How to Choose the Best Airlines for Your Round-the-World Trip

Why Choose the Right Airline for Your RTW Trip?

A round-the-world (RTW) trip is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that spans multiple continents and countries. Choosing the best airline for this journey is crucial not only for your comfort but also for your budget and travel experience. The right airline can make a world of difference when it comes to convenience, flight schedules, and overall service.

With the myriad of options available, it’s essential to select airlines that suit your travel style, offer flexible itineraries, and provide value for money. Keep in mind that RTW trips involve long-haul flights, so comfort, inflight entertainment, and food quality should also be prioritized. Moreover, you’ll want to ensure that the airline provides good customer service and has a reputation for reliability.

Key Factors in Choosing the Best Airlines

When selecting airlines for your RTW trip, consider the following key factors:

1. Airline Alliances and Network

One of the most important factors is the airline’s network. Most RTW tickets are booked through airline alliances, such as the Star Alliance, OneWorld, or SkyTeam. These alliances allow you to book flights with multiple airlines under one ticket, making the journey smoother and more cost-effective. Ensure that the airlines you choose are part of a major alliance to provide you with better routing options and flexibility.

2. Cost and Fare Flexibility

RTW trips often require booking several flights, and costs can add up quickly. Look for airlines that offer competitive pricing, but also check for flexibility in terms of flight changes and cancellations. Some airlines allow you to change your travel dates without hefty fees, which can be essential when traveling around the world.

3. Comfort and Amenities

Given that you’ll likely be on long-haul flights, it’s vital to choose airlines known for comfort. Look at seat legroom, reclining options, and the overall cabin environment. Airlines like Singapore Airlines and Emirates are renowned for their excellent service and spacious cabins, making your long flights more enjoyable.

4. Inflight Entertainment and Dining

Long flights can be tiring, so excellent inflight entertainment can help pass the time. Airlines such as Qatar Airways and Air New Zealand provide a wide range of movies, TV shows, and games to keep you entertained. Additionally, make sure to check the quality of food and drink options, especially if you have specific dietary needs or preferences.

5. Customer Service and Reliability

Finally, consider the airline’s customer service and track record for reliability. Look for airlines with a history of punctuality and good customer service ratings. Websites like Skytrax provide rankings and reviews that can help you assess which airlines consistently provide excellent service.

Best Airlines for Round-the-World Trips

Here are some of the best airlines to consider for your RTW trip:

1. Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways is often considered one of the best airlines in the world. Known for its exceptional service, luxurious cabins, and extensive route network, it’s an excellent choice for RTW travelers. The airline is part of the OneWorld alliance, making it easy to connect to multiple destinations.

2. Singapore Airlines

For travelers seeking luxury and comfort, Singapore Airlines is a top contender. The airline offers world-class service, great entertainment options, and plenty of legroom on long-haul flights. As a member of the Star Alliance, Singapore Airlines offers many RTW ticket options that connect seamlessly with other airlines.

3. Emirates

Emirates is another excellent choice for RTW travelers, especially for those flying long distances. Known for its spacious cabins, gourmet meals, and fantastic service, Emirates is perfect for long-haul flights. The airline has a global network and offers connections to many popular RTW destinations.

4. Air New Zealand

If your RTW trip includes a stop in Oceania, Air New Zealand is a must. With friendly service, comfortable seating, and fantastic inflight entertainment, it’s a great choice for long flights. Air New Zealand is part of the Star Alliance and provides competitive RTW options for travelers looking to explore the Pacific region.

5. Lufthansa

For European RTW travelers, Lufthansa is a reliable and efficient airline. Known for its punctuality and strong European network, it’s a great choice for connecting to other major destinations across the globe. Lufthansa is a member of the Star Alliance, ensuring easy connections to flights worldwide.

Real Travel Stories and Tips

When planning my own RTW trip, I relied heavily on customer reviews and travel blogs to determine which airlines would suit my needs. I opted for a combination of Qatar Airways and Singapore Airlines for my long-haul flights, and I was amazed by the comfort and luxury each airline offered. The in-seat entertainment made the long flights enjoyable, and the food exceeded my expectations.

Another traveler I spoke to recommended flying with Emirates and Lufthansa for their excellent customer service and ease of connecting flights. They highlighted how easy it was to book a seamless RTW itinerary and how stress-free the journey was thanks to the airlines’ attention to detail.

Plan Your RTW Trip with Confidence

Choosing the best airlines for your round-the-world trip is an essential part of planning your adventure. By considering the factors outlined above—airline alliances, comfort, cost, and customer service—you’ll be able to craft the perfect RTW journey.

Ready to start planning your RTW trip? Visit How to Travel the World for expert advice on finding the best airlines, booking RTW tickets, and creating an unforgettable travel experience.