Question

Is it okay to leave the airport during a layover​?

Yes, you can leave the airport during a layover in the US. It is always possible for you to leave the airport during a layover if you’re traveling domestically. However, international travelers will require a valid visa or possess visa-free entry to the US if they want to leave the airport during a layover. The rule applies to travelers from the US having international layovers, too.

A layover means a short stop between flights when travelers change aircraft or wait in a connecting airport to board the next flight. You need to have a layover when there are no direct flights to the destination you’re traveling to. For domestic flights, a layover is ideally under four hours. At the same time, international flights have layovers of up to 24 hours based on the airline. If the layover is more than 24 hours, airlines consider it a “stopover.”

Can you leave the airport during a domestic layover?

Yes, you can leave the airport during domestic layovers in the US. For instance, it is legal and safe to leave the airport if you’re a US citizen and have a layover within the country. You’ll probably be getting two boarding passes if the domestic layover is more than an hour. Be sure to download your second boarding pass or have it printed before leaving the airport.

Can you leave the airport during an international layover?

Yes, you can leave the airport during an international layover in the US. However, you must first enter the country by clearing US Customs and Immigration. So, for the next flight, you will have to collect your checked bags, go through customs, and then recheck them. It is crucial to leave enough time to get back through security and immigration to make your connecting flight.

Factors to consider before leaving an airport during a layover

There are certain factors you should thoroughly consider if you want to spend your layover time peacefully!

The length of the layover

Leaving the airport during a layover typically depends on this factor. If your layover time is under six hours, never risk leaving the airport. You may have to clear customs and undergo other formalities at the airport, which is time-consuming. You will have to clear security again if you leave the airport and come back. It is sure to put a lot of pressure on you before boarding the flight!

Managing your luggage

It won’t be a pleasant experience exploring the city carrying your luggage. If you have booked two separate flights, then you’ll have to collect your luggage during the layover at the baggage claim. You need to check in your luggage again for the next flight. Some airlines won’t let you do this early. So, your big task is to find a space inside or near the airport to store it safely.

Ensure that your IDs, money, or other valuables are kept with you when you opt to store your luggage. Managing your baggage won’t be a headache if the flights are booked together, as the airline will handle it until you reach your last destination.

Distance from the airport to the city center or nearby attractions

Usually, most airports are far away from the main cities and major attractions. While visiting the city center or a popular place, make sure to check its distance from the airport. Avoid the trip if it is far from the airport, because if you fail to get back on time, you may miss your flight.

Hiring a taxi or other rideshare service could cost you heavily. Make sure the airport has enough connectivity with the place you plan to visit. Using public transportation services is always a viable option, but keep an eye on the time!

The time of your layover

Don’t ever tend to explore the city or nearby areas if you have a layover at night. So what should you do? Many airports feature sleeping areas that you can use to have a relaxed and safe nap.

Peak hours

If you’re traveling during peak hours, consider the time for traffic, too. You want to avoid getting stuck in traffic and missing your connecting flight.

Can you leave the airport during a 3-hour layover?

No, we don’t recommend it! There won’t be enough time for you to reach back, and you will probably end up missing your connecting flight.

Can you leave the airport during a 10-hour layover?

Yes, you can. However, you must carefully plan and should keep ample time to reach back and board your connecting flight. However, consider factors like the visa requirement, time required for commuting to and from the city, and time required for the security and immigration process upon returning if you’re traveling internationally.

How long of a layover is safe to leave the airport?

Ideally, it is safe to leave the airport if you have a layover of at least 6-8 hours.