How long do you really need? What can you do with 4 hours at Changi? Is a CDG connection in 75 minutes safe? Find out below.
< 1 hour
Very tight
Do not attempt unless connecting within the same terminal on the same airline. Any delay = missed connection.
1-2 hours
Minimum safe
OK for same terminal, same airline, no checked bags. Still cuts it close at busy airports like LHR or JFK.
2-4 hours
Comfortable
Time to get through immigration, grab food, rest, and board comfortably. Book lounges if you have access.
4-8 hours
Explore time
City visit territory for well-connected airports (SIN, AMS, FRA). Time for a lounge shower and proper meal.
8+ hours
Day layover
Consider transit hotel if overnight. Full city excursion possible at most hubs. Some airlines offer free hotel.
Download offline maps and your next boarding pass before landing.
If layover is 6+ hours overnight, research transit hotels — often cheaper than missing a day of your trip exhausted.
Duty-free shopping is genuinely cheaper at airport for spirits, perfume, and chocolate — but compare prices on your phone first.
Airport food has dramatically improved. Skip the obvious chains and look for local restaurant brands in the terminal.
Never rely on the MCT (Minimum Connection Time). Airlines guarantee the aircraft but not your bags. Add 30+ minutes of buffer to the minimum.
Carry a universal power adapter, lip balm (aircraft air is extremely dry), and a neck pillow for any layover over 2 hours.
Know your airports, budget the trip, and get visa-ready — all free tools on NostosRoute.