How to save money on one-way flights

Flight companies don't tend to make life easy for those of us who want to fly one-way. You might want to fly one-way because you plan to travel from your destination and return from a different location; or because you are returning by another form of transport. Flight companies prefer you to book return as it keeps their flights fully booked, makes life easier for booking and, for some destinations, there might be visa restrictions that require it. However, that doesn't meant there aren't ways to get reasonably priced one-way flights, and we've put together a list of a few tricks that will help you find the type of deal that best suits you.

 

One-way flights are usually more expensive on traditional carriers where providing services for return flight customers is the norm. It costs more to change booking systems when the majority want return flights, so, if you're after a one-way flight then try searching for a charter flight carrier. Charter flight carriers, like Thomson, provide carriage to a number of popular destinations, and quite often offer one-way flights at a cost that is cheaper than traditional carriers. They are after as many people to fill their flights as possible, and will charge for one-way tickets at a cost that is less than a return on traditional carriers. The drawback is that you might have to be more flexible with flying times and be absolutely certain of your leaving dates, as refunds and changes of departure are often not allowed.

 

If you know exactly when you're flying and you give yourself plenty of time to book, then you can find some of the best flight deals. Booking up to a year in advance of your intended departure can see you saving significant sums. Flight companies are keen on getting flights filled as early as possible and offer great incentives to do so. As soon as you know you can book, then do so.

 

If you don't mind getting up super early, and flying mid-week then you can find some great deals on one-way flights to all kinds of destinations, like Commercial Drive, Orlando. Early departures are great times to fly to get cheap flights, if it’s easy to get to the airport and you don't mind getting up early then stay flexible with your flights. Getting up early is the key. Also, finding a cheap deal can often mean flying mid-week. If you get your days right, leaving on a Tuesday or Wednesday, are usually the cheapest days to fly.

 

It might seem counter-intuitive but if you're looking for a cheap one-way flight to Lanzarote or Spain, you might actually be best searching for a return flight. Some flight companies offer better deals on returns than they do on one-way flights. If you don't mind ditching your return flight this can be a great way to save money on a one-way flight.