This isn’t just a rumor or a traveler’s myth—it’s a real market phenomenon, and Peru is no exception.
According to Forbes travel and personal finance contributor Alexandra Talty, “If you’re flying into a smaller airport or booking an international route, a one-way ticket can often cost the same—or even more—than a round-trip fare,” she told BBC Mundo.
It might sound like a pricing paradox, but there’s a logical (albeit strategic) explanation behind it. In fact, it’s such a complex system that even after hearing the reasoning, most people still see it as a pricing puzzle.
But it’s true: you can pay more for a one-way ticket than for a return trip.
Why Does This Happen?
The main reason is simple—airlines want to lock in passengers. When you buy a round-trip ticket, the airline secures your full travel plan, allowing them to better manage resources, predict demand, and minimize financial risk. It’s a win-win: they gain stability, and you get a cheaper fare.
For example, as reported by BBC Mundo, on January 24, a major airline offered the same international route for the following:
Round-trip (Feb 1–Feb 14): $644 USD
One-way (Feb 1 only): $666 USD
In other words, flying one way cost more than booking a round trip.
This pricing logic is even more pronounced in markets with limited competition, where airlines use subtle strategies to nudge travelers into round-trip purchases—sometimes even penalizing you for choosing one-way options.
And yes, this can cause complications—during booking, check-in, or even when passing through immigration.
Talty explains: “As a travel journalist, I often buy one-way tickets because I never know how long a story will take. And yes, I’ve had to be strategic.”
What If You Only Need a One-Way Flight?
Fortunately, travel markets are evolving, and the growth of low-cost airlines is shaking things up—including in Peru. Carriers like Viva Air, Viva Colombia, and Viva Air Perú are offering competitive pricing, even on one-way routes. Traditional airlines like LATAM are now adopting similar pricing models to remain competitive.
If you’re looking for the best deals, try flying into major hubs with higher competition and traffic—you’ll often avoid one-way penalties and enjoy better flexibility.
At the end of the day, airline pricing is just another part of the travel experience. With the right information and a bit of strategy, you can plan smart, travel cheap, and enjoy your Peruvian adventure to the fullest.
