On long routes a flight with one stop is often much cheaper than nonstop, but adds hours and a missed-connection risk. On short routes the nonstop is usually worth a small premium. Compare both before you book.
The cheapest ticket is not always the best trip. A stop adds travel time, can add a second airline and a second chance for delays.
When a stop is worth it
- Long-haul trips (Asia, Americas): the price gap can be large and the extra hours may be acceptable.
- Small airports: a nonstop may not exist at all.
- Flexible schedule: you can use a long connection to see a city.
When nonstop is worth it
- Short flights in Europe: the premium is often small and a stop can double the travel time.
- Tight plans: a business meeting, a cruise, a wedding.
- Hand luggage only: fewer transfers mean less can go wrong.
How to check
Search the same dates with "any number of stops" and with nonstop only. Our route pages show the cheapest price per week and whether a nonstop was available, for example Düsseldorf to Barcelona.
Tip: Compare the total travel time, not only the price per hour saved.
Questions
Is a stop always cheaper? Not always. On busy short routes nonstop can be as cheap.
Is a stop risky? On one ticket the airline must rebook you if you miss a connection. On separate tickets it does not, see separate tickets.