When you hear "long layover," it’s just not ideal… but what if that layover could become a vacation within a vacation? Enter the world of stopovers—a strategy that can transform your trip into an extended adventure, sometimes with the airline covering part of your stay. Here’s everything you need to know to turn layovers into stopovers.
What Are Stopovers?
Most people are familiar with layovers, a brief pause at a connecting airport for less than 23 hours. A stopover, however, takes this idea further by extending the layover to over 24 hours, giving you the chance to explore a new city on the way to your final destination. Far from being an inconvenience, stopovers offer a golden opportunity for sightseeing, relaxation, or even an extra vacation—sometimes at no extra cost.
How Stopovers Save You Money
Booking stopovers can actually make travel cheaper. For example, flying from Prague to Washington, D.C., with a planned stopover in Frankfurt can cost significantly less than booking two separate flights. In one case, the combined cost of separate flights reached $1,689, while the itinerary with a built-in stopover totaled just $947—a savings of $742 per person. Multiply that by two, and that’s almost $1,500 saved for couples traveling together. Plus, this method is not just for points and miles pros; many airlines offer similar benefits on cash bookings.
Best Stopover Programs for Award Flights
Some of the most rewarding stopover options are found through loyalty programs. Here are three top choices:
Aeroplan (Air Canada): Only 5,000 extra points are required to add a stopover of up to 45 days. This flexibility extends across nearly 50 partner airlines, making it a versatile option for international travelers.
Flying Blue (Air France-KLM): Adding a stopover to a Flying Blue award booking is free, though it does involve more steps as both award tickets need to be booked separately before calling the airline to combine them.
British Airways Avios: London stopovers are a popular choice, thanks to the airline’s extensive route network. However, keep in mind that UK flights often come with higher taxes and fees.
Booking Stopovers with Cash
Several airlines offer generous stopover policies for cash bookings:
Turkish Airlines: As the largest airline in the world, Turkish Airlines allows stopovers in Istanbul with the bonus of free hotel stays—one night for economy class and two nights for business class travelers.
Icelandair: A seven-day stopover in Iceland is available on roundtrip tickets to Europe at no additional cost. Perfect for those who want to explore the famed Ring Road or relax in Reykjavík.
TAP Air Portugal: Enjoy a stopover in Lisbon or Porto for up to five days on eligible flights.
Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways: Both offer stopover programs in Doha and the UAE, respectively, with potential discounts on hotels. Etihad even provides up to two free nights in select hotels.
Important Details to Keep in Mind
While stopovers can lead to big savings and memorable experiences, they come with a few caveats. Taxes and fees might increase, especially in locations like the UK that impose departure taxes. Plus, make sure to compare the cost of your itinerary with and without a stopover to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Sometimes, booking separate tickets may be more economical.
Also, long layovers of under 24 hours can still be worthwhile. Many airports offer layover tours that whisk passengers into the city and back to the airport in time for their next flight. Companies like Viator even arrange personalized itineraries for layovers, complete with airport pick-up and drop-off.
Final Thoughts
Stopovers are a powerful tool for savvy travelers looking to maximize their journeys. Whether it’s a two-day exploration of Frankfurt, a few nights in Iceland, or a scenic stop in Doha, this travel hack can be both cost-effective and rewarding. Before booking, research specific airline policies, potential taxes, and your itinerary options to create the ultimate travel experience.
%20Free%20Using%20Flying%20Blue%20Promos.png)