44 Flight Booking Myths That Are Actually Wasting You Money

Myth 29: Booking One Airline Round-Trip Is Always Cheaper

It’s a common belief that sticking with one airline for a round-trip itinerary is the most cost-effective strategy—but in many cases, mixing and matching your outbound and return flights can unlock better fares and more convenient times. Many online search tools now allow for “hacker fares” that combine flights from different airlines to create your own custom itinerary. For instance, your outbound flight might be cheapest with a low-cost carrier, while your return could be better timed or cheaper with a legacy airline. This strategy can also help you take advantage of regional pricing differences, flash sales, or airline-specific promotions. Just keep in mind that if you mix airlines, you may face different baggage policies, and in the case of delays or cancellations, one airline won’t be obligated to help with issues caused by another. Still, for flexible travelers who do their research, splitting your round-trip across multiple carriers can lead to surprising savings—and sometimes even a better overall travel experience.