Originally Posted by
jdrtravel
What is the benefit of this over an open jaw? It should price out the same, and it seems like having two different PNR's would be potentially more annoying.
Depends due to the change fee. If each way is less than $200 then you'd be better off with them separate if you have to change one direction. Of course if you have to change both directions, then you'd worse off. If each leg is < $100 then it's a no brainer to book them separately.
Also, OP, the day before Labor Day is probably like Thanksgiving Day. Try booking a flight anywhere after noon, the options are slim to non-existent.