Do I have to collect my luggage during a stopover?

Usually, yes. Since you are staying for more than 24 hours, airlines typically require you to collect your checked bags at the stopover city.

Can I do a stopover on a basic economy ticket?

Often, no. Basic economy fares are usually non-changeable and restrictive. You generally need to book at least a Standard or Flex economy fare to utilize multi-city stopover options.

How to Book Strategic Stopovers on Flights to Asia

To secure a multi-city stopover, use the 'Multi-city' search tool on airline websites instead of booking one-way tickets. Focus on airlines with major hubs like Singapore (SQ), Tokyo (JL/NH), or Hong Kong (CX) that offer free or low-cost layovers in their base cities.

Choose your carrier strategically. Pick an airline that allows free or low-cost stopovers. Singapore Airlines, Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways, and Cathay Pacific have formal 'Stopover Programs' that provide discounted hotel rates and free transit tours.
Use the 'Multi-city' search function. Do not search for 'one-way' or 'round-trip' flights. Use the 'Multi-city' search tool on the carrier's official website. Input Segment 1 as [Home] to [Stopover City], and Segment 2 as [Stopover City] to [Final Asia Destination].
Verify stopover rules. Check the 'Fare Rules' or 'Stopover Policy' on the airline's website. Some airlines require a minimum 24-hour stay to classify it as a stopover rather than a transit, which keeps the total ticket cost significantly lower than booking two separate flights.
Compare against point-to-point pricing. Check the price of a direct flight to your final destination versus the multi-city route. If the price difference is less than $100, the stopover is almost always worth the value of adding a new city to your itinerary.

Do I have to collect my luggage during a stopover?: Usually, yes. Since you are staying for more than 24 hours, airlines typically require you to collect your checked bags at the stopover city.
Can I do a stopover on a basic economy ticket?: Often, no. Basic economy fares are usually non-changeable and restrictive. You generally need to book at least a Standard or Flex economy fare to utilize multi-city stopover options.