What are the reasons to take a connecting flight over a direct flight?
Are you planning a long-haul trip and trying to decide whether to take a non-stop flight or one with connections? Well, there are several reasons why taking a connecting flight may be the better option. From saving money on airfare to experiencing more of your destination’s culture, here are some of the most popular reasons why taking a connecting flight is often worth it.
Did you miss a connecting flight? File a compensation claim online.
Why Choose a Connecting Flight Over a Direct Flight?
Why connecting flight?
There are several reasons why a traveler might want to choose to take a connecting flight over a non-stop flight.
1. Price
Is a connecting flight cheaper than direct?
One of the biggest advantages of taking a connecting flight is that it’s often significantly cheaper than booking a non-stop one. Connecting flights tend to be more available and may have lower fares, which can save you money on your travels.
So if you’re looking to save money, a connecting flight may be worth it.
2. Availability
Sometimes, the destination you are traveling to may not have non-stop flights available. In this case, you may have no choice but to take a connecting flight to get there.
If you’re traveling to a remote or less popular destination, you may have no choice but to take a connecting flight. In this case, a connecting flight can be worth it to reach your destination.
3. Visiting Multiple Destinations
Another plus to taking a connecting flight is that it gives you the opportunity to visit more than one destination in your travels, providing you with a more comprehensive international experience.
With a non-stop flight, you’ll have just one stop; but with a connecting flight, you can fly into multiple cities and explore different cultures and attractions in each place.
Many popular airlines (including Turkish Airlines and TAP) offer layover deals for their transit passengers. A layover deal, also known as a stopover deal, is a travel itinerary that includes a long layover in a connecting city, typically between 6 to 24 hours, allowing travelers to spend time in the city before continuing to their final destination.
Some airlines even offer free layover tours or hotel stays for travelers who book a layover deal, making it an attractive option for travelers who want to save money and add an extra destination to their trip.
Learn more: Layover vs Stopover
4. Frequent Flyer Miles
If you are a frequent flyer, you may want to take a connecting flight in order to earn more miles. Airlines often offer bonus miles for connecting flights, which can help you earn more rewards.
4. Time Flexibility
If you have a more flexible schedule, taking a connecting flight may not be a big deal. In fact, some people may even prefer a layover as a chance to stretch their legs and grab a bite to eat in the airport. Especially if you are traveling with kids.
5. Airline Preference
Sometimes, you may prefer a particular airline over others, but they may not offer non-stop flights to your destination. In this case, taking a connecting flight with your preferred airline can be a good compromise.
Direct Flight vs Connecting Flight
Whether or not connecting flights are worth it depends on your specific travel needs and preferences. There are some situations where connecting flights can be a great choice, and other situations where they may not be worth the hassle.
Overall, taking a connecting flight may be the best option for those looking to save money and maximize their travel experience. While you’ll need to factor in the time it takes to switch planes and wait at airports, there are plenty of other ways to make the most of your journey. Whether you’re looking for an affordable way to fly overseas or a chance to explore multiple cities all with one trip, booking connecting flights is definitely worth considering.
Always keep in mind that while cheaper, connecting flights can be more tiring and time-consuming, with more chances for delays, missed connections, and lost baggage.
If you’re short on time or have a tight schedule, a connecting flight may not be worth the risk of missing your connecting flight or dealing with delays. Non-stop flights can be a better option if you need to arrive at your destination quickly.
If you’re traveling to a remote or less popular destination, you may have no choice but to take a connecting flight. In this case, a connecting flight can be worth it to reach your destination.
Overall, connecting flights can offer several benefits to customers. While they may require more time and planning for customers, they can provide more options and flexibility for those who need to travel to a particular destination.
Do you have questions about connecting flights? Ask in the comments.
About the author:
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.
