Learn How to Use Stopovers and Open Jaws to Save on Travel

Travel enthusiasts and digital nomads are always on the lookout for ways to maximize their travel experiences while minimizing costs. Two often overlooked strategies that can help achieve this are stopovers and open jaws. These techniques not only save money but also offer opportunities to explore additional destinations at little to no extra cost. Let’s delve into what stopovers and open jaws are, how to use them effectively, and some real-world examples to inspire your next adventure.

What are Stopovers and Open Jaws?

Stopovers: A stopover is a scheduled stop at an intermediate point on your journey that lasts more than 24 hours for international flights (and more than four hours for domestic flights). This allows travelers to visit an additional city or country without purchasing a separate ticket.

Open Jaws: An open jaw occurs when a traveler flies into one city and departs from another, allowing for overland travel between the two cities. For example, you could fly from New York to Paris, travel by train to Rome, and then fly back to New York from Rome.

How to Use Stopovers and Open Jaws

1. Plan Strategically:

• Look for airlines that offer free or low-cost stopovers. Many airlines provide this option as a way to encourage tourism in their hub cities.
• Consider the geographical layout of your destinations. Open jaws are particularly useful in regions with efficient and scenic overland travel options, such as Europe or Southeast Asia.

2. Research Airline Policies:

• Icelandair: Offers stopovers in Reykjavik for up to seven days at no additional airfare cost. This is perfect for exploring the natural wonders of Iceland on your way to Europe.
• Turkish Airlines: Provides free stopovers in Istanbul for passengers with long layovers. Istanbul’s rich history and vibrant culture make it a worthwhile stop.
• Singapore Airlines: Allows stopovers in Singapore for a nominal fee, offering packages that include hotel stays and attraction discounts.

3. Utilize Airline Alliances and Codeshares:

• Using alliances like Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or Oneworld can simplify booking open jaw tickets and stopovers. These alliances allow you to book multi-destination trips under one itinerary, often at a lower cost.

4. Use Multi-City Search Tools:

• Online travel agencies and airline websites often have multi-city search functions. Utilize these tools to compare prices and find the best routes for stopovers and open jaws.

5. Be Flexible:

• Flexibility with dates and destinations can open up more opportunities for stopovers and open jaws. Sometimes flying on a weekday or choosing a less popular destination for your stopover can result in significant savings.

Examples of Stopovers and Open Jaws

#1: New York to Bangkok via Tokyo with a Stopover

• Airline: Japan Airlines (JAL)
• Route: New York (JFK) -> Tokyo (NRT) -> Bangkok (BKK)
• Stopover: Tokyo
• Savings: Instead of booking separate tickets, you can book a single ticket with a stopover in Tokyo. Explore the bustling city of Tokyo for a few days before continuing your journey to Bangkok.

#2: Los Angeles to Paris with an Open Jaw to Rome

• Airline: Air France
• Route: Los Angeles (LAX) -> Paris (CDG), Rome (FCO) -> Los Angeles (LAX)
• Open Jaw Segment: Paris to Rome (travel by train or budget airline)
• Savings: Booking a multi-city flight can often be cheaper than two one-way tickets, and you get to visit two iconic European cities in one trip.

#3: Sydney to New York via Dubai with a Stopover

• Airline: Emirates
• Route: Sydney (SYD) -> Dubai (DXB) -> New York (JFK)
• Stopover: Dubai
• Savings: Emirates offers attractive stopover packages in Dubai, allowing travelers to experience the luxury and attractions of the UAE without additional airfare costs.

#4: Toronto to Hong Kong with an Open Jaw to Beijing

• Airline: Cathay Pacific
• Route: Toronto (YYZ) -> Hong Kong (HKG), Beijing (PEK) -> Toronto (YYZ)
• Open Jaw Segment: Hong Kong to Beijing (travel by train or budget airline)
• Savings: Take advantage of Cathay Pacific’s routes to explore both Hong Kong and Beijing, maximizing your travel experience.

More:

Stopover in Reykjavik: Flying with Icelandair from New York to London? Take advantage of a free stopover in Reykjavik and explore Iceland’s stunning landscapes for up to seven days at no extra airfare cost.

Open Jaw in Europe: Fly into Barcelona, travel by train through the scenic Pyrenees to Toulouse, and then fly back from Paris. This open jaw trip allows you to experience multiple destinations and cultures in one journey.

Game-Changers!

Using stopovers and open jaws can be a game-changer for savvy travelers. Not only can these strategies save you money, but they also offer the chance to explore more destinations. By planning strategically, researching airline policies, utilizing airline alliances, and being flexible, you can make the most out of your travel adventures. So next time you plan a trip, consider incorporating a stopover or an open jaw to enhance your journey and create unforgettable memories. Happy travels!