Nothing ruins a long-haul trip like a lengthy layover stuck in an airport terminal. If you find yourself with 5 or more hours to burn between flights, it’s easy to grow bored or uncomfortable waiting endlessly in crowded areas. However, with a little advance planning, long layovers don’t have to mean agony. This article will share with you some tips for using the time to be productive, stay entertained, and even get a bit of relaxation. With some creativity, you can maximize this in-between time to pamper yourself and have some fun before jetting off to your next destination.
Mitigate Boredom in the Early Hours
If stuck in the airport for 6+ hours, boredom can set in quickly as you exhaustedly stare at departure screens. To help pass the time in the first one or two hours, consider connecting with friendly strangers or loved ones back home.
You can strike up a conversation with people to trade travel stories and make new temporary friends. If you’re feeling chatty but want some anonymity, log in to online video chat apps that instantly pair you with fellow users for a chat. As long as you avoid sharing personal details, you can chat anonymously with intriguing strangers to exchange travel experiences.
Calling or texting friends and family is another way to stay social and avoid boredom. Share selfies capturing your airport adventures. Check social media and post updates for your networks back home. The distance might inspire meaningful catching up.
Explore the Airport
Rather than staying seated at your gate, get your blood flowing with a leisurely stroll around your airport terminal. Bring your bag with you as you amble from concourse to concourse.
Wandering can help reduce the stress and confusion of a long wait. Look for art, gardens, small museums, or interesting shops and restaurants as you stroll. No need to overthink your route; simply follow the signs pointing you down each terminal.
Browse at your own relaxed pace and discover new areas of the large facility. You’ll be surprised by what you can find with a little exploration. Many airports have beautiful architecture, local art displays, rooftop gardens, small museum exhibits, or culture-specific restaurants worth checking out.
Try an Airport Hotel/Lounge
For layovers of 8 hours or more, seriously consider getting a room at an airport hotel. A comfortable space to stretch out and take a nap can greatly improve an extended layover experience. Some airports have reasonably priced hotel options that are a quick shuttle or walk from your terminal.
In addition to hotels, many airports have lounges where you can relax for a fee. Airline lounges may let you in if you have elite status or purchase day access. Other independent lounges in the terminal offer nap pods, workstations, free WiFi, and light snacks to help you feel refreshed.
Doing some research beforehand, you may even be able to access a lounge for free. Many credit cards offer airport lounge passes that are eligible to all cardholders. You can also check out travel Companion apps to research lounges that accept partners or one-time day passes available for purchase.
Conclusion
Long layovers don’t need to be a dreaded wait. This article gave ideas to help time fly, like chatting online or wandering the airport. You can also work, rest, or stay healthy. Or leave the airport for a nap. However, you pass the time, remember — long waits happen to all travelers. So keep a good attitude and make the best of your layover hours.
