Should you book one-way and return as separate bookings, or both together?
Together is usually right
Two reasons.
5% return discount applies automatically. The system recognises a return-leg booking and discounts it. See volume and return discounts.
Driver continuity sometimes possible. Same driver on outbound and inbound for short-window returns (e.g. same-day or overnight). Better experience for the passenger.
When separate is better
A few cases:
- You're not 100% sure of return date/time. Booking separately keeps flexibility.
- Different destinations. Outbound to Southampton, return from London — different routes, different vehicle category — book separately.
- Different passengers. Outbound family of 4, return solo — different vehicle needs.
Combined booking math
Southampton → London → Southampton with same vehicle:
- Outbound: £130 (per-mile, standard saloon)
- Return: £130
- Subtotal: £260
- 5% volume discount: does not apply (threshold is £350)
- 5% return discount: -£13
- Total: £247 (vs. £260 booked separately = £13 saving)