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Are Connecting Flights Worth It?


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Are connecting flights worth it?

It’s a question many travelers struggle with when booking airline tickets. On the one hand, they can be cheaper than direct flights; on the other hand, they involve long layovers and potential delays that could make them more expensive in time and money. In this article, we will explore both sides of the debate to help you decide if connecting flights are right for you.


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Are Connecting Flights Worth It?

Are connecting flights worth it?

Should I book a connecting flight, or better choose a direct one?

In this article, we will explore both sides of the debate to help you decide if connecting flights are right for you. We will look at factors such as cost savings versus convenience, comfort levels during long trips, and how to minimize the risks associated with connections.

1. Direct Flight vs Connecting Flight: Price

Often connecting flights are cheaper than direct flights.

There are various explanations as to why this is the case.

Connecting flights usually involve multiple stops, allowing for the airline to fill all of the seats on the flight which helps reduce the overall cost. Also connecting flights could involve multiple airlines, which could make them cheaper. If one airline does not have the capacity to operate a direct flight to a particular destination, they may partner with another airline to provide a connecting flight.

Air carriers use a hub-and-spoke system to connect passengers, where they concentrate their flights at one central airport and shuttle travelers from there to other locales. Utilizing this approach allows airlines to cut costs by becoming more efficient while also offering connecting flights for less money.

In many cases, the cost savings can be even greater when booking a multi-city flight than a regular connecting flight. Airlines often offer promotional deals on multi-city flights as a way to encourage travelers to visit multiple destinations in one trip.

Airlines use complex algorithms to determine the prices of their flights, and these algorithms take into account a variety of factors such as demand, competition, and availability. In some cases, booking a multi-city flight may trigger different pricing thresholds that result in lower overall costs.

Read more: Are Connecting Flights Cheaper Than Direct Flights?

2. Convenience of Direct Flights

Despite the potential savings, there are also some disadvantages.

One of the main drawbacks of connecting flights is the inconvenience.

It’s important to note that direct flights are usually much more convenient than connecting flights. You won’t have to worry about long layovers or the potential for delays due to missed connections. This makes it easier to plan your travel, since there is less uncertainty involved with direct flights. Additionally, with direct flights you don’t have to worry about arriving at the wrong airport or having to switch planes mid-journey.

3. Risk of Missing Your Next Flight

One of the biggest disadvantages of connecting flights is the increased risk of delays due to multiple stopovers in different airports. If one of your flight legs is delayed or cancelled, you could miss your connecting flight.

It is because, quite often, you will only be given a rather small amount of time between your arrival and departure, which can make catching your next flight difficult if there are any delays along the way.

To avoid missing your connection flight, try to book a flight with a longer layover. Try to avoid 1 hour or 45-minute long layovers. Book connecting flights with at least 2 hours between them.

4. Cost Savings Vs Time Spent

In addition to that, it is important to note that connecting flights may require longer travel times, so it’s important to weigh the cost savings with the time spent in transit.

Rain Vortex Waterfall in Changi Airport, Singapore
Rain Vortex Indoor Waterfall in Changi Airport, Singapore

5. Stress and Hassle

Also don’t forget about the additional stress and hassle.

Traveling on a connecting flight can be stressful, especially if you’re not prepared for the potential challenges. One of the biggest concerns, as we have discussed before, is the risk of missed connections due to delays or cancellations.

If your first flight is delayed, you may have to rush through the airport to catch your connecting flight or even miss it altogether. This can lead to frustration, anxiety, and potentially missing important events or appointments at your destination.

Additionally, traveling on a connecting flight means having to navigate multiple airports and terminals which can be confusing and time-consuming. You may also have to deal with long layovers which can be boring and uncomfortable, especially if there are limited amenities available.

To minimize stress and hassle when traveling on a connecting flight, it’s important to plan ahead and allow plenty of time between flights in case of delays or unexpected issues. It’s also a good idea to pack light and bring essential items in your carry-on bag in case your checked luggage doesn’t make it onto your connecting flight.

It is important to factor these potential drawbacks into your decision when considering whether or not to fly via a connecting flight.

6. Delayed or Lost Baggage

This is one of the risks associated with connecting flights.

If your first flight is delayed, there may not be enough time for your checked bags to make it onto your connecting flight. This can result in a frustrating and inconvenient experience as you wait for your bags to catch up with you at your destination or try to navigate without them.

In some cases, luggage may even be lost entirely, which can be a major inconvenience especially if important items were packed inside. To avoid this potential hassle, it’s recommended to pack essential items in your carry-on bag, such as medications or valuables.

Read more:

7. Breaking up Long Journeys

Despite all the pros we’ve mentioned in this article, long connecting flights, sadly, are not for everyone.

Connecting flights can be better for people with injuries than direct flights because they allow for more opportunities to move around and stretch during the layover.

If you have a long-haul flight, sitting in the same position for an extended period of time can cause discomfort or even exacerbate existing injuries. A connecting flight provides a break in between flights, allowing you to get up and walk around or do some light stretching to improve circulation and reduce stiffness.

Are Connecting Flights Worth It: Bottom Line

If you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind the longer travel time, connecting flights can be a good option. However, if you’re short on time or prefer a more streamlined travel experience, a direct flight may be a better option.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preferences and priorities. It’s a good idea to compare the options and weigh the benefits and drawbacks to make an informed decision.

Read more: Are connecting flights easy?

Do you have questions about booking connecting flights, or connecting flights in general? Ask in the comments.

Featured photo by Kürşat Kuzu from Pexels

About the author:

Co-founder and Editor at Connecting Flights Guide

Una is an organized globetrotter and foodie who’s been living a digital nomad lifestyle since 2013. She always starts her day early with a good book before diving into work. Apart from traveling and aviation, her other passions include gym, hiking and cycling. Una is also a strong proponent of AI technology. She firmly believes in its potential to simplify life and has often advocated for its wider adoption in our day-to-day activities. Her favorite airlines are Qatar Airways, Emirates, and KLM.

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Connecting Flights Guide

Your go-to guide to air travel rules and regulations. Connecting flights, self transfer, onward tickets and more – we want you to understand air travel better


This article may contain compensated links. Learn more in our disclaimer.



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