Savvy travelers often use long layovers or stopovers between flights to add an additional destination to their itineraries. Airlines have caught on to the popularity of this type of travel and now offer round-the-world tickets, or RTWs. RTWs function similarly to layovers, except the passenger can plan extended stays in multiple cities across numerous continents. Each destination is part of a single ticket, streamlining check-in and baggage drop-off processes.
Depending on the itinerary, buying a single RTW ticket can be more cost-effective than multiple one-way tickets. Round-the-world tickets ensure that every flight is within the same airline alliance. This makes it easier to deal with common travel issues, like delays or cancellations. Purchasing RTW tickets requires advance planning. However, RTWs can also offer some flexibility. Travelers can stay at any destination along their route as long as their visa conditions allow. The only limit is that the entire trip must conclude should within a year.
Online flight booking platforms have made it possible for people to craft and buy an RTW ticket from scratch. Going this route opens the door to travel that extends for months or even years at a time. RTW tickets have limitations. The first is that the route must either go East or West from the starting point. This means travelers cannot go in the opposite direction once the trip has started. All trips must also start and end at the same airport. Here’s a two-step guide about what you need to take into consideration if you are interested in RTW tickets:
Plan the Itinerary
Based on the route direction, travelers can choose from up to 15 different destinations. Selecting the combination of cities depends on many factors, such as seasons and weather, cultural festivals and holidays, and the travelers’ budget. Airline Alliances and travel agents also offer pre-arranged routes. The most popular often include major metropolitans, such as New York, Bangkok, Paris, and Sydney. Other routes are based on interest, such as sporting events, significant landmarks, or wine tasting.
To make the most out of each stop, travelers should prioritize airports within an hour of the destination city. This reduces time spent in transit and gives travelers more time to explore. Travelers should also consider landing in accessible hubs, like Singapore or Paris, that provide access to other countries by public transit or car. Using other forms of transport in between destinations can add even more exciting stops to the itinerary. Generally, more stops mean’s higher ticket prices. Additionally, going from North to South and vice versa can also increase costs. As a result, many travelers select a few destinations within a single hemisphere and stick to destinations in that part of the globe.
Decide How to Buy the Ticket
There are several ways to book RTW tickets. The best option will depend on the traveler’s needs and budget.
Direct booking is the most expensive method of purchasing RTW tickets. It is also the most flexible, as specific flights do not need to be purchased in advance. Passengers can buy RTW tickets directly from the airline alliances Oneworld and Star. These alliances are made up of numerous national and private airlines that operate across the world. Every flight booked through an alliance will be through one of its partner airlines. Travelers can choose between economy and business class RTW tickets.
Another option is working with a travel agent who specializes in round-the-world travel. In this case, the agent will piece together flights based on your desired itinerary. Agents may or may not buy tickets from an airline alliance. If they create an itinerary made up of multiple airlines, the agent is responsible for addressing any travel issues and rebooking legs of the trip.
Working with an agent can be helpful, as they have a lot of expertise to offer. They will give their opinion on each destination and suggest accommodation or side excursions. Agents also offer around-the-clock support for their clients. However, cancellation charges or location-changing fees are often higher, and flights booked through agents may not qualify for air miles programs.
Travelers looking for the best deal can self-book their tickets through online flight ticket platforms like Skyscanner. When booking, the traveler can select one-way, multiple stops, and add on as many destinations as they want. Self-booking tends to be more affordable, as travelers can include budget airlines and short-haul flights in their itineraries. However, all stops must be purchased at the time of booking, so the itinerary of a self-booked RTW trip is more rigid. Self-booking eliminates many of the restrictions imposed by agents and airline alliances. There are also far fewer assurances.
Unlike alliance partners, budget airlines will not automatically rebook passengers whose transit flights are delayed or canceled. Without an agent, travelers will have to rebook flights themselves. Purchasing a last-minute flight can wipe out any savings from self-booking. Self-booking can also result in extraneous and potentially unexpected fees, since many budget airlines charge for meals and baggage separately.
Conclusion
Travelers looking for the biggest bank for their buck may be interested in an RTW ticket. Weigh the pros and cons of self-planning, booking through an alliance, or working with an agent before deciding.