Use two checks: before payment and before departure
Travel rules and airline operations can change after a ticket is purchased. RouteZA therefore recommends checking important requirements twice: once before committing to non-refundable travel and again shortly before departure.
Before you pay
Confirm that the traveller can complete every part of the itinerary, including transit countries and airport changes.
1. Passport and identity
International travellers should confirm passport validity and blank-page requirements with the destination authority. Domestic travellers should confirm which identification documents the operating airline accepts.
2. Visa and transit requirements
Never assume that being allowed into the final destination means every connection is automatically permitted. A transit visa, airport-transit visa or permission to enter the connection country can depend on nationality, airport, terminal change and whether baggage must be collected.
3. One ticket versus separate tickets
Through-tickets can make connections easier because baggage and missed-connection protection may apply. Separate tickets may require baggage collection, entry into the transit country and a new check-in. Build a larger buffer when self-transferring.
4. Check airport codes
Large cities can have multiple airports. London, Tokyo, New York, Bangkok, Beijing, Shanghai and other metro areas may use different airports with very different transfer times. Match the airport code—not only the city name.
5. Baggage rules
Compare cabin baggage, checked baggage, piece/weight limits and whether the allowance applies across every sector. Codeshare itineraries can involve different operating airlines and rules.
6. Schedule and terminal confirmation
Recheck departure time, terminal and operating airline before leaving for the airport. RouteZA route pages intentionally treat current schedules as live information that must be verified rather than permanent content.
7. Total journey cost
Include baggage, seat selection, transfers, overnight accommodation, visa fees where applicable, airport parking and connection-related costs. The lowest headline airfare is not always the lowest-cost journey.
RouteZA provides planning information, not immigration or legal advice. Use official government, embassy, border-authority and airline sources for current requirements applicable to the specific traveller.