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LOGISTICS

Complete guide to buying international flights

When to buy, what to look at beyond price, and how to reach the meeting point calmly.

4 min read

Our trips do not include flights, for one reason: our travelers depart from different countries and booking yourself is almost always cheaper and more flexible. Here is how we do it.

When to buy

For long-haul routes the sensible window is four to eight months out. Only buy once your place on the trip is confirmed — never before.

How to search

  • Compare on a broad search engine, then book directly with the airline.
  • Try flexible dates: one day either side can change the fare a lot.
  • Check alternative airports in the same city or region.
  • Look at baggage: the cheap fare rarely includes it.

Layovers: the three-hour rule

On international routes leave at least three hours to connect, more if you change terminal or alliance. A single ticket protects your connection; two separate tickets do not.

Arrive a day early

Our most repeated advice. Landing the day before absorbs delays, lost luggage and jet lag, and lets you start rested.

Before you pay

Check the name matches your passport exactly, passport validity, transit requirements and change policy.

In short: questions and answers

When to buy?

For long-haul routes the sensible window is four to eight months out. Only buy once your place on the trip is confirmed — never before.

How to search?

Compare on a broad search engine, then book directly with the airline. · Try flexible dates: one day either side can change the fare a lot. · Check alternative airports in the same city or region. · Look at baggage: the cheap fare rarely includes it.

What should you know about layovers: the three-hour rule?

On international routes leave at least three hours to connect, more if you change terminal or alliance. A single ticket protects your connection; two separate tickets do not.

What should you know about arrive a day early?

Our most repeated advice. Landing the day before absorbs delays, lost luggage and jet lag, and lets you start rested.

What should you know about before you pay?

Check the name matches your passport exactly, passport validity, transit requirements and change policy.