How to get a free trip internationally

Sounds crazy I know, but I am doing it so I want to share.

When most people plan for a trip, they're only focused on point A and point B. And I like most travelers, love a good nonstop flight. I want to get in my seat and when I get up, I am in my final destination. Any extra stops in between are a hassle and take time away from my trip. However, this is Bree Leaves and I like internationally traveling. So when I learned about the Stopover Secret- I had to put it to use. FREE and International, was all I needed

What's the difference between a stop over and a layover- TIME spent between flights.

Layovers are short, stopovers are extended layovers. A stopover is just a layover that is at a connecting hub for more than 12 hours (the definition changes depending on the airline). This lets you get out of the airport and into the city. For long flights their is a high likelihood that the airline has to stop at a hub to refuel and prepare for the next leg. You’re there anyway, why not extend your layover and spend a day or two in town? It’s not expensive, either. Usually you can get a stopover for no cost, and a FREE hotel (3 stars and above)

Many airlines offer free stopovers, especially if it’s at a hub in their home country. This works great with regional international airlines- Icelandair, Turkish, Qatar, Ethiopian, etc. Turkish, for example, is famous for offering free stopovers in Istanbul. It makes tourism in unexpected or out-of-the-way destinations accessible to travelers who might never go there as a solo destination. Emirates, which lets you stopover in Dubai, Japan Airlines in Osaka or Tokyo, Finn Air in Helsinki, Thai Airlines in Bangkok, etc. If the airline is named after a country, they MAY have a stopover option.

You can book stopovers directly with the airlines, or via your travel agency.

It’s not possible to book stopovers directly on most do-it-yourself online booking tools. And even if you’ve already booked your flight, you can change your itinerary for a small fee. However, some international airlines have stopovers built into ticket prices. If you see one- this is a guaranteed option.

If you are interested in StopOver flights consider these tips

-Consider Your Budget

While you may not have to pay for a hotel. Transportation, meals – all of the things you’ve already factored into your primary destination, are things to consider.

-Timing Is Everything

If you’re only looking at a brief overnight layover, don’t try to cram a ton into a compressed amount of time. Consider choosing a top site, museum, or even just a walking tour of the city’s historic center to get the feel for the place. You’re not going to see and do everything in 12 hours. Be real with yourself and your ability to maneuver.

- Don’t Forget About Transportation

Once you commit to leaving the airport and exploring your layover city, you need to account for how you’re going to get there. Most places have public transportation and Uber so consider the costs and timing to make sure you get back to the airport for your final flight.

-Make A Plan For Your Luggage

Typically, airlines don’t check bags through on an overnight layover, which means you will need to grab them from the claims area when you arrive. But don't worry you don't have to carry your bags all around town.

First, consider packing a light overnight bag and leaving your heavy cases at the airport. Many larger airports offer a luggage storing services and many train stations also provide this type of storage service.

If you have a free hotel, that's self explanatory.

If you have decided you want to consider a stopover, CHECK WITH YOUR AIRLINE FOR REQUIREMENTS. Get out and explore- I like free and if I can say I got to see a country even if its just for a day- I will make the best of it. So should you.