A layover is a scheduled stop between two flight segments on a journey to a final destination. It occurs when a traveler changes planes at an intermediate airport before continuing on the same itinerary. Layovers are typically short—usually less than 24 hours for international flights and under 4 hours for domestic connections.
How Layovers Work
When your itinerary includes a layover, you disembark from your first flight, wait at the connecting airport, and then board a second flight to continue your journey. The layover duration can range from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the airline’s routing and available connections.
Most passengers stay within the secure transit area during a layover, but those with longer connections may choose to exit the airport to explore the layover city—provided they meet visa or entry requirements and allow enough time to return.
Key Layover Considerations
- Security & Customs: For domestic layovers, you typically do not go through customs or immigration. On international itineraries, you may need to go through passport control at your first point of entry into a country—even if you have another connecting flight.
- Checked Luggage: If your flights are booked on the same ticket, your luggage is usually transferred automatically to your final destination. The exception is when entering countries like the United States, where you must collect and recheck your baggage after customs inspection.
- Airport Transfers: Some layovers require terminal changes, especially at large international hubs. Always confirm whether you’ll need to go through security again.
- Minimum Connection Time (MCT): Airlines ensure layovers meet the minimum time needed to connect between flights. However, tight connections may still feel rushed, so booking longer layovers offers peace of mind.
Layover vs. Stopover
Though the terms are often used interchangeably, they have different meanings in aviation:
- Layover: A break in travel under 24 hours internationally (or under 4 hours domestically)
- Stopover: A longer scheduled break, often used to explore a second city on the same ticketed route
Some airlines offer free or discounted stopover packages, especially in major transit hubs like Istanbul, Doha, Reykjavik, or Lisbon.
Can You Leave the Airport During a Layover?
Yes—if your layover is long enough and visa requirements permit, you may be able to leave the airport. A layover of at least 6 to 8 hours is typically needed to explore nearby attractions, allowing ample time for transport, security, and boarding. Always research entry rules for the layover country and plan conservatively.
Making the Most of a Layover
Whether you have one hour or ten, a layover doesn’t need to be wasted time. You can:
- Relax in a business lounge
- Enjoy a spa treatment or a meal
- Stretch your legs by walking the terminal
- Catch up on work or entertainment
- Sleep or nap in designated rest areas or airport hotels
- Explore the city (on longer layovers)
Business class travelers often benefit from priority reboarding, faster security lanes, and premium lounges, making layovers far more comfortable.
Pro Tips for Layovers
- Pack essentials (toiletries, chargers, a change of clothes) in your carry-on
- Check the airport layout and lounge options ahead of time
- Bring snacks, especially if your layover is overnight
- Set alarms so you don’t miss your next flight
- Use apps or airline alerts to monitor gate changes or delays