Connecting flights

It is likely that you will have at least one layover during your travels to and from tour. While you are connecting in a foreign airport, you will likely be required to go through a secondary security checkpoint. Typically, however, you will only go through customs or immigration at your final destination.

For example, if you are traveling from the U.S. to Tokyo with a short layover in Seoul, you will probably only go through customs and immigration when you arrive in Tokyo. At your connecting airport, you will likely have to go through transit security to screen any carry-on items you have and scan your passport again. In most cases, you will not need to pick up or recheck your luggage. 

Navigating the Schengen Zone

The Schengen Area is a collection of European countries that allow free-movement between borders. If you are transiting through the Schengen Area, you will pass through customs and immigration at your first point of entry into this region. You likely will not have to pick up your checked luggage, but some ports may require this. Just make sure to budget your time efficiently when navigating from one leg to the next. 

Note these are general expectations to have while traveling internationally and many airports may differ from these guidelines. When you arrive at the airport, check with an airline representative to understand the nuances of you particular itinerary.