free stopover in Iceland for up to 7 days on transatlantic routes [24].
- Qatar Airways: Discounted stopovers in Doha, starting at $14 for 4-5 star hotels [24].
- Turkish Airlines: Free hotel stays – two nights for business class, one for economy [24].
Maximizing Point Value
According to NerdWallet, point values can vary widely: Alaska Airlines miles are worth 1.3 cents each, while Hyatt points are valued at 2.2 cents [25]. To get the most out of your rewards:
- Transfer points to airline partners for premium cabin bookings.
- Use Chase’s travel portal for affordable economy tickets.
- Keep an eye out for transfer bonuses during promotions.
- Combine points from multiple programs for better deals.
Be careful not to let your points expire – tips for avoiding this are covered below.
Avoiding Point Wastage
Around 30% of reward points go unused and expire each year [26]. Here’s how to ensure you don’t lose yours:
- Keep track of expiration dates.
- Join online groups for advice on saving points.
- Sign up for airline newsletters to stay informed on exclusive offers.
- Choose programs where points don’t expire.
“Rewards programs are like the hidden gem of the travel world. If you’re not utilizing them for booking multi-city flights, you’re basically throwing away free money. Who does that? Don’t be that person.” – Les Murano [23]
Special Considerations
Take advantage of unique airline perks when planning multi-city trips. For example, Japan Airlines offers free domestic flights for international travelers [24], while Iberia’s Hola Madrid program includes free transport cards and museum discounts [24]. Using a mix of points across different programs gives you more flexibility.
Over 70% of frequent travelers are part of loyalty programs [26]. However, turning rewards into real savings requires careful planning and smart point management. These strategies can help you maximize your travel budget while complementing the booking tips shared earlier.
Conclusion
Planning multi-city trips efficiently requires smart tools and strategies. Travelers who use these methods can save between 15–30% compared to booking each leg separately [1]. Here’s a quick recap of the most effective booking strategies discussed.
Cost-Saving Impact
| Booking Strategy | Potential Savings | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Advance Booking (3+ months) | Up to 30% [28] | Access to better routes |
| Mid-week Travel | 20% [1] | Lower base fares |
| Using Fare Alerts | 20–30% [27] | Get notified of price drops |
| Connecting Flights | Up to 40% [27] | Opportunity for extra stops |
Timing your bookings is crucial. For example, booking at the last minute can raise costs by 40% [27], while securing tickets roughly 53 days in advance often leads to the best rates [27].
Maximizing Value
Small adjustments can make a big difference. Shifting your departure by just a few days can reduce fares by as much as 60% [27]. Opting for budget airlines can also cut costs by 30–50% [28]. Flexibility is the secret to keeping expenses low.
Strategic Benefits
Loyalty programs can reduce travel costs by 25% [1], while comparison sites help save up to 30% [29]. Combining these strategies ensures a smoother, more affordable multi-city adventure.
