Question 1

What is a layover?

Accepted Answer

A layover is a scheduled stop at an intermediate airport between two connecting flights. It can last anywhere from under an hour to most of a day.

Question 2

Can you leave the airport during a layover?

Accepted Answer

Usually yes, if the layover is long enough to exit and re-clear security and you are allowed to enter the country. Domestic connections are simplest; international ones require the right visa or transit status. Leave a buffer to return on time.

Question 3

Do you have to go through customs on a layover?

Accepted Answer

Not on domestic connections. On international connections it depends on the airport and route — some allow sterile transit, while others, like your first entry point into the US, require clearing customs and re-checking bags.

Question 4

What is the difference between a layover and a stopover?

Accepted Answer

A layover is generally a shorter connection (under 24 hours), while a stopover is a longer planned stop (often 24 hours or more) that some airlines let you add to a ticket, sometimes at no extra airfare.

Question 5

How long is too short for a layover?

Accepted Answer

For international connections, many airlines advise at least 60–90 minutes; tighter than that risks a missed connection if anything runs late. Leaving the airport needs several hours of buffer.

The Complete Guide to Layovers

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