How to Plan a Multi-City International Trip

Start with the route, not the list

Draw the route on a map and avoid backtracking. A route that flows in one direction saves a day or more of transit.

As a rule of thumb, give each city at least two nights. One-night stops mostly buy you tiredness.

Sample routes that flow

Flights and open-jaw tickets

An open-jaw ticket lets you fly into one city and out of another, which avoids doubling back. It can cost more or less than a round trip, so compare.

• Check baggage rules on each domestic leg; they can differ from your international ticket.
• Keep at least three hours between a domestic flight and an international departure.
• Match your entry and exit airports to your visa.

Visas for several countries

For the Schengen area, you normally apply through the country where you spend the most nights, or the first entry if nights are equal. Other regions have different rules, so check each country in your route.

Keep the pace human

• Do not schedule sightseeing on transfer days.
• Allow a buffer day before a long-haul flight home.
• Choose hotels near stations or airports for early moves.