Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) is one of the busiest in the world, connecting to over 200 destinations globally and serving as a major international aviation hub in Asia. The airport has been named the world’s best multiple times, so many international airlines operate here, and its extensive network means travelers enjoy more flight options.
For travelers in the U.S., Hong Kong layovers often mean great deals on airfare. In this guide, the Trip.com team shares everything you need to know about transferring through Hong Kong.
What Are the Procedures for a Hong Kong Transfer?
Transiting through Hong Kong isn’t hard—the process mainly differs depending on whether you have the boarding pass for your next flight:
- With a boarding pass for your next flight: Arrive at Hong Kong International Airport → follow the signs to the transfer area → clear the security screening → head to your next flight’s gate
- If you don’t have your boarding pass for the next flight: Arrive at Hong Kong International Airport → Follow the signs to the transfer counter to collect your boarding pass → Go through security screening → Head to the boarding gate for your next flight
How Much Connection Time to Allow for Hong Kong Layovers?
How much time should you set aside for a layover in Hong Kong? Here are some suggested connection times for different scenarios.
- Codeshare flights with through-checked baggage: at least 1 hour
- Non-connecting flights: at least 2 hours
- If you need to enter the country and then exit again for a self-transfer: at least 4 hours.
Can You Catch Special Events during Your Layover in Hong Kong?
From now through March 31, 2026, travelers flying Hong Kong Airlines to and from Vancouver, Sydney, or Melbourne, and connecting via Hong Kong International Airport, can enjoy special lounge services at Club Autus. Simply present your arrival and departure boarding passes to the Club Autus staff to effortlessly take advantage of this offer.
Simply follow the steps below:
- Book Hong Kong Airlines round-trip connecting flights to Vancouver, Sydney, or Melbourne.
- Hold arrival and departure boarding passes issued by Hong Kong Airlines.
- Present two boarding passes at "Club Autus" at Hong Kong International Airport at the same time.
- Enjoy the exclusive lounge services brought to you by Hong Kong Airlines.
How to Enter Hong Kong during a Layover?
Obtain a Hong Kong Visa
If you have a layover in Hong Kong, you can leave the airport and explore the city. U.S. travelers, however, will need to obtain a Hong Kong visa in advance. The visa application is free and can be completed online through the Hong Kong Immigration Department’s website.
Be sure to carefully check your layover duration so you have enough time to enter the city and return to the airport without missing your connecting flight.
How to Rest and Recharge during Your Hong Kong Layover?
Hong Kong International Airport is a modern international hub, and even during a layover you’ll find places to rest and recharge. There are over 6,700 charging points throughout the airport, and many seats offer phone charging. If you want to use WiFi, the airport also offers free WiFi—just look for "#HKAirport Free WiFi" or "#HKAirport Hi-Speed WiFi" to connect.
Plus, if you want to unwind in an airport lounge, Hong Kong Airport has them too. Don’t have lounge access? Trip.com offers lounge access you can purchase!
What If You Forgot to Check Your Bags Through for a Layover Flight in Hong Kong?
If you forgot to check your bags through, no worries—Hong Kong Airport has baggage storage so you can shop and explore hands-free! The baggage storage service is located on Level 5 of the Arrivals area in Terminal 1 (non-restricted area), and costs US $1.80 per hour or US $21.20 per day. Feel free to make the most of it if you need it!
Store you baggage during your layover in Hong Kong to explore hands-free
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8% OFF Best Hotel Options for a Layover in Hong Kong
If your flight is the next day and you’re looking for a place to stay near Hong Kong Airport, our editor recommends these three layover hotels in Hong Kong. From all three, you can walk to Hong Kong Airport or hop on a free shuttle.
Hong Kong Layover Accommodation #1: Regal Airport Hotel Hong Kong
Hong Kong Layover Stay #2 Regala SkyCity Hotel
Hong Kong Layover Accommodation #3 Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel
What to Do in Hong Kong for One Day?
Grab a day-tour in Hong Kong
If you have extra time and want to enjoy a one-day trip in Hong Kong, check out the itinerary below or book a Hong Kong day tour to make the most of your layover in Hong Kong!
Time | Itinerary |
Morning | |
Afternoon | Central’s Hong Kong Observation Wheel → Ride the Peak Tram up to Victoria Peak → Enjoy the sunset and night views at Victoria Peak |
Evening | Hop on a cruise at Central Pier to explore Victoria Harbour |
FAQs about Hong Kong Airport Transfer
How can I transfer from Hong Kong Airport to the city?
You can use the Airport Express train, airport buses, taxis, ride-hailing services, or pre-booked private transfers.Can I leave the airport during a layover in Hong Kong?
Yes, travelers with a layover can enter the city if they have the proper visa or pre-arrival approval. Make sure your layover is long enough to return for your connecting flight.What are the fastest options for Hong Kong airport transfer?
The Airport Express train is the quickest (about 24 minutes to Central), while taxis take 30–40 minutes depending on traffic.How much does a Hong Kong airport transfer usually cost?
Airport Express: ~US $13–15 one-way; taxis: ~US $40–50; private transfers: ~US $50–100.Should I book a private or shared transfer for a short layover?
Private transfers are faster and more convenient for limited time, while shared transfers are cheaper but may take longer due to multiple stops.