Layovers are generally used for one or more of the following reasons: recover from delays, provide breaks for the driver, and/or allow time for a driver change. Delays may be caused by earlier traffic congestion or excess boarding times.
Is it a good idea to leave the airport during a layover?
If your layover is short, it's generally not recommended to leave the airport. Leaving the airport during a short layover can be risky, as you may not have enough time to return to the airport before your next flight. This could result in missing your connecting flight and potentially having to purchase a new ticket.
What are the benefits of a layover?
How do you take advantage of a layover?
Book yourself into a transfer hotelMany large airports have transfer hotels that are made for weary travelers with long layovers. Some transfer hotels are located inside security, negating the need to allow for extra time. Others are located land-side requiring you to go through security an extra time.
What airports to avoid for layovers?
The 15 worst airports for layovers in America
| Rank | Airport | # of restaurants or shops per gate |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) | 1.18 |
| 2 | Orlando International Airport (MCO) | 1.54 |
| 3 | LaGuardia Airport (LGA) | 1.14 |
| 4 | Charlotte/Douglas International Airport (CLT) | 0.65 |