Sometimes, due to long layovers, tourists have to spend hours at airports. But you don't have to suffer from boredom all this time, and you can get the most out of the waiting process. Find out more about the services airports offer to tourists while waiting for flights

In real life, layovers are often unavoidable when traveling, and sometimes they can last for hours. In such cases, you have a choice: stay in the waiting room, spend time in the airport bar, spending money on food and drinks, or take advantage of the opportunity to go outside the airport. In fact, many airlines even support such mini-trips during layovers by offering special stopover programs. It's a great way to diversify your trip and discover new places without leaving the main route.

You can learn more about the secrets of choosing the best seats on the plane for your comfortable flights here.

Possible types of transfers

When planning a trip with transit flights, it is important to understand what type of transfer you will have, as this affects your comfort and the responsibility of the carrier.

The most convenient option is a single-ticket transfer, when all segments of the flight are operated by one airline. In this case, the air carrier is responsible for delivering the passenger to the final point of the route. If the first flight is delayed, the airline is obliged to provide you with a seat on the next available flight. Baggage is also checked in to the final destination, and you don't need to worry about re-checking in or retrieving your luggage at intermediate stops. Some airlines, such as Emirates and Qatar Airways, even provide passengers with hotel accommodation during long layovers exceeding 8 hours.

The second option is codeshare flights. This is a situation when you buy a single ticket from one carrier, but part of the route is operated by a partner airline. Baggage is also checked in until the final point of the route, but in case of problems with luggage or other unforeseen situations, you will have to contact the partner company. In this case, it is worth paying attention to the fact that the ticket may not indicate the name of the additional carrier.

An interline agreement is another option when one airline recognizes the tickets of another. This allows you to purchase a single ticket for all segments of the route at a more favorable price. It is important to know that all carriers are listed on the ticket, and you may need to take additional steps, such as getting a ticket for the next leg of the route when changing airlines.

The most inconvenient option is to use several separate tickets. In this case, you are responsible for your luggage, which must be picked up and checked in at each stage of the route. If you are late for the next flight, you will have to buy a new ticket. To avoid problems, you should plan your transfers with enough time to spare.

As for low-cost airlines, they do not offer connecting flights. If you are traveling with low-cost airlines, you will have to organize your own transfers, and you are responsible for your luggage and timely arrival at your destination.

Do I need a transit visa for flights with transfers?

To avoid unpleasant situations while traveling. Usually, you do not need a transit visa if your next flight departs from the same airport and terminal where you arrived and if you do not need to collect your luggage. In this case, you can simply stay in the transit area of the airport without going through immigration control.

However, in some countries, such as the United Kingdom, there may be difficulties. For example, many travelers buy cheap tickets with a stopover in London, but are later denied boarding because they do not have a transit visa. It's important to know that a transit visa is not required when connecting at Heathrow or Manchester airports, but certain conditions must be met.

A transit visa is issued in the following cases:

1. If you need to change the airport during the transfer;

2. When you need to change the terminal and go into the city;

3. If you have two or more transfers in the Schengen area, a transit visa must be issued at the embassy of the first country;

4. If the transfer takes place in the UK and lasts 24-48 hours, you need to apply for a Visitor in Transit Visa. If the transfer will last more than 48 hours, you will need a regular Transit Visa;

5. If you are flying on different tickets and need to collect your luggage to check in for the next flight.

Some countries, such as the United States, Australia, and Canada, require a transit visa even to stay in the transit zone of the airport.

Don't forget about your luggage: it is usually picked up after passing through immigration control. Make sure your luggage is checked in to your final destination and that you have the right to stay in the country of transit without a visa.

---

Planning a trip or move abroad? An important part of a successful trip is an insurance policy, as it guarantees high-quality medical care anywhere in the world and can protect you from unnecessary expenses while travelling.  You can buy insurance from trusted agents on the Visit World portal. 

---

What to do during long layovers between flights?

If your layover only takes 3-4 hours, you can relax and just wait it out at the airport. However, when the wait is much longer, you should consider options to make this time more enjoyable and useful. If the airport is located close to a city and you have enough time, be sure to take advantage of the opportunity to get out and walk around. Plan your visit in advance, choose interesting places to visit, and calculate how long it will take you to get there and back, adding another half hour for unforeseen delays.

If you can't get out into the city, don't despair - a great alternative is to relax in a lounge area. These areas are usually equipped with comfortable armchairs and sofas where you can relax, read the latest press, or use free Wi-Fi. Some lounges offer sleeping areas with soft lounge chairs if you want to take a nap, as well as food and drinks.

The cost of three hours in a lounge area is usually about €30-40, and the more time you spend in such an area, the more profitable it will be. You can also save some money by purchasing your pass online.

What airport services can tourists use during long layovers?

