Flights with a layover: how to choose and not miss your connection
Single ticket or separate tickets, how much time to allow for a connection, what to check before buying and how to make your connecting flight.
A flight with a layover often costs less than a direct one and opens up more options by date and destination. But it has risks: missing the connection, losing baggage and extra expenses. Here is how to choose such tickets.
A single ticket or separate ones
A single ticket (a through booking) is issued as one order. If you miss the second flight because of a delay on the first, the airline is generally responsible for getting you onward, and baggage is usually checked through to the final point.
Separate tickets for each leg are often cheaper, but you are responsible for the connection. If the first flight is late, the carrier of the second does not have to take you, and the ticket money will not be returned. You will have to collect and check your baggage again.
If you take the risk, choose a single ticket or leave a large time margin.
How much time a connection needs
Rough guides:
- Domestic flights in one terminal: from 1.5-2 hours.
- International flights, one airline: from 2-3 hours.
- A change of terminal or airport: from 4 hours, and with separate tickets at least 5-6.
- A transit visa, passport control and collecting baggage: add another 1-2 hours.
A layover that is too long (10+ hours) is a reason to go into the city if your visa allows it. A short one risks missing the flight at the slightest delay.
What to check before buying
- Whether it is a single ticket and whether baggage is checked through: checked baggage rules.
- Whether a transit visa is needed in the connection country.
- Whether it is one airport and one terminal, and how long it takes to walk to the gate.
- The carry-on limits on each leg: carry-on size and weight.
- The refund and change terms.
How to avoid missing the connection
- Choose connections with a margin, especially in winter and at holidays.
- Check in online for both flights: online check-in guide.
- Check the gate number and boarding time right after landing.
- If the flight is late, tell the cabin crew and do not leave the transit area without need.
- Keep documents, boarding passes and a charger at hand.
How to find good options
Compare direct and connecting flights on Aviasales and in the HotTrip flight search: the price difference sometimes reaches a substantial amount. If you are planning a vacation, account for when to buy: when to book cheap flights. And do not forget to arrange insurance: travel insurance for trips abroad.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if I miss my connection?
If the ticket is single, go to the carrier's desk: you will be rebooked on the nearest flight. With separate tickets you will have to buy a new ticket yourself.
How much time should I leave for a connection?
Usually from 2-3 hours on international flights, and at least 4-6 hours when changing terminals or with separate tickets.
Do I need a visa for a connection?
It depends on the country and the route: for a transit without leaving the waiting area a visa is often not needed, and when changing airports or collecting baggage it may be needed. Check in advance.
Is baggage checked through to the final point?
With a single ticket usually yes. With separate tickets you will have to collect and check baggage again on each leg.
Cover: photo by Oleksiy Yeshtokyn on Pexels
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