Connecting flights (layovers)
Planning a trip, not sure if layovers are for you?
“Layovers” are essentially when the plane has to make a stop, sometimes multiple stops before you reach your final destination. This usually occurs if there are no nonstop flights to your destination OR it is based on when you planned your trip OR just simply what the airline has to offer based on your airport. Layovers are more common in smaller towns/countries where their airports don’t have many airlines flying to and from their airport. As a result, you may be faced with flights with layovers.
Before purchasing your plane tickets, here are some things to consider:
PRO’s & CON’s
PRO: Typically, most flights have a minimum of one layover. If you fly internationally, expect at least 2-3 layovers with long wait times if you paid for a cheaper ticket. This can allow you to explore a new location in a short period. If you are not on a time crunch, this can be an option for you.
CON: The layovers can range from a 3-hour duration to almost a whole day. Most of the time, you will be stuck at the airport waiting to board another plane. This can be a waste of time… if you hate waiting or have a set schedule, this option may not be for you.
PRO: $ave money! Flights with multiple or long time layovers = cheaper. You can expect $100-300 price difference compared to a direct flight. If you don’t mind the wait or if you are on a tight budget, this will be an option for you. Tip: If you are on a budget, you can have shorter layovers getting to your destination and alternate with more layovers coming back home.
CON: Missing the connecting flight - flights can be delayed or boarding time can change (totally unexpected) and it’s out of your control. If you have multiple flights to catch before reaching your destination — this will impact you drastically, aka the butterfly effect. Some airlines are notorious for these circumstances so be sure to do your research before purchasing your flight!
PRO: Some airports (especially airports that fly internationally) are known to have high layovers (e.g. Incheon Airport, South Korea) and will have more services and offers to make passengers feel at ease while waiting. Based on my experience Incheon Airport offers lots of restaurants, shopping, areas to lay down, and even a place to take a shower at no additional cost.
Although there are a lot of pro’s and con’s when it comes to layovers, it honestly depends on how much $$ you plan to spend and how much time are you willing to compensate before reaching your destination.
*Disclaimer: All the information presented is based on my personal experience from foreign and domestic traveling. *
