Flights secrets: never book a stopover flight

Flight stopovers are often part of any long-haul journey, with not many airlines able to offer non-stop flights. Yet as technology advances, longer journeys can be made with the longest

currently 17.5 hours between Auckland and Doha. However, many flights are not direct, and many cheaper options require at least one stopover. One expert reveals why you should never choose a

stopover flight. Brent Bowen, who publishes the annual the Airline Quality Rating (AQR) revealed why a passenger should never choose a stopover flight to USA Today. “Always fly nonstop,” he

advised, as it reduces the chances of losing luggage. If he has to fly with a break in-between, then he at least always “buys a better seat” and never checks in a bag. He admits that no

airline is better than one, and it all depends on the person. However choosing a long-haul flight is made easier with extra amenities such as legroom and large hand luggage allowances. Gemma

Bowles, HolidayPirates Editor, told Express.co.uk: “Due to the logistical process involved in moving luggage from one flight to another, there is an increased likelihood that the airline

will lose your bag with a stopover. “It could be worth looking into non-stop flights if available, as it could relieve you from unnecessary stress over losing your hold luggage.” Bowles

revealed that it is worth taking out travel insurance as well as carry spare clothes just in case. Last year, a whopping 22.7 million bags were reported missing or damaged. However, the

downside of a nonstop flight means being stuck on a plane without being able to take a break. Some airlines offer additional days in the country for free when stopping over. Emirates

travellers can spend 96 hours in Dubai, Icelandair offers seven days in Reykjavik while TAP Portugal offers 72 hours in Porto or Lisbon. Lost luggage is often protected under the 2003

Montreal Convention, depending on the flight destination. There are more than 100 countries included in this which includes the UK, US and EU. This means that compensation can be claimed for

lost luggage in between flights. However, airlines rarely pay more than £1,000 in compensation for lost items. It is worth taking out comprehensive travel insurance for additional

protection for missing suitcases.