How Long Should a Layover Be? A Smart Traveler’s Guide

Layovers get a bad reputation, but when they’re planned correctly, they can make or break your travel experience. Too short, and you’re sprinting through the airport. Too long, and you’re stuck watching the clock (and your snack budget disappear).

So what’s the right amount of time? The answer depends on whether you’re flying domestic or international as well as a few details most travelers don’t realize matter.

Why Layover Length Matters More Than You Think

Airlines will happily sell you a connection that looks legal on paper but leaves zero margin for reality. Delays, long taxi times, crowded terminals, immigration lines, and gate changes all add up.

When review flight plans for clients, I’m not just looking at what works, but I'm looking at what works comfortably

Ideal Layover Length for Domestic Flights

For flights within the U.S., here’s what I typically recommend:

• Minimum comfortable layover: 60–75 minutes

• Preferred layover: 90 minutes or more

  
  

While airlines may sell 35–45 minute connections, those leave very little room for delays or gate changes especially at large hubs like Chicago, Atlanta, Dallas, or Denver.

If your connection involves:

• Changing terminals

• A last flight of the day

• Winter weather

• Traveling with kids
  

Longer is always better.

Ideal Layover Length for International Flights

International connections need more breathing room...especially when customs or immigration is involved.

International → U.S. connectionsYou’ll need time for immigration, baggage claim, customs, re-checking luggage, and security again. Even with Global Entry, lines can be unpredictable. For this reason, a minimum comfortable layover is 2.5–3 hours.

U.S. → International connectionsIf you’re continuing directly to your final destination in another country, you’re often staying within the same international terminal, making a 2-hour layover generally sufficient.

However, if you’re connecting onward within the same country or entering the Schengen Zone, passport control will be part of the process, even if you’re just passing through. In these cases, a 3-hour layover is ideal to avoid unnecessary stress.

The Advisor Advantage

If you want flights that are efficient and realistic, without unnecessary stress, I’d love to help. Properly planned connections are one of the easiest ways to start your vacation on the right foot.

Let’s make sure your travel days are as smooth as possible.

Email me today to get planning your next adventure.