Kiwi.com claims to be able to find you much cheaper flights than other flight search engines. While this claim holds some truth, there are a few important things to consider before booking. In this article, we'll explore how Kiwi.com works, its unique features, and the pros and cons of using the platform. We'll also provide you with an alternative list of flight search engines if Kiwi.com doesn't meet your needs.
What is Kiwi.com?
Kiwi.com is a flight booking site and mobile app that was founded in 2011 by two Czech entrepreneurs. Over the years, the company has shown remarkable growth and has been recognized as Central Europe's fastest-growing tech company and the best Czech startup.
How is Kiwi.com different from other search sites?
Kiwi.com focuses on finding the cheapest ticket above all else. They achieve this by curating unusual itineraries and routes that other online travel agencies (OTAs) don't typically offer. Let's take a closer look at some of the ways Kiwi.com achieves this:
Combining carriers
Kiwi.com often combines carriers and sells two separate tickets instead of one with a built-in layover. While this can lead to significant savings, it's essential to note that you'll have to collect and recheck your baggage between flights, and the second airline has no obligation to accommodate you if the first flight is delayed.
Obfuscating the purchaser's location
To secure cheaper prices, Kiwi.com may purchase tickets from another country where the prices are lower. However, this can lead to complications when it comes to refunds and currency differences.
Alternate airports
Kiwi.com searches for fares from alternate airports, even if you didn't consider them in your initial search. This means you might have to take a bus or train to another city to catch your flight.
Throwaway ticketing or skiplagging
Kiwi.com suggests booking a cheaper round-trip ticket with a layover in your desired destination. However, it's important to note that airlines usually cancel all future tickets on an itinerary if a passenger doesn't show up for a flight. This hack can work for one-way tickets, but for round-trips, it violates airline terms and conditions.
While these methods can result in significant cost savings, they can also come with their fair share of complications and risks. Savvy travelers with more time than money may find these methods worthwhile.
Pros and Cons of Kiwi.com
Pros of Kiwi.com
- No fee to use the platform
- Unique search methods that find cheaper flights
- Easy search for flexible travel dates and multiple locations
Cons of Kiwi.com
- Baggage complications when using multiple tickets
- Higher baggage fees when rechecking bags at transfer airports
- Complicated fixes if anything goes wrong with your itinerary
- Violation of airline terms and conditions with throwaway ticketing
- Inability to check luggage with hidden city trick
How to Use Kiwi.com with Going
Going provides alerts when flight fares drop from their normal price. You can enter your preferred departure airports, and Going will notify you about great deals from those airports. You can book directly with the airline or, if Kiwi.com offers a cheaper price, book through their platform.
Kiwi Flights
The Kiwi.com website prominently displays search fields for flights. You can search for flights from your current location, and the site offers prompts to add nearby departure airports to increase search results. You have the flexibility to search for flights to specific destinations or simply find the cheapest ticket.
Once you enter your destination, you can further customize your search by adding more destinations for a multi-city itinerary. Kiwi.com offers various search criteria options, including the number of passengers, luggage, and ticket type.
Kiwi.com's unique "Nomad" search option allows you to set a departure date range and trip length, and then add a list of destinations. The platform will find the best route for you based on these preferences.
Kiwi.com provides extensive customization for travel dates, including a calendar with ticket prices, the ability to select an entire month, and the option to select date ranges for departure and return flights.
When you have the dates you want, click "Explore" to view potential destinations sorted by popularity, price, and other filters. You can also set price alerts for flights you're interested in.
If you're open to any destination, Kiwi.com offers an "Anywhere" option that provides a wide range of places to choose from. You can further refine your search using filters such as "Things to do."
Kiwi.com Flights Reviews
Kiwi.com has received mixed reviews from customers. Some complain of not being informed about flight cancellations, while others found customer service to be unhelpful. It's important to consider these reviews when making your decision.
Kiwi Customer Service
Kiwi.com offers customer service through various channels, including the website and app messaging system. However, customer service phone numbers are only provided after you've made a booking.
Summary
While Kiwi.com can find great deals on flights, it's crucial to weigh the potential risks and complications. Unexpected circumstances can arise, and dealing with Kiwi.com's customer service may not always be smooth. However, if price is your top priority and you're willing to take on a small amount of risk, Kiwi.com can help you save money on flights.
Kiwi Alternatives for Finding Cheap Flights
If you're looking for alternatives to Kiwi.com, consider the following flight search engines:
- Kayak
- Skyscanner
- Expedia
- Travelocity
- Momondo
- Orbitz
- Going
Remember to explore different platforms and compare prices to ensure you're getting the best deal possible.
