Open-Jaw Flights Explained (Save Money on Multi-City Trips)

Open-jaw flights let you fly into one city and out of another. They save time, reduce backtracking, and can lower costs when you build a multi-city route in the USA, UK, or Europe. The key is knowing when an open-jaw is cheaper than a round trip.

What counts as an open-jaw ticket

An open-jaw itinerary has one leg that does not return to the original city. For example, you might fly into London and fly out of Paris after traveling by train in between.

When open-jaw tickets save money

• You are visiting two or more cities in one region.
• Backtracking would add a full travel day.
• Train or short flights connect the middle of your route cheaply.
• You find a cheap inbound to one city and a cheap outbound from another.

Sample open-jaw routes that work

• USA: Fly into New York, fly out of Boston after a rail loop.
• UK + Europe: Fly into London, fly out of Paris or Amsterdam.
• Europe: Fly into Rome, fly out of Milan after a northbound loop.

How to price open-jaw routes correctly

Use a multi-city search and compare it to two one-way fares. Sometimes a true open-jaw is cheaper, but not always. Always include baggage fees and seat charges before you decide.