What is the difference between a layover and a connecting flight?

When traveling, it's important to understand the difference between a layover and a connecting flight in order to properly plan your itinerary and avoid confusion.

What is a Layover?

A layover, also known as a stopover, is a break in your journey where you remain in the same airport before continuing on to your final destination. During a layover, you may need to change planes or wait for your next flight, but you do not need to collect your luggage as it is checked through to your final destination.

What is a Connecting Flight?

A connecting flight is when you take two or more flights to reach your final destination. Unlike a layover, during a connecting flight you may need to collect your luggage and check in again for your next flight, as well as potentially changing airlines or terminals.

Key Differences

The main differences between a layover and a connecting flight are the length of time spent in the airport and whether or not you need to collect and re-check your luggage. A layover is typically shorter than a connecting flight and does not require you to collect your luggage, while a connecting flight may require a longer layover and the need to collect your luggage and check in again.

It's important to note that when booking flights, layovers and connecting flights may be used interchangeably depending on the airline and booking site, so it's important to carefully read the flight itinerary to understand the specifics of your trip.