One of my favourite travel hacks as a frequent airport princess is making the most of long haul flights by taking advantage of airline stopover programmes.
Instead of simply spending a few hours waiting in an airport, many airlines allow you to stop in their hub city for a day, a weekend, or even up to a week before continuing to your final destination. Even better, many of these programmes are included in your airfare or come with discounted hotels, complimentary accommodation, sightseeing packages, airport transfers and exclusive offers that make exploring another destination incredibly affordable.
It is a great way to experience another culture, enjoy local cuisine, tick off another city from your bucket list and break up a long journey without paying for an additional flight.
What is a Stopover Programme?
A stopover programme allows travellers to extend their connection in an airline’s home city instead of simply transiting through the airport. Depending on the airline, you may be able to stay anywhere from one night to over a week before continuing your journey.
Many airlines have partnered with tourism boards and hotels to encourage visitors to explore their destination, making these programmes one of the best value travel opportunities available.
Airlines Offering Stopover Programmes
Here are some airlines worth considering when planning your next long-haul adventure:
- Icelandair – Reykjavík, Iceland
- TAP Air Portugal – Lisbon and Porto, Portugal
- Turkish Airlines – Istanbul, Türkiye
- Qatar Airways – Doha, Qatar
- Etihad Airways – Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Emirates – Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Japan Airlines – Tokyo, Japan
- Finnair – Helsinki, Finland
- Singapore Airlines – Singapore
- Air China – Beijing, China
- Air Canada – Toronto, Montréal and Vancouver, Canada
- Copa Airlines – Panama City, Panama
- Royal Air Maroc – Casablanca, Morocco
- Ethiopian Airlines – Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Saudia – Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Why I Love Stopover Programmes
As a traveller, I am always looking for ways to get more from every journey. If I am already flying halfway around the world, why not discover another destination along the way?
A stopover transforms a simple connection into an extra adventure. Rather than rushing through another airport terminal, you could be wandering through the streets of Lisbon, exploring the historic markets of Istanbul, relaxing by the waterfront in Doha, admiring the spectacular skyline of Dubai or discovering the unique charm of Helsinki.
Many stopover programmes also include discounted or complimentary hotel stays, attraction passes, guided tours and transport offers, making them an excellent way to stretch your travel budget while adding unforgettable experiences to your itinerary.
Before You Book
Not every fare qualifies for a stopover, so it is always worth checking the airline’s website before booking. Look out for the number of nights permitted, whether there is an additional booking fee, any hotel offers or complimentary accommodation, visa or entry requirements and whether the stopover must be booked in advance.
Spending just a few minutes checking the details could unlock significant savings and help you experience far more than your original destination.
The next time you are planning a long haul trip, do not just think about where you are going, think about where you could stop along the way.
Airline stopover programmes are one of the travel industry’s best kept secrets. They allow you to see more of the world, enjoy an extra destination and often save money compared with booking a separate city break later.
For me, travelling has always been about making every journey count. If I can turn one holiday into two while enjoying discounted hotels, unique experiences and another city to explore, that is an opportunity I never want to miss.
Before you book your next flight, take a look at the airline’s stopover options. You may find that what was once simply a connection becomes one of the highlights of your holiday.
