An open-jaw ticket lets you fly into one city and home from a different one. It is a simple idea that can save you time, money and a lot of backtracking on longer trips.
How it works
Instead of a standard return, you book an outbound flight to city A and a homeward flight from city B. You make your own way between the two by train, bus, car or a short regional flight.
When it makes sense
Open-jaw routes suit touring holidays, such as travelling across a country by rail, or trips where you want to see two regions without returning to your starting point.
What it costs
On many routes an open-jaw ticket is priced similarly to an ordinary return. Sometimes it is a little more, but the time saved by not doubling back often makes it worthwhile.
Things to watch
Allow enough time for the overland part of the journey, check any border or visa rules between the two cities and keep a copy of every booking in one place.
Thinking about a trip with more than one base? Tell us the cities you have in mind and we will suggest the best way to link them.