News & Advice

How to Book Round-the-World Tickets

The trip of a lifetime is easier than ever.
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In theory, a round-the-world flight sounds amazing: Book one ticket, and find yourself in some Jules Verne-level adventure. With today’s options, it’s never been easier to plan the vacation of a lifetime, but sorting everything out is often an adventure in itself. Here’s all the info you need to get going.

To alliance, or not to alliance

The most well-known way to traverse the globe before landing back in the States comes through alliances, like United Airlines' Star Alliance or American Airlines' OneWorld. These conglomerates partner with other major airlines, much like a hotel or restaurant group, so you can book your flights together and apply carrier-specific frequent flyer miles. The caveat is they often regulate the direction you have to travel (i.e. no criss-crossing), how many continents you must visit, minimum stays, and mileage. And as Scott Keyes, the travel expert behind e-newsletter Scott’s Cheap Flights explains, going through an alliance can also be expensive.

“Even with frequent flyer miles, you're restricting the airlines you can use and likely costing yourself more given taxes and fees,” he says. “A European flight for 12,500 United miles is madness when you can buy something similar on Ryanair for $20.”

Booking such a ticket in cash can cost between $2,000 and $10,000. Luckily, cheaper methods are out there. Third-party organizers, like AirTreks or Flystein, work to arrange all your flights according to your preferences.

“I know many folks who used trip-planning services and gotten great value from it, especially when they don't have much experience stringing together different itineraries,” notes Keyes.

Though convenient, these services also exclude budget brands. For penny-pinchers, Keyes recommends a DIY approach.

“Constructing your own RTW is absolutely worth it—you can see a ton of places at your own pace for as much as some pay just to visit Europe,” he says. “I could go on Google Flights right now and build an itinerary for around $1,000. [Using] an alliance (thus neglecting all budget flights, trains, etc.) comes out closer to $4,000, if not more.”

Tips for booking

Ready to take the plunge? Keyes has some advice for you.

“The first flights you should book are the trans-oceanic,” he says. “Those typically have the fewest options and are the most expensive. After you have those booked, start filling in the rest with budget flights and trains, which can be as low as $30.”

And pack light, in every sense.

“Don't try to pack in too much!” Keyes warns. “There's a temptation to hit as many places as possible, but the prospect of burnout is very real. Build in off-days. Similarly, don't pack too much—everything has to be schlepped on your back, and by day 25, that’s no fun.”

No matter what road you take, you’re in for one heck of a trip—it's just up to you if you're willing to pay for convenience, or put in a little more planning to save a bundle.