If you’ve traveled by plane, you may have heard of layovers or already taken a connecting flight. A layover means the plane doesn’t go directly from your departure city to your destination but stops at another airport. There, you either change planes or wait a few hours for the next flight.
Connecting flights are often cheaper. If you want to reach Asia, America, or even a smaller European city, a ticket with a layover can cost hundreds of euros less than a direct flight.
Why connecting flights can be advantageous
- Lower price – Airlines often lower prices for flights with layovers to fill all seats. This can be a benefit if you have a fixed budget.
- Access to more destinations – Not all cities have direct flights. If you want to reach a less common or distant location, you may need a layover.
- More flexibility – You can choose shorter or longer layovers depending on what suits you. Sometimes you can even leave the airport and explore the city briefly.
- Frequent flyer points – If you’re enrolled in a loyalty program, connecting flights can earn you more points.
What to know before choosing a connecting flight
Not all layovers are the same. Some last an hour or two, others half a day. When booking, check the time between flights. Too short, and you might not reach the next gate in time, especially if you must pass passport control, visa checks, or change terminals. Too long, and you might get bored or tired.
Ideally, have at least two hours between flights, especially when changing planes at a large airport. Also, check airport facilities – seating, restaurants, lounges, or internet access. These matter if you have to spend many hours there.
- Time between flights – If you only have an hour to connect and must go through terminals or passport control, you risk missing your next flight. A layover of at least 2 hours is safest.
- Airport of your layover – Some airports, like Frankfurt or Istanbul, are huge. If you’re unfamiliar, you can get lost easily. Check the airport map in advance.
- Baggage pickup – Some layovers require retrieving your checked luggage and rechecking it, especially with different airlines.
- Visa – If your layover is in a country that requires a transit visa, check details before booking and allow enough time for the process.
How to prepare for a connecting flight
Connecting flights can be tiring, especially during long waits at the airport. Here are some tips to help:
- Pack all essentials in your carry-on – power bank, headphones, charger, book, a warm sweater, and snacks.
- Check the boarding gates – When you arrive at the airport, immediately check screens to see where to go. Don’t assume you’ll have enough time later.
- Wear comfortable clothes – Especially for long layovers. No one wants to spend 10 hours in tight jeans.
What to do during a long layover
If your layover is more than 4–5 hours, or even a day or two, here are some options to stay comfortable and entertained:
1. Stay in the airport
- Walk around shops or restaurants
- Try a lounge (many airports offer paid access)
- Exercise – a long walk helps more than you think
- Take a short nap, but mind the departure time
2. Explore the city (if time allows)
- Check if a visa is required
- Check travel time to and from the city (transport, traffic, etc.)
- Set an alarm and return at least 2 hours before your next flight
Examples:
- In Amsterdam, take the train from the airport to the city center in 20 minutes.
- In Istanbul, if your layover is over 6 hours, you have time to see Hagia Sophia or explore the bazaar.
3. Rest
- If you’re tired, a long layover can be a good opportunity for a nap.
- Bring a neck pillow and a light blanket.
Connecting flights can be a good choice if you care about cost or if there are no direct flights to your destination. They’re not always comfortable, but with preparation, they can be quite pleasant.
If it’s your first time flying or you feel anxious about flying, inform yourself, take all measures to make the flight comfortable, and try to enjoy the journey as much as possible.
Think carefully before choosing a connecting flight. Check the time between flights, airport conditions, and activities during your wait. With good planning, everything goes much smoother!
