Being stuck in an airport for a long layover is only marginally better than being stuck on a plane for hours on end. At least when you’re on the plane, you’re getting closer to your destination. It doesn’t feel like such a colossal waste of time.
You might not be moving, but airports offer a whole lot more to see and do than airplanes. So if you do have to stay stuck in one place for several hours of your journey, at least you have more options for entertaining yourself.
At a loss for what you can do? Check out these seven ideas!
1. Go for a Walk
Airplane seats are tiny and cramped and you’ll be squished into yours for the duration of your flight. Airports are large and spacious. Why not take advantage of the space and get some exercise before your flight?
Not only is exercise good for you but also it can help work out the kinks from your last flight. You’ll also appreciate a chance to stretch your legs and get the blood flowing again before the next one.
Many airports have interesting sights or artwork to see. Even just walking around and exploring the terminals can be fun.
2. Work Out
You can also take things one step further and actually plan to work out during your long layover. Some airports make this easy by providing a fitness or yoga room. Pack some comfy clothes and get your sweat on while you wait!
Even if the airport doesn’t have a gym, you can always go for a jog around the terminal. Make sure the airport has shower facilities somewhere first. Your seatmates will appreciate it.
3. Add a Destination to Your Trip
For long layovers at airports that are in the thick of things, like Melbourne in Australia, get out and see the sights. I recommend hiring a car service to help you get around. We provide our customers with private taxi services, which are a good choice for chauffeur airport transfers Melbourne.
Just be sure that you’re back at the airport with enough time to go through security and make your next flight. You don’t want your mini-trip to mess up your actual trip.
4. Get Some Work Done
We know what you’re thinking, airport Wi-Fi is often terrible and all the hustle and bustle doesn’t allow you to concentrate anyway. However, the airline’s lounge is often a great place to work.
You get free snacks, more comfortable seating options, and the Wi-Fi is much faster and more reliable.
What if you’re not a member? Not a problem! Most lounges offer a day-pass that is usually worth the dollars if you have a long layover and will be there for a few hours.
5. Read a Book
Books are your friends when traveling, especially riveting ones. Airport shops tend to carry those types of books so feel free to browse through the store. Take your time to pick out a book, the search will help kill some time.
Find a comfortable, quiet corner where you can get lost in the world inside the pages. The airline lounge can also be good for this as there will be less hubbub and more comfortable seating.
Are you the type that tends to get so engrossed in a book that you don’t notice the passing of time? We recommend setting a timer so you don’t miss your next flight.
6. Get Some Shut-Eye
Sleeping in airports is notorious for being even worse than its Wi-Fi. Finding benches without arms so that you can actually lie down is like looking for leprechauns. If you do happen to find one or opt for the floor, airport personnel often come around rousing sleepers from their slumber.
However, some airports have airport hotels that you can rent by the hour. You’ll have a safe and comfortable place to sleep and won’t have to worry about keeping an eye on your belongings. You can even ask the front desk for a wakeup call or to advise you about any changes to your flight.
Little sleep cubicles are also appearing in some airports that you can rent by the hour. Some even have toilets, showers, and TVs for a more posh experience. Reserve your spot ahead of time to ensure that a cubicle is available for you and also to get the best rate.
7. People Watch (or Chat)
There are plenty of interesting people in an airport. They come from all over the world and every single one has their own incredible story.
Sit back and watch the travelers around you. If you’re with a group, you could even get creative and take turns making up backstories for them.
If you see someone else who seems to be sitting around looking for ways to kill time, why not strike up a conversation? Ask them for their favorite travel story and share one of yours.
You’d be amazed at what you can learn about a person in a short conversation. Who knows? You might even make a friend!
Your Long Layover Can Fly By
Time crawls when you’re uncomfortable and bored. That’s typically why people hate long layovers — they are uncomfortable and bored for a very long time. Plus, they’re traveling which can severely stress out some people.
The good news is that with a little creativity you can make yourself a little more comfortable and a little less bored. Try out these tips on your next long layover and change your experience for the better.
Looking for more travel tips? Don’t hesitate to check out more travel articles on our blog!
I find this a very informative list. I did not k ow that some airports have workout rooms.