How to determine if you should venture outside the airport during a layover

A lengthy layover can be a fantastic opportunity to explore a new city without incurring extra airfare costs. However, leaving the airport involves certain risks and requires thoughtful evaluation of important factors—especially how much time you have. Here’s what to consider if you’re facing the common dilemma: should I step out during my layover?

Is it possible to exit the airport during a layover?

Technically, yes. However, whether you should is a different matter. The decision hinges on three key factors: the duration of your layover; whether your flight is domestic or international; and how much time you’ll need for your off-airport adventure, including travel time both ways.

Is it possible to leave the airport during a layover for a domestic flight?

Yes. However, given that many domestic layovers are only a few hours long and not all U.S. airports are conveniently located near city centers, it may be wise to remain at the airport.

Is it possible to exit the airport during an international layover?

This depends on two key factors: the amount of time you have (at least four to five hours is recommended) and whether your passport permits visa-free entry into the country you’re in.

If you’re planning to leave the airport, ensure you prepare accordingly. Begin by counting backwards from your connecting flight's boarding time (not the departure time, which could be up to an hour later). Include transit time both ways and the duration needed to clear security and immigration.

Whether you have enough time to explore the city is a personal choice. For instance, traveling solo allows for more flexibility than traveling with a family. If you choose to venture out, make sure to allow for extra time in case of unexpected delays (like traffic) so you can still catch your connecting flight.

Is it permissible to exit the airport during a layover?

If you’re traveling domestically within the U.S., stepping outside the airport is permitted. However, before you exit, ensure you have ample time to return, pass through security, and reach your gate for your connecting flight.

The situation gets more complicated for international flights, particularly if the country where you're transiting requires a visa or other essential travel documents. If you plan to leave the airport during an international layover, be sure to verify with your airline (or local embassy) in advance whether a visa is necessary. Regulations can vary significantly based on the country and passport holder.

What are the ideal types of layovers for stepping outside the airport?

Certain layovers are much more favorable for travelers wishing to exit the airport, while others may not be as accommodating. Here’s what to keep in mind.

What defines a standard layover?

Standard layovers typically last around two hours, providing travelers ample time to navigate the airport and catch their connecting flights. For international flights, these layovers are often extended to accommodate longer boarding processes and additional security checks.

What constitutes an extended layover?

An extended layover usually refers to a prolonged stopover, though there is no set duration. It can range from four or five hours to a full day or even longer. Extended layovers are most frequent with international flights and present the best chances to leave the airport.

What is an unexpected layover?

An unexpected layover, often referred to as an unplanned layover, occurs as a result of flight cancellations, delays, rerouting, or other disruptions due to weather, mechanical issues, or other complications. In these cases, the airline is typically responsible (though not always, particularly in weather-related situations) for arranging accommodations and rebooking passengers to their final destinations.

What constitutes an overnight layover?

An overnight layover is straightforward: it occurs during the night. While the idea of spending the night in a new and exciting location may be appealing, there are important factors to keep in mind. One of them is cost. Typically, if a passenger books a flight with an overnight layover, airlines do not cover hotel expenses or other costs—unless the layover is due to an airline issue, such as a delayed flight causing a missed connection.

What is a stopover?

A longer layover, lasting about 24 hours or more, is often referred to as a stopover. Some airlines provide stopover programs to encourage passengers to spend time in a city before heading to their next destination at no extra charge. Refer to this guide for more on the differences between a layover and a stopover.

In general, stopovers are the best option for exiting the airport during a layover—that's their very purpose, after all.

Factors that influence your ability to leave the airport during a layover

The key factor in deciding whether you can exit the airport during a layover is the amount of time available between connecting flights. Additionally, consider other crucial aspects, such as the time required to pass through security again. Here’s what else to bear in mind.

What is the minimum layover duration required to leave the airport?

Generally, you'll need at least four to five hours, and ideally even more, to leave the airport, enjoy a bit of exploration, and return in time to go through security for your connecting flight.

Don’t forget to account for transit time and the duration required to clear security (as well as customs/immigration if you’re flying internationally). If you’re at a large airport (we're looking at you, 130-acre terminal, Hartsfield-Jackson in Atlanta), also factor in how long it will take to reach your gate.

What activities can you engage in when you leave the airport during a layover?

Consider your brief stop as a highlight reel. You won’t have the luxury of exploring a destination in depth. Instead, plan a concise itinerary that includes a few key landmarks or activities that interest you.

After charting the quickest route to the city center, put on your walking shoes for some fast-paced sightseeing. A great way to see numerous sites is by taking a hop-on, hop-off bus tour, available in many major cities. For self-guided adventures, think about reserving spots at popular museums or attractions to bypass long lines. And if you decide to dine out, keep in mind that in many restaurants outside the U.S., especially in Europe, service tends to be slower—and you’ll likely need to ask for the bill.

Do you need to go through security again for a connecting flight?

Yes. The wait times at security are a crucial consideration when deciding whether to exit the airport during a layover. Don’t be misled by what seems like a short line on your way out. Queues can escalate quickly, especially during busy travel periods like Friday afternoons.

This is where trusted traveler programs like CLEAR and TSA PreCheck can be particularly beneficial. However, remember that even with these time-saving options, there are no guarantees for quick security clearance. (If you end up missing your connecting flight, you'll be responsible for rebooking at your own expense—more on that later).

If your connecting flight is international, keep in mind that after clearing security, you must also go through border control, which will take additional time.

What should you do with your luggage if you decide to leave the airport during your layover?

Many airports offer lockers as a convenient option for passengers to store their luggage for a few hours.

Some lockers accept credit cards, but others still require cash (especially in airports that haven't fully embraced digital payment). Keeping a few bills and coins in the local currency can help you avoid delays and hassles.

What happens if you miss your connecting flight?

The consequences of missing your connecting flight largely depend on the reason behind it. If the delay was caused by the airline (for instance, due to a mechanical issue), they are responsible for rebooking you to your final destination.

However, if the missed connection is due to your own actions—perhaps you lingered a bit too long at a local artisan market—you'll be responsible for any rebooking fees. Some airline staff might sympathize with your situation, but don’t count on much leniency (especially with budget airlines).

High risk, but potentially high reward

Leaving the airport during a layover isn't suitable for everyone or every journey. However, it is possible—and it can even become a memorable highlight. Just remember to plan wisely, stay adaptable, and be aware of the potential risks.

For inspiration on how to start planning your next trip (whether you decide to leave the airport or stay put), be sure to explore Dinogo’s resources, including our useful Flight guide.

How this guide came to be

In over two decades of flying, both as a travel journalist and on personal adventures, I’ve only left the airport during a layover once. (On a 40-hour trek from Rome to Australia, I had an eight-hour stop in Bangkok, and I took a cab to visit a nearby market). It turned out to be a fantastic experience—thanks to having ample time, traveling solo, and doing my research ahead of time.