Many flight connections cannot be booked directly but include a flight with a layover. This is especially common on long-haul flights: You transfer at a hub airport along the way before boarding your connecting flight and continuing your journey. But how does a layover work, what does it mean for your luggage, and how much time should you plan for it? In this article, you'll learn everything you need to know about layovers, including practical tips on how to make your trip stress-free.
What Is a Layover Flight?
A flight with a layover means that you don't reach your destination directly, but instead make a stop at another airport. There, you either transfer to another plane or remain on the same plane until it continues its journey. That's the layover meaning in a nutshell: the stop between two flights on the way to your final destination.
Layover vs. Stopover: The Differences
Layover: Usually shorter than 24 hours. You disembark, change gates, and board your connecting flight.
Stopover: A longer stay of more than 24 hours. Many airlines offer stopover packages so you can explore an additional city.
How Much Time Should I Plan for a Layover, at a Minimum?
The time required depends on various factors:
Same airline and terminal: 45–60 minutes is often sufficient.
Different airlines/terminals: Plan for at least 2–3 hours.
International flights: Additional passport and security checks may be required. Do you have to go through customs on a layover? Arriving in the US from abroad: yes — you clear immigration and customs at your first US airport. Connecting within Europe's Schengen Area or staying airside at many international hubs, you usually don't.
Tip: Before booking, check your airport's Minimum Connection Time (MCT) — this is the officially designated minimum layover time.
Flights with a layover – Baggage
If you have a flight with a layover, the type of booking plays a major role:
One ticket (through booking): Your luggage is usually automatically forwarded to your final destination.
Two separate tickets: You must retrieve your luggage at the layover and check it in again.
Keep important items in your carry-on luggage!
Since delays or lost luggage can always occur during layovers, you should carry important items in your carry-on luggage:
Travel documents and boarding passes
Medications
Valuables
A change of clothes for 1 day
Tips for Your Flight with a Layover
Estimate the walking time to the next gate
Especially at large airports like Frankfurt (FRA), Paris (CDG), or Dubai (DXB), the distances between gates can be very long. Allow plenty of time for your airport layover.
Check the airline’s guidelines!
Every airline has its own rules regarding luggage, layover times, and stopover offers.
Check these in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Make sure you have a Plan B in case of delays!
If your feeder flight is delayed, you might miss your connecting flight. If you booked everything through one airline, they are responsible for arranging a replacement. If you have separate tickets, you’re on your own.
Tip: Use Flightright to check whether you’re entitled to compensation in the event of a major delay.
What to Do on Layovers: How to Pass the Time
Discover the highlights of your airport
Many major airports offer attractions:
Singapore Changi: Butterfly Garden, movie theaters, rooftop pool.
Seoul Incheon: Cultural performances and museums.
Munich: Beer garden and visitor terrace.
Leave the airport and explore the city
Can you leave the airport during a layover? Usually yes — as long as you meet the entry requirements of the country you're in and have enough time. If you have a longer layover (over 6–8 hours), it's worth taking a quick tour of the city. Many airports offer layover tours, for example in Doha, Dubai, or Istanbul. Just remember: you'll need to pass through immigration on the way out and go through security again when you return.
Book a lounge pass
Airport lounges offer comfortable seating, snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, and often even showers. A Day Pass costs around 25–40 €.
Get some rest
Many airports have sleep pods, transit hotels, or rest areas. A quick power nap can work wonders. By the way: We've summarized the best places to sleep at the airport for you here.
Stay Active
Sitting for long periods makes you tired. Use the time to take a walk, do some light stretching, or stretch your legs. This improves blood circulation and reduces the risk of swollen legs.