Long layovers can be exhausting, but modern airports offer many amenities and services that can turn the wait into a pleasant and rewarding experience. Let's take a look at what services travelers can use during long layovers:

1. Rest areas and lounges. For those who want to relax and unwind in a comfortable environment, most major airports offer special lounge areas. They can be available for first and business class passengers, as well as for other travelers for an additional fee. Lounges usually offer comfortable seating, complimentary drinks, snacks, Wi-Fi, and sometimes showers and lounges;

2. Hotels and sleep pods. Many airports offer hotels or sleep pods where you can sleep for a few hours between flights. This is ideal for those who have a few hours before their next flight. Sleep pods are compact but comfortable rooms equipped with everything you need for a short rest;

3. Restaurants and cafes. Airports usually offer a large selection of restaurants, cafes and snack bars where you can have a delicious meal or coffee. Many airports have restaurants with cuisines from different countries, which allows you to try something new and interesting without leaving the terminal;

4. Shops and duty-free. Shopping areas in airports are a great place to shop during a layover. In duty-free shops, you can buy perfumes, cosmetics, alcoholic beverages, sweets, and souvenirs without tax. Many airports also have clothing, accessories, and electronics stores;

5. Entertainment and leisure. Modern airports offer a wide range of entertainment: from movie theaters and game rooms to book and music areas. Some airports even have gyms or spas where you can relax with a massage or visit a sauna;

6. Wi-Fi and work areas. For those who want to stay connected or spend time productively, most airports offer free Wi-Fi access. There are also special work areas equipped with desks, power outlets, and internet where you can work or simply charge your gadgets;

7. Excursions and sightseeing tours. Some airports, especially in tourist cities, offer short excursions or sightseeing tours for passengers with long layovers. This is a great opportunity to see the city and its sights, even if you don't have time for a full-fledged trip;

8. Services for families and children. For travelers with children, many airports offer children's playrooms where kids can have fun. In addition, childcare rooms and family-friendly facilities are available.

A long layover doesn't have to be stressful and boring. By taking advantage of all the services available at the airport, you can make your wait comfortable, interesting, and even rewarding. Remember that the capabilities of each airport may vary, so it's always best to check out the facilities available in advance.

Can I leave the airport during a layover?

When traveling, there are often situations when you have to make a connection between flights. In such cases, there are two main types of layovers: a standard layover, which lasts less than a day, and a stopover, when you leave the airport for a longer period. The latter option is usually accompanied by official stopover programs offered by airlines, such as discounts on hotels and excursions.

If you are planning to leave the airport during a layover, it is important to consider the time. You will need enough time to go through all the necessary security procedures and return to the airport on time before your flight departs. In general, it is recommended to have at least two to three hours for a transfer, and if you are traveling abroad, add time for customs and immigration.

When planning to leave the airport, pay attention to the time it will take to get to and from the city. Always leave yourself some time to spare, because if you miss your flight, you will have to buy a new ticket, which can be quite expensive. If your connection is in the evening or at night, when most places are closed, you may not want to leave the airport.

Many airlines offer stopover programs that allow you to spend one to several days in the city of your connection without incurring additional ticket costs. For example, Qatar Airways has a stopover program in Doha, Qatar, where travelers can stay up to four days and enjoy discounted hotel rates. Copa Airlines also offers a stopover in Panama that lasts from 24 hours to six nights, with the opportunity to visit attractions such as the Panama Canal.

5 original airport entertainment

Wave pool, Munich, Germany

Munich International Airport in Germany invites its passengers to visit the O2 SURFTOWN MUC surf park, which is located near the airport. The 10,000 m2 wave pool is suitable for both beginners and professionals.

“Living” maze, Singapore

At Singapore's Changi International Airport, travelers can enjoy an unusual walk through a maze whose walls are made of living plants. This labyrinth is located under a dome, and in the center is a watchtower. Climbing it, you can see the entire complex structure from a bird's eye view. However, it is important to remember that luggage and bags on wheels are not allowed in the labyrinth. For a comfortable walk, it is recommended to choose closed and comfortable shoes.

Aquarium, Vancouver, Canada

The Vancouver International Airport in Canada offers its visitors a unique opportunity to get acquainted with marine life through a 114,000-liter aquarium. This impressive aquarium is home to more than 20,000 marine plants and animals representing the richness of British Columbia's marine flora and fauna. The colorful rocky kelp forest creates the perfect environment for a variety of marine life, giving visitors a chance to see them in their natural environment.

Tunnel of Rescue, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Under the Sarajevo International Airport in Bosnia and Herzegovina runs the famous Sarajevo Tunnel, also known as the “tunnel of salvation” or “tunnel of hope”. This tunnel was built from March to June 1993 during the siege of Sarajevo at the height of the Bosnian War. It served as a critical link between the cut-off city of Sarajevo and the UN-controlled area near the airport. The tunnel was used to transport weapons, supplies, and other vital resources needed to support the besieged areas.

Aviator's wheel, Zurich

Zurich Airport in Switzerland offers an exciting experience for aviation enthusiasts over the age of 12. Thanks to the Super Constellation Simulator, anyone can feel like a pilot of a Boeing B777, a Bell-407 helicopter or the original Pilatus PC-7. This simulator allows you to make a virtual flight, including landing in Hong Kong, landing on a glacier in the mountains by helicopter, or feeling like a pilot of the Swiss Air Force. All virtual flights are guided by experienced instructors, which makes the experience even more realistic and exciting.

We remind you! Passengers who have spent extra money to purchase a seat in business class expect to fly in comfort. However, there is still a risk of being relegated to a regular seat in economy class. Read more about the possible reasons for an airplane downgrade.

---

To move, travel or work safely in a new country, you will need travel insurance. You can apply for an extended policy on our website here.

---

Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Travel guide for 200 countries;

Legal advice from a local specialist on visa and migration issues;

Travel insurance around the world (please select the country of interest and citizenship to receive services);

Medical insurance all over the world.

---