How to Book Multi-City Flights in the U.S. for Less (Because Round Trips Are So 2008)

Multi-city trips in the U.S. can be cheaper and more fun — if you book them the right way. Here’s how to do it.

1. What’s a Multi-City Flight?

- You visit multiple cities on one trip

- Example: LAX → Austin → NYC → back home

- Booked as one itinerary vs separate one-way tickets

2. Why Do It?

- Often cheaper than separate flights

- Great for cross-country adventures

- Easier to manage as one booking

- More flexible return options

3. Use the Right Tools

Search with:

- Google Flights

- Kayak

- Skyscanner

- Momondo

- ITA Matrix (for advanced users)

Use the “multi-city” or “add flight” option.

4. Consider Booking Legs Separately

Sometimes cheaper with budget airlines:

- Southwest

- Spirit

- Allegiant

- JetBlue

Just watch baggage fees and tight transfer times.

5. Try Hidden City Ticketing

Use Skiplagged for:

- Booking flights where your real destination is the layover

- Never check bags

- Use sparingly — airlines don’t like it

6. Mix Airlines Carefully

Mixing can save money but adds risk. If you do:

- Leave long layovers

- Carry-on only

- Stick with alliance partners where possible

7. Open-Jaw = Bonus Savings

Example:

- Fly to Chicago

- Road trip to Nashville

- Fly home from there

Use the “multi-city” tool or book two one-ways.

8. Redeem Miles Smartly

Some point programs allow stopovers or multi-city as one award:

- Chase Ultimate Rewards

- Amex Membership Rewards

- Capital One Miles

- Aeroplan (stopovers for 5,000 points)

Check rules per airline.

9. Flexible Dates = Big Savings

- Avoid weekends

- Use calendar view to compare fares

- Be open to flying midweek

Search in incognito mode to avoid price hikes.

10. Final Word

Multi-city flights take more effort — but pay off in experience and savings. Use the tools, plan smart, and see more of the U.S. without spending a fortune.