A layover is essentially a break in your journey where you switch planes en route to your final destination. This waiting period can last from 45 minutes to just under 24 hours for domestic and international flights. Layovers are quite common in air travel, especially for long-haul routes or when flying with budget airlines offering more stops.

During a layover, passengers deplane and wait in the airport until their next flight. In most cases, if your connecting flights are booked on the same ticket, your luggage will be checked through to your final destination, so you won’t need to pick it up during the layover. However, for international flights, the rules can be a bit different, and you might need to collect your luggage to go through customs before checking it in again for your next flight.

The difference between a layover and a stopover mainly lies in the duration: layovers are less than 24 hours, while stopovers exceed 24 hours, often allowing time to explore the layover city. Some airlines even offer stopover programs at no additional cost, encouraging passengers to spend more time in the connecting city.

So, whether you’re booking a flight with a layover to save on costs, due to route availability, or to break up a long flight, it’s always a good idea to check the layover duration, the airport’s amenities, and the luggage handling procedures to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

Yes, you can leave the airport during a layover, but there are several factors to consider before deciding to venture out. For domestic flights within the U.S., leaving the airport is generally allowed if you have enough time. However, for international layovers, the decision depends on the length of your layover, visa requirements, and whether your passport allows visa-free travel to the country you’re in. It’s advised to have a layover of at least four to five hours to consider leaving the airport, taking into account the time needed for transit, security, and immigration clearance both ways. Remember, if you decide to leave the airport, you’ll need to manage your luggage and ensure you have enough time to return, check in if necessary, and go through security and customs procedures again. Cities like Singapore, London, Dubai, Tokyo, and Amsterdam are great for exploring during longer layovers, thanks to efficient transportation systems and attractions near airports. Nonetheless, always plan your exit and return to the airport carefully, accounting for potential traffic, security wait times, and the time needed to retrieve and re-check any luggage if necessary .

Whether you need to go through customs during a layover primarily depends on where your layover is and where you’re headed. For international flights connecting through the U.S., you’ll need to clear customs at your first point of entry. In the European Schengen Zone, customs and immigration are usually bypassed if traveling between Schengen countries, but procedures vary for flights outside this area. Always check specific airline and country requirements beforehand to ensure a smooth transit .

The Emirates Stop Over Program, specifically Dubai Connect, is a great way to turn a long layover into a mini-vacation. If you’re flying through Dubai and facing a layover of 10 to 24 hours (or 8 to 26 hours for bookings after October 11, 2022), you might be eligible for some awesome perks. These include a free hotel stay, meals, and airport transfers, along with a visa if needed, across all cabin classes. Plus, with the Dubai Experience option, you can personalise your stopover with activities, dining, and tours at exclusive rates, alongside benefits like a 10% flight discount and flexible hotel check-in

When you’re traveling across the Atlantic with Icelandair, you have the fantastic opportunity to explore Iceland without paying extra for your flight. Whether you want to spend a day or stretch it to a full week, it’s your choice. Dive into the warmth of geothermal pools or watch the sky dance with the northern lights—all on the same ticket. Plus, you still get to experience everything at your final stop. It’s like getting to visit two places for the cost of one!

An innovative AI travel assistant that designs itineraries for your layover duration. Enter your stopover destination, and our AI algorithm will create tailored recommendations that fit within your layover duration. Explore around you during your layover and return in time for your flight. Instant, personalised, and global. Your go-to travel companion.