Booking Flights to Ireland? Why I Recommend Avoiding European Layovers

When comparing flights to Ireland, it's tempting to focus on the lowest fare or shortest total travel time. But there's another detail worth considering: whether your connection happens before or after your overnight transatlantic flight. 🎧This is an audio-only episode of the Traveling in Ireland podcast. 🔗 Full article & links: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/bo... Resources mentioned in the podcast: • https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/TRIP • https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/FAQ I generally recommend connecting in the North America and flying directly to Ireland from there, rather than flying overnight to London, Amsterdam, or Paris and making another connection. In this episode, I explain why that choice can make your journey easier and help you enjoy more of your first day in Ireland. What you'll learn: • Why I prefer North American connections when flying to Ireland • What travelers should know about connecting through London Heathrow • How a European layover can affect your first day in Ireland • What happened when a canceled flight nearly sent my young daughters and me through Paris • When a European connection might actually be worth considering The cheapest flight isn't always the best flight. Think about how you'll feel when you arrive, not just how much you'll spend getting there. // FREE RESOURCES 📧 Weekly Ireland travel advice by email: https://ifv.kit.com/51952569c5 📋 Step-by-Step Guide to Planning Your Ireland Vacation: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/pl... //THE IRELAND TRAVEL COMPASS 🧭 For DIY planners who want expert guidance, this step-by-step planning tool helps you build a realistic Ireland itinerary, choose the right lodging and transportation, and plan with confidence. https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/co... // RECOMMENDED SERVICES AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE: Links included in this description may be affiliate links. We participate in the Amazon affiliate program and several other affiliate partnerships. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide we may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you. Thank you for your support. ○ Save 10% on car rental in Ireland at Irish Car Rentals: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/Ir... ○ Stay Connected with WiFiCandy - eSIM and mobile hotspot across Ireland & Europe. Save 10% with code IFV10 https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wifi ○ Find accommodations throughout Ireland: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/stay //MORE IRELAND INSPO Website: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com Facebook:   / irelandfamilyvacations   Instagram:   / irelandfamilyvacations   //ABOUT Jody Halsted: Your No-Nonsense Guide to Ireland With 20+ years of Irish travel under her belt and a microphone usually nearby, Jody is the go-to expert for anyone craving a confident, customized, and slightly cheeky Irish adventure. She blends practical travel wisdom with a sharp sense of humor, turning trip planning into a personal mission — whether you need an itinerary tune-up or a full-blown Ireland travel strategy. She's not afraid to call out bad advice (especially from AI) and she's always ready to help you explore Ireland with clarity, insight, and zero fluff.