I try to use vim without any plugins as I don't want to rely on them when I work on another system. Coming upon this same issue now, I can propose some 'better ways' (alternative ways) as requested by the OP:

c-w-| to have window take over (if using vsplits). c-w-= to restore. c-w-_ for horizontal splits
close the other window(s), thereby making current one fullscreen. Split and re-open from buffer to restore