When searching for flights, you’ll often see two main options: direct (non-stop) flights and connecting flights with one or more layovers. Direct flights are faster and simpler, but connecting flights can sometimes be much cheaper.
This guide compares the two options so you can decide when it’s worth paying more for a non-stop, and when a layover is a smart way to save money.
Definitions: Direct, Non-Stop, and Connecting
First, a quick clarification of terms:
- Non-stop flight: Flies from your departure airport to your destination with no stops.
- Direct flight (in everyday language): Often used to mean non-stop, though technically a “direct” flight can have a stop without a plane change.
- Connecting flight: Your journey is split into two or more segments, and you change planes at a hub or intermediate airport.
In this article, we’ll use “direct” to mean non-stop, since that’s how most travelers think about it.
Pros of Direct Flights
- Less travel time: You go straight from A to B without waiting in a hub airport.
- Lower risk of missed connections: No tight layovers or delays between flights.
- Less stress: Fewer boarding processes, security checks, and boarding gate changes.
- Better for short trips: You spend more time at your destination and less time in transit.
- Better for families or mobility issues: Fewer airport transfers mean a smoother journey.
For many travelers, especially on shorter routes or important trips, the simplicity of a direct flight is worth paying extra.
Cons of Direct Flights
- Higher prices: Direct flights are often priced higher, especially on business-heavy routes.
- Limited schedule options: There may be fewer departure times to choose from.
- Fewer airlines: Sometimes only one or two carriers operate non-stop, limiting competition.
On some long-haul or less competitive routes, the non-stop option can be significantly more expensive than connecting alternatives.
Pros of Connecting Flights
- Lower fares (often): Adding a layover can reduce the price, especially on long-haul trips or busy business routes.
- More schedule flexibility: You may have more departure and arrival times to choose from.
- More airline choices: You can mix airlines within an alliance or via codeshare agreements.
- Possible stopover opportunities: Some trips let you turn a layover into a short visit in an additional city (if the airline or fare rules allow).
If you’re price-sensitive and don’t mind longer travel days, connecting flights can unlock solid savings.
Cons of Connecting Flights
- Longer total travel time: Layovers add hours to your journey.
- Risk of missed connections: Delays on your first flight can cause you to miss the second.
- More chances for baggage issues: Every connection is another point where bags can be delayed or misrouted.
- Extra airport stress: Additional security checks, boarding processes, and gate changes.
For tight schedules or important events (weddings, cruises, business meetings), these risks can outweigh the savings.
When Connecting Flights Can Make Sense
Choosing a connecting flight can be a good idea when:
- You find a substantial price difference compared to direct flights.
- You have a flexible schedule and don’t mind longer travel days.
- You’re comfortable navigating airports and handling layovers.
- You build in enough connection time to reduce stress.
On some routes, especially long-haul journeys between smaller cities, a well-planned connecting itinerary is normal and expected.
How Much Cheaper Are Connecting Flights?
It varies by route and season, but connecting flights can sometimes be:
- Just slightly cheaper than direct flights (for example, $30–$70 difference).
- Significantly cheaper on certain long-haul routes (sometimes $150+ difference or more).
A useful rule of thumb:
- If the savings are small, you may prefer the comfort and time savings of a direct flight.
- If the savings are large, a connecting itinerary may be worth the extra travel time.
Choosing Smart Layovers
If you decide a connecting flight is right for you, consider these factors when picking your layover:
1. Minimum Connection Time
Airlines and airports have a “minimum connection time,” but it may be tight in real life. Safer ranges:
- Domestic–domestic: Aim for at least 60–90 minutes if possible.
- Domestic–international or international–domestic: 90–150 minutes, especially if you must clear immigration, customs, and re-check baggage.
- International–international: At least 90 minutes, more if you need to clear immigration.
2. Airport Size and Reputation
Large, complex hubs may require more time to change terminals. Consider:
- Whether you’ll need to change terminals or even airports.
- Typical security and immigration wait times.
- Weather (for example, winter delays at certain hubs).
3. Overnight Connections
Sometimes an overnight layover can:
- Lower the fare further.
- Let you rest in a hotel between long flights.
- Offer a mini-visit to the layover city (if visa rules allow).
Just remember to factor in hotel and meal costs when comparing prices.
When Direct Flights Are Worth the Extra Cost
Paying more for a direct flight often makes sense when:
- You have a tight schedule or limited vacation time.
- You’re traveling for something important with a fixed start time (cruise departure, wedding, exam, etc.).
- You’re traveling with young children, elderly relatives, or anyone who finds travel tiring.
- You simply value comfort and a smoother experience over saving every last dollar.
Arriving rested and on time can be more valuable than saving a bit on the ticket.
Tips for Comparing Connecting vs Direct Flights
- Compare total travel time, not just departure time: Look at how many extra hours you’ll spend traveling with a connection.
- Include all potential costs: Meals at the airport, lounge access, or hotels for overnight layovers.
- Check baggage rules: Some cheaper connecting itineraries may have stricter baggage policies.
- Consider your own energy level: A long travel day with tight connections can be draining.
Simple Decision Framework
Ask yourself:
- How much money do I save by choosing a connecting flight?
- How many extra hours will I spend in transit?
- What is the risk if something goes wrong with my connection?
- Am I comfortable with the layover airport and connection time?
If the savings are high and the risk is low (long layover, well-managed hub, flexible schedule), a connecting flight can be a smart choice. If the savings are small or your plans are time-sensitive, a direct flight is usually better.
Tip: For critical trips, some travelers choose a direct flight for the outbound journey (to ensure they arrive on time) and a cheaper connecting flight for the return when timing is less sensitive.
Once you know your priorities for time, comfort, and budget, you can use BookingBe to compare non-stop and connecting options side by side and pick the itinerary that fits your trip best.