44 Flight Booking Myths That Are Actually Wasting You Money

Myth 20: Flights with Long Layovers Always Cost Less

It’s a common belief that flights with longer layovers are always cheaper than direct flights or short connections. While this can sometimes be true, it’s far from a universal rule—and in many cases, long layovers come with hidden costs that can make them more expensive than a direct flight. Airlines don’t always price flights logically from a passenger’s perspective. Sometimes, they discount shorter layovers to encourage travelers to book preferred routes that help balance demand. Other times, long layover flights are actually more expensive because they route through a premium hub airport where landing fees and airline partnerships affect pricing. To get the best deal, travelers should always compare total travel costs, not just the ticket price. A shorter layover or even a direct flight could actually be a better value once you factor in food, lodging, and convenience.