Originally Posted by offerendum

Very well summarized, that's exactly how it is. I was already 4 hours late on one route, so I missed the next flight. I often have connections to London, which can be potentially dangerous. If I absolutely had to be at my final destination on one day, I would take a direct flight a day earlier. Otherwise, it always reassures me when there are more flights the same or at least next day. If necessary, I'll arrive a little later, but it still works. On the return flight I usually don't care; if necessary, I'll just spend a night in the connecting destination. Everything can be done, usually no problem.
It is important to always be on one ticket, then in the event of delays the airline has to arrange a new flight and, if in doubt, even a hotel. If you book 2 separate tickets, you are taking the risk. I also make a distinction regarding connection-airport. Being stranded ion another continent is a logistical problem. If necessary, I can take the train, a rental or even a taxi from most European airports to Germany (OK, it will be expensive).