The Stopover Travel Trend Turns Layovers Into Vacations-and These Are the 15 Essentials You Need to Do It Well

""Stopovers allow people to turn what used to feel like 'dead time' into a destination in its own right," says Whitney Haldeman, founder of the luxury group travel company, Atlas Adventures. "Done well, a stopover can end up being the unexpected highlight of the entire trip." Sometimes, booking an extended layover can even save you money. "I often recommend booking a round-trip transatlantic flight into London," she says."

""It's often surprisingly economical and from there, you can layer in affordable short-haul flights across Europe, enjoy time in London itself, and dramatically reduce long, tiring connections-all while turning the journey into part of the experience rather than something to endure." While stopovers offer extra destinations and value, my own experience has taught me that travel essentials, such as the right gear, tech, and versatile, comfortable outfits, help make the most of these mini adventures."

Stopover travel surged in 2026 as more airlines and countries promote extended layovers that let travelers explore without booking extra flights. Some carriers provide incentives such as complimentary hotel nights, with Etihad offering free stays while Emirates and Icelandair expand stopover options. Stopovers can convert transit time into meaningful experiences and sometimes reduce overall costs. Strategic routing—like round-trip transatlantic flights into London paired with short-haul hops—can lower fares and shorten connections. Practical travel essentials, including organized tech pouches, versatile outfits, and reliable gear, help make short stays and transfers smoother. A 15-item packing list supports efficient stopover journeys.

Read at Travel + Leisure