What Does Self Transfer on Google Flights Mean and How to Do It Safely

Ever searched for cheap flights on Google Flights and spotted an unusually low price with a note about “self-transfer”? Did you then wonder: Is this a hack? A trap? Or just a confusing travel term airlines don’t bother explaining?

Self-transfer flights can save you serious money—but they also come with real risks if you don’t know what you’re signing up for. This guide breaks down what self-transfer means in flights, how it works on Google Flights, and how to decide whether it’s worth the extra effort.

What is a self transfer on Google Flights

Definition and key concept

A self transfer means your trip is made up of separate tickets booked independently, even though they appear together in one search result. Google Flights stitches these flights together because they line up in time and routing, but the airlines treat them as completely unrelated reservations.

In practical terms, you are responsible for making the connection. If one flight is delayed and you miss the next, neither airline has any obligation to help.

How it differs from standard connections

With a standard connection:

• All flights are on one ticket
• Airlines protect you during delays
• Bags are checked through
• Missed connections are typically rebooked with the help of the airline

With a self-transfer:

• Flights are on separate tickets
• No airline protection if you miss a connection
• You usually collect and recheck luggage
• You must allow extra time
• You may even need to switch airports within the city, like getting yourself from New York City JFK to LaGuardia or London Heathrow to Gatwick

That’s the trade-off behind those lower prices. There are some inconveniences involved. 

How self transfer works in practice

Understanding how self-transfer actually plays out is the key to doing it safely.

Booking separate flights in one itinerary

On Google Flights, self-transfer itineraries often appear as a single result. However, behind the scenes, you’re booking two or more flights separately. You’ll receive multiple confirmation numbers, sometimes from different airlines or even different booking platforms.

This setup allows Google Flights to show combinations airlines wouldn’t normally sell together, which is where the savings come from.

Managing luggage and airport transfers

In most self-transfer scenarios, you have to pick up your checked bags, clear immigration (if necessary), recheck luggage with the next airline, and go through security again.

Some airports make this easy. Others don’t. Always check whether you have to switch terminals, change airports entirely, or re-clear security when you book an itinerary marked with self-transfer. 

Tips for timing and avoiding missed connections

Self-transfers reward patience and strategy. A tight connection can be disastrous if you have to self-transfer. 

As a general rule of thumb, we recommend a minimum self-transfer time of 2–3 hours for domestic travel and 4–5 hours (or overnight) or international travel. 

Pros and cons of self transfers

Self-transfer isn’t necessarily good or bad. It’s entirely situational.

Pros: cheaper fares, flexible routing

The biggest upside is price. Self-transfer itineraries can unlock:

• Cheaper long-haul flights
• Budget airline combinations
• Routes airlines don’t officially sell

They’re especially common in Europe and Asia, where low-cost carriers dominate. However, if cost is a large factor for you, and you’re uncomfortable with the risks involved with self transfers, consider setting up price alerts on Google Flights. This ensures you lock in the lowest possible price without sacrificing things like time and freedom. 

Cons: higher risk, baggage responsibility, extra transit time

The downsides should also be taken seriously, and include:

• No rebooking protection through the airline
• Lost time during delays
• Extra baggage fees
• More stress during tight connections

If your plans are inflexible—or you hate uncertainty—self-transfer may not be for you.

How to check for self-transfer options on Google Flights

Step 1: Search your origin and destination

Start with a normal Google Flights search. Self-transfer options can often appear when:

• You’re flying internationally
• You’re combining legacy and budget airlines
• You’re flexible with routing

Step 2: Look for multi-leg itineraries with separate carriers

Click into the flight details. If you see:

• Different booking references
• Airlines that don’t partner
• Notes about “separate tickets”

You’re likely looking at a self-transfer. Here’s an example of what a self-transfer ticket looks like on Google Flights. 

Step 3: Verify layover times and airport changes

Before booking:

• Confirm layover duration
• Check terminal or airport changes
• Research minimum connection times

Google Flights highlights some of this, but always verify independently before booking. 

Tips to travel safely with self transfers

If you’ve bought your ticket and are wondering how to self transfer efficiently and effectively, listen up. 

Keep buffer time between flights

More time equals less stress. If the savings aren’t significant enough to justify a long layover, it may not be worth it.

Check visa and transit requirements

Some countries require transit visas, even if you’re not leaving the airport. Self-transfer often means clearing immigration, which can trigger visa requirements you wouldn’t face on a single ticket.

Consider travel insurance for missed connections

Standard airline policies won’t protect you, but travel insurance sometimes will. Keep in mind you may have insurance through existing avenues, like credit card perks. If you feel you need further coverage in order to feel comfortable booking a self-transfer ticket, look for a plan that includes missed connections, delays due to weather, and additional accommodation costs. 

Conclusion

Self-transfer flights can look intimidating at first, but they’re really just another tool—one that trades convenience for savings. When you understand what’s actually happening behind the scenes when booking on Google Flights (or another flight search engine or OTA for that matter, like Skyscanner or Kayak) and plan accordingly, self transfers can open up cheaper routes and airline combinations you wouldn’t otherwise see. The key is knowing when they’re worth the effort and when the risk outweighs the reward.

When self transfers make sense

Self transfers tend to make the most sense when the price difference is significant and you have flexibility built into your schedule. They’re often a good option for long international trips, travel through major hub airports, or itineraries that include low-cost carriers. 

If you’re comfortable managing your own connections and not rushing from gate to gate, the savings can be well worth it.

Best practices to save money while avoiding stress

The safest way to approach a self transfer is to plan conservatively. Give yourself plenty of buffer time, double-check baggage and visa requirements, and avoid tight connections that leave no room for delays. When done thoughtfully, self-transfer itineraries can deliver real savings without turning your travel day into a high-stakes sprint.