Is 1 hour enough for connecting flights with the same airline?

Is it worth it to fly with the same airline?

Three AM. Another sleepless night. Is it worth it? The loyalty programs… they’re a siren song, aren’t they?

The allure of status. That’s the hook. My Delta Platinum card…a tiny piece of plastic promising comfort in a chaotic world. But at what cost? Thousands of dollars a year, easily.

It’s a gamble. Sometimes, the upgrades are amazing. First Class on that flight to London last October? Unforgettable. But other times? It’s just a slightly wider seat.

• Free upgrades: They are infrequent, even with high status.
• Lounge access: Nice, but the food’s rarely good.
• Priority boarding: Minimizes stress, I’ll give them that.

This year, I flew United eight times. Was it worth it? I’m still not sure. The points are nice. But the anxiety over missed flights, the endless waiting… that’s real. That’s a heavy price. Maybe I’m chasing an illusion. Maybe I’m just tired.

My friend swears by Southwest’s simplicity. No status nonsense, just cheap fares. Maybe he’s right. Maybe I need to simplify. Damn. Need sleep.

Is it worth paying more to earn miles?

Never blindly buy miles. Always crunch the numbers first. Is the redemption value greater than the purchase cost? Hmm, a fundamental question, isn’t it?

Think of it like this:

• Miles as a discount: If you’re just shy of a dream trip, buying those last few could be cheaper than paying full fare. This hinges on immediate use, really.

• Redemption sweet spots: Business or First Class upgrades might justify buying miles, but compare costs scrupulously. I always double-check against cash prices. It’s just smart.

• Airline credit cards: Seriously, explore these. Earning miles passively through spending is generally superior. I use my Delta Amex for almost everything. Seriously!

Consider a real-world example. A round-trip to Tokyo on points may require buying 5,000 extra miles. Evaluate if the purchase price for these miles, plus the existing points, is less than purchasing a revenue ticket outright. Or even maybe not.

So yes, earning them organically, through spending, offers a more sustainable strategy. Also, check for transfer bonuses from credit card points programs; these can dramatically increase mileage balances. A good habit.

How much layover time is needed for domestic flights?

Okay, so, uh, domestic flights, right? Minimum 45 to 60 minutes for a layover. I always try for longer, honestly.

Like, an hour is cutting it close, especially if you’re like, changing terminals.

Seriously, airports are huge now! My friend Sarah misssed her flight last month.

It was in Dallas and she needed to get between Terminals A and D. And they was far, lol.

• 45-60 min minimum: But, really depends.
• Big Airport, More Time: Duh!
• Terminal Change, More Time: Double duh!
• Consider the airport: DFW or Atlanta? Like, give yourself extra time there.

Think of it this way: I always need at least 15 mins just to find coffee. I need my Starbucks or I am no use to anyone at work! Plus security. Ugh.

What happens to checked bags if you change flights?

Ugh, okay, changing flights with checked bags. Nightmare fuel.

Let me tell you about that one time at Denver International in July 2024. I was flying from Chicago to LAX, connection through Denver. Booked it all on United, same ticket.

So, I checked my beat-up suitcase in Chicago O’Hare, the lady was like, “It’s going all the way to LA.” I was relieved!

But then, a huge delay outta Chicago! Missed my connection! Totally frazzled, I ran to the United counter in Denver.

They rebooked me, but whaaaaat about my suitcase?!

The guy was all “Should be fine, goes to LA automatically.” I asked him to double-check because I had a really important swimsuit in there!

I still had doubts.

Turns out, I should’ve trusted my gut.

Arrived in LA. No suitcase. Seriously?!

Spent like an hour at the baggage claim desk.

Eventually, they tracked it down. It was still in Denver. Ugh!

Important to know:

• Connecting flights on the same ticket: Baggage usually transfers automatically. But always confirm!
• Separate tickets: You must collect your luggage and recheck it.
• Delays/rescheduling: Double-check the luggage destination tag. Stuff happens.
• Baggage claim tag: Vital for tracking lost luggage. Do not lose it!!

The suitcase finally arrived the next day. Ruined my tanning plans. GRRR!

Who do I check in with if my flight is operated by a different airline?

So, your flight’s a Frankenstein’s monster of airlines? Don’t sweat it. Check in with whoever’s actually FLYING the metal bird. Think of it like this: you bought a ticket to a concert, but a different band’s playing. You still go to the venue, right? Same deal.

Seriously, it’s not rocket science. You booked through United but ANA’s doing the piloting? Then it’s ANA all the way, baby! From check-in kiosk to in-flight peanuts, it’s all ANA-flavored.

Key things to remember:

• Operating airline = your airline. Don’t overthink it. It’s like dating – go with the one who’s actually showing up.
• Ignore the booking site. They’re just the matchmakers, not the pilots.
• Check-in process is ENTIRELY with the operating airline. Their app, their website, their grumpy check-in agent. It’s their circus, their monkeys.

My neighbor’s cousin’s dog once booked a flight with Expedia, but ended up on a Southwest flight – got there safely, the dog did. Don’t worry! It’s a smooth process, typically.