Round Trip Air Tickets or One Way Air Ticket: Which one should you book for your next adventure

If you're looking for the best flight deals and your plans are fixed, a round trip might be your best bet, but one way air ticket has its own perks. Read more to find out.

Updated On: November 27, 2024
8 min, Read

Planning a trip for your next business meeting or the much-awaited family vacation? Even if you have done a number of times, the excitement of picking a destination, deciding where to go and what areas to explore is always fun. But the excitement levels go down when it comes to booking your flight– mainly because of one important question that pops up: Should you book a round trip or a one-way air ticket? While booking a round trip seems like the obvious answer, however, booking one way air ticket has its own perks.

There are three main factors to consider when booking either a round trip ticket or a one-way air ticket – that is your travel plans, your budget, and your flexibility with your plans. Allows us to help you decide as we break down everything you need to know to help you choose the best option. Whether you're flying with domestic airlines or checking out the best flight deals for international flights, understanding the difference between a round trip and one-way ticket can save you time, money, and hassle.

What is a Round Trip Air Ticket?

Just like the name suggests, a round trip air ticket is one where you book both the outbound and return flights tickers together. It’s like buying a full package—you’re securing your departure and return in a single booking. The reason why round trip tickets are popular because they offer the convenience of having your travel plans sorted out in one go. You can easily book it for both domestic flights and international flights, often at a better deal than buying two separate tickets.

Benefits of a Round Trip Air Ticket

Cost Savings: In most cases, round trip tickets come with discounts, making them cheaper than purchasing two one-way tickets separately. When the airlines know that you will be flying back to your origin destination making it a sure shot sale for them they offers rewards and discounts for booking a complete journey.
Convenience: Not only it is ideal for the airline, but a round trip tickets are better for you if you have your trip planned in advance. You won’t have to worry about booking your return flight later. Everything is sorted at once, reducing the risk of fare hikes or unavailability when you’re ready to return.
Flight Status Updates: With round trips, you’ll receive flight status updates for both legs of your journey, ensuring you’re always in the loop.
Mileage and Points: For those who collect air miles or using credit card points, round trip bookings often present better deals for accruing and redeeming rewards.
Peace of Mind: Knowing your return flight is booked can make your trip more relaxing, especially if you're traveling internationally.

What is a One Way Air Ticket?

A one-way air ticket is a flight ticket that only takes you from your departure city to your destination. Unlike round trip tickets, one way air tickets don’t include a return journey. This option is ideal if you're not sure when you’ll return, or if your travel plans are flexible. It’s also great for those embarking on long-term trips, working abroad, or travelers who plan to leave from a different destination.

Benefits of a One Way Air Ticket

Flexibility: If you love to explore and don’t want your travel plans to be restricted by an outbound flight, then a one-way ticket is ideal for you as it offers ultimate flexibility. If you’re not sure of your return date, this is the best option for you. You can book your return whenever it suits you, or even decide on a different route home.
Perfect for Long-Term Travelers: If you’re traveling for an extended period, like a backpacking trip or a work assignment, one-way tickets allow you the freedom to plan as you go.
Different Return Destination: Exploring a new country with many popular spots or have a travel planned for different countries, Sometimes, you may not want to return to your original departure city. One-way tickets give you the flexibility to fly back from a different destination.
Flight Deals: You can hunt for great flight deals for your return later. One-way tickets also make it easier to keep an eye on flight group booking deals for future trips.

Round Trip Vs One Way Air Ticket: What’s the Difference?

So, now you know what each option is, but how do they really compare?

Factors	Round Trip Air Tickets	One Way Air Tickets
Cost	Cheaper, especially for domestic flights.	Usually costs more, however for international flights may be competitively priced, especially if you buy during flash sale.
Flexibility	They are low on flexibility as it locks you in with the specific dates you select. So, any changes in your plan are hard to accommodate.	If you have an uncertain itinerary or just want the freedom to change plans, one-way is the way to go.
Airlines	Domestic airlines often offer better round trip discounts, while international airlines may have a mix of deals for both options.	For budget airlines, one-way tickets can sometimes be surprisingly affordable, especially with last-minute bookings.
Convenience	Round trips are more convenient if your schedule is fixed. It’s a one-and-done solution that avoids the hassle of separate bookings.	But if you schedule is not fixed, then one way ticket should be the way to go.

FAQs

Which is more expensive—Round Trip Air Ticket or One Way Air Ticket?

Round trip tickets are generally less expensive compared to booking two one-way tickets. Airlines often bundle flights at a discounted rate when you book both legs of the journey together.

Why are Round Trip Air Tickets cheaper?

Airlines prefer passengers to commit to a round trip, as it helps them predict demand and fill up flights both ways. They incentivize this commitment by offering lower prices for round trips.

Are One Way Air Tickets expensive?

One-way air tickets can be more expensive, especially for international flights. However, there are times when you can snag a good deal on one-way tickets, especially during promotions or off-peak travel periods.

I have air miles and credit card points, is it cheaper to book a Round Trip Air Ticket or One Way Air Ticket?

It depends on your airline’s rewards program. Generally, you may get more value from booking a round trip if you're redeeming miles or points. Round trip bookings often provide better rewards, but always check the fine print!

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