As a food and travel writer, you might think that I'm totally chill about all sorts of airport related stresses. The reality is quite the opposite, I am totally filled with anxiety and despite having Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, and Clear, will always be at the airport two hours before even a simple domestic flight. Even though I don't even ever check a bag.
So, of course, when dealing with flight connections, it's easy for me to err on the side of caution and give myself too much time between flights as a way of feeling less stressed about making that next flight. And, trust me, that has happened. Recently, even. But there really is some logical flight math you can do to figure out just how much time you need on a layover to make that connection – and once you get a handle on that, choosing the right flight itinerary for you becomes a whole lot easier.
You'll always want to download the apps of all the airlines you are dealing with, as well as if the airport you are passing through if they have one, and take note of your various gates and terminals – it saves a ton of time to know your path and how long you'll need before you even get off the plane. If you will have a tight connection, always let the flight attendant know, and have your comfortable walking shoes on – your flirty pumps are great for brunch once you arrive, but not for sprinting across a terminal trying to make a connection!
AdvertisementAdvertisement#«Rke4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R14e4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframeFlight delays will happen, and these cannot be predicted – and will, of course, through a wrench into even the most carefully navigated plans. But if you come prepared, and have your path set, you are best prepared for whatever the flight gods may throw your way.
Picking your seat. Obviously, people at the front of the plane are going to deplane first (more on that in a minute). Something to keep in mind if you are going to have a short connection.
Deplaning. No matter when your flight lands, you're going to have to go through the process of getting off one flight and getting to and on your next flight. If you are sitting near the back of the plane, that's simply going to take a lot longer than if you are at the first. Add extra time if you gate check your bag and need to wait on that.
Customs: Are you entering a country on one flight and then connecting to another international or domestic flight? You'll have to clear customs and immigration and, in many cases, claim and recheck luggage again, and go through security once again. Allow for this time.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#«Rpe4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R19e4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframeIs the airport a maze? Not all airports are the same size or complexity, of course. While I can run from one end of the terminal to the other, in say, Nashville, in a few minutes, that's not going to be the case at JFK. You'll simply need less time in smaller, easier, and less complicated airports. Always seek out a map of where you have to go on your airport or airline app, it'll help guide your way, regardless how complicated that way may be.
Transferring: It's fair to say you will be changing terminals, especially if you are changing airlines. You may even be transferring from one airport to another. You must consider all the time this will take, too.
Have a plan B: Hopefully you'll make your connection and be well on your way with no complications or conflicts. But it's always a good idea to know about backup options just in case they become necessary.
A good rule of thumb is generally a layover of 45 minutes is good for a domestic flight if you aren't switching airlines and do not have to switch terminals or airports. On international flights, you're going to want at least double that. If you are changing airports, well, good luck with that and go in peace - you'll also want to figure in all of the above as well as how long it'll take you to get a rideshare to the other airport and go through the whole security procedure there…for someone like me? That'd mean at least three hours. And I'd still be a nervous wreck.
Yahoo CreatorAly WalanskyAly Walansky is a NYC-based food & travel writer. She has been rated top food journalist online by Muck Rack and pens a Substack newsletter that goes out to 10,000 industry pros daily.FollowFollow
