Connections, layovers and self-transfer trips

Connection rules vary by airline, airport and country. This guide is general; check the details of your own booking before you fly.

Many of the cheapest options have at least one stop. A connection can be smooth and save money, or it can turn a small delay into a big problem. The difference is often in the details.

Single booking or separate tickets?

This is the most important question about any connecting trip.

One booking

All flights are on one ticket. If the first flight is late and you miss the next one, the airline usually rebooks you. Your bags are often checked through to your final destination.

Self-transfer (separate tickets)

The flights are separate bookings joined together, sometimes by a travel site. If the first flight is late, the second airline may treat you as a no-show. You may need to collect bags, check in again and pass security, and sometimes immigration.

Check the partner’s site before you book. Self-transfer trips are usually labeled, and the booking details make clear whether the trip is protected.

How long should a layover be?

Each airport sets a minimum connection time for flights on one booking. That is a minimum, not a comfortable target. Allow more time when:

• You change terminals or airports.
• You pass immigration or security again.
• You collect and recheck bags.
• You travel at busy times or in bad weather seasons.
• The connection is on separate tickets.

Our guide to how long a layover should be gives practical planning ideas.

Using Cheaplyfly to compare

1. On the results page, check the stops and total travel time on each card.
2. Use the Stops filter to compare direct and one-stop options.
3. Use Max travel time to hide very long connections.
4. Before paying, check the connection details on the partner’s site.

Documents for connections

Some countries require a visa or authorization even to change planes. Check the rules for every country on your route, especially on self-transfer trips where you may need to enter the country.

If this, then that

• If a self-transfer saves only a little, a single booking may be worth the difference.
• If you must self-transfer, leave a long gap, travel with cabin bags only, and consider insurance that covers missed connections.
• If you miss a connection, go to the airline’s desk or app straight away. See what to do after a missed connection.

Read more in self-transfer flights: how they save money and what can go wrong.

Still stuck? For questions about your booking, contact the airline or travel site you booked with. For questions about Cheaplyfly, contact us.