What you'll save on connecting flights over nonstops
When it comes to flights, you usually pay a premium for convenience. That's why those dreaded red-eye flights are cheaper, and why flights at dawn almost always cost less than departures at more civilized hours. I call it "flying ugly" (and sometimes "flying hungry").
But here's a really "ugly" example: Nonstops versus connecting flights. Yes, those stressful multi-stop trips are almost always cheaper than direct routes.
Even starting with a handicap, ticket fees that can add an extra $21 to the fare, the difference between one-stop and nonstop flights can be stark. Savings vary, but here are some examples for departures the first week in December for a 7 night round-trip flight (including all taxes and fees):
Boston to Los Angeles - 42% premium for non-stop
- Non-stop airfare: $356
- Connecting flight: $250
Chicago to Atlanta – 52% premium for non-stop
- Non-stop airfare: $220
- Connecting flight: $144
Washington D.C to Denver – 22% premium for non-stop
- Non-stop airfare: $296
- Connecting flight: $242
New York to Tampa – 25% premium for non-stop
- Non-stop airfare: $180
- Connecting flight: $144
Bottom line: Depending on the domestic route you can realize from about 20% to 60% savings by skipping the nonstop in favor of a connecting flight. But is it always worth it? It depends on the scenario; I don't recommend this for families traveling with young children or during holiday periods when premiums are already high.
FareCompare CEO Rick Seaney is an airline industry insider and top media air travel resource. Follow Rick (@rickseaney) and never overpay for airfare again.