Compare the full cost, not the screen price: baggage, seat, meals and time. Go direct with children and on short trips; connect only with enough time (2 hours on one ticket, 3–4 hours on separate tickets). Book early in peak seasons and check your name letter by letter against your passport.
1. Direct or connecting?
Go direct when
- Travelling with children or elderly relatives.
- The trip is short or medium haul.
- You have an important appointment on arrival.
- The price gap is small compared to time saved.
A connection is worth it when
- It genuinely saves a lot after counting time.
- You can stop over in a second city.
- There is no direct route.
- The layover is comfortable at an airport you know.
If you book two separate flights and the first is late, the second airline needn't rebook you, and you may need a visa for the transit country to collect your bag. Use one ticket whenever possible.
2. Understand baggage before paying
Size and weight limits vary; low-cost carriers may allow only an under-seat bag.
Included or paid separately — read the fare's baggage allowance.
'Light' or 'basic' fares may exclude bags, seats and changes.
Strollers, wheelchairs, sports gear — tell the airline in advance.
3. Which seat?
| Seat | Good for | Watch out |
|---|---|---|
| Window | Sleep, views, kids | Hard to get out |
| Aisle | Long flights, moving around | People passing |
| Front rows | Quick exit, short connections | Often extra cost |
| Exit row | More legroom | No children; may not recline |
| Bassinet seats | Families with infants | Request early, limited |
4. First-time flying tips
- Check your name
It must match your passport exactly.
- Check in online
Usually opens 24–48 hours before.
- Arrive early
3 hours international, 2 domestic.
- Security
Take out large electronics and liquids if asked.
- The gate
Usually closes 20–30 minutes before departure.
- On board
Drink water and move every couple of hours on long flights.
5. When to book
Book as early as possible — cheap seats go first.
Matches and fairs push up demand for those dates. Book once confirmed.
A day or two either way can make a big difference.
Istanbul has two airports (IST and SAW) — compare including the transfer.
We book the right flight — not just the cheapest on screen
Alwan's flight team compares full costs, picks family-friendly timings and follows up on any schedule change.
Ask for the best flight optionsKeep reading: How to choose a hotel · Istanbul airport to the city
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to book a flight?
For international peak-season trips, book as early as possible. Off-season, a few weeks ahead is usually fine. Last-minute is rarely cheapest in peak periods.
How long should a layover be?
On one ticket with one airline, 1.5–2 hours is usually enough at big airports. With separate tickets or a bag re-check, allow at least 3–4 hours.
Is a direct flight always better?
Not always, but it removes the risk of missed connections and lost bags and is easier with children.
What is the best seat on a plane?
Window for sleep and views, aisle for moving around on long flights, front rows for a quick exit. Families with infants ask for bassinet seats.
