What to do During Long Layovers: The Definitive Guide

If you’re like most people, the thought of long layovers fills you with dread.

What are you supposed to do for hours on end in an airport? Relax? Try to sleep? What about all of the security lines and noise? It can be overwhelming. But don’t worry – we’re here to help! This blog post will give you a comprehensive guide on what to do during long layovers.

We’ll cover everything from sleeping and eating to entertainment and sightseeing. So read on, and make the most of your next long layover!

 

Find great hotel rates in transit hotels at Booking.com!

 

 

What to do During Long Layovers: The Definitive Guide

At times, it’s impossible to avoid long layovers at airports, and inside is a list of What to do during long layovers.

 

Relax – There’s no need to stress what you don’t control

It can be tough to relax in an airport, but there are a few things you can do to make it easier. First, find a comfortable spot to sit or lie down. If you’re lucky, you may be able to find an empty row of chairs or a secluded corner.

If not, don’t hesitate to ask a flight attendant if there are any open seats once you’ve found a place to relax, close your eyes and take some deep breaths. 

 

 

A smartphone is your friend during a long layover.

Your smartphone can be your best friend during a long layover. Use it to stay connected with friends and family, pass the time with games or movies, or get some work done (if you must).

Don’t forget to charge your phone before your layover, and consider bringing a portable charger just in case the phone runs flat. It’s possible because you’ll use the phone a lot.

 

Read a good book

Why not bring a good book if you’re looking for a more low-key way to pass the time? Getting lost in a story is a great way to forget about your surroundings and kill time.

Just make sure you don’t forget where you are and miss your flight! We recommend books that are easy to read and won’t require too much concentration.

 

Take a walk: There are lots to see at an airport.

If you’re feeling restless, get up and move around a bit. Taking a lap or two around the airport can help you stretch your legs and clear your head. And who knows – you might even stumble upon some exciting shops or restaurants that you didn’t know were there.

 

 

Duty-free shopping is at your mercy.

If you’re looking to do some shopping, duty-free stores are the way to go. These shops offer tax-free prices on various items, from clothes and cosmetics to alcohol and tobacco.

Be sure to budget your time and money carefully – it’s all too easy to get carried away in a duty-free store and the credit card built up in no time.

 

 

Massage those aches and pains away

Long layovers can be tough on the body, so why not treat yourself to a massage? Many airports now offer professional massage services, and there’s nothing like an excellent rub-down to help you relax.

Of course, these services can be pricey, so consider DIY-ing it with a neck pillow or personal massager if you’re on a budget.

 

Get some shut-eye

If you’re facing a long flight ahead, it might be worth trying to get some sleep during your layover. A quick nap can be tricky, but you can do a few things to make it easier.

First, find a comfortable spot to sit or lie down. If you’re in an airport lounge, use the chairs and couches – they’re usually more satisfied than those in the main terminal.

If you’re not in a lounge, a blanket or scarf can help make any seat more comfortable. And if you want to get some rest, consider investing in a travel pillow.

Just make sure you set the alarm, so you don’t miss your flight!

 

Dining during long layovers.

Plenty of options are available if you’re feeling hungry, though they may not be the healthiest. Most airport terminals have a variety of fast-food restaurants and cafes, and bars serving quick snacks and drinks.

Sit-down restaurants are usually available if you’re looking for something more substantial. Remember that these can be pricey, and you’ll need to allow enough time to eat and get through security again.

 

An Airport Transit Hotel – When Your long layover goes overnight

If your layover is long enough that you’ll need to sleep, there are a few options available. Airport transit hotels are designed for just this purpose, and they offer a comfortable place to rest and recharge before your next flight.

Of course, these can be pricey, so if you’re on a budget, consider finding a quiet spot in the airport and catching a few Zs there. Just make sure you’re not in a designated no-sleeping area and that your belongings are safe.

Check out this article on the KLIA2 Sama Sama Hotel in Kuala Lumpur – Malaysia.

Find great hotel rates in transit hotels at Booking.com!

 

 

Rest up in an Airport Lounge

If you have access to an airport lounge, make use of it! These lounges are designed for travellers, and they offer a variety of amenities to make your layover more comfortable.

Most lounges have comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, power outlets, and TV or reading material. Some also offer showers so that you can head off on your next flight fully refreshed and ready to go.

Get settled at a Sports Bar.

You love sports, and a massive game happens during your long layover. What do you do? Head to a sports bar, of course!

Unwinding at a bar can be a great way to kill some time, especially if you’re stuck at an airport with few amenities. Just find a bar showing the game you want to watch, grab a seat, and enjoy.

Of course, drink in moderation; two beers can quickly turn into ten when bored during long layovers.

 

 

Do some work on the Laptop.

You never know; you may be a travel writer like me and wish to write a blog post or do some social media work on the long layover to pass the time, use airport wifi, and get some job done!

 

If all else fails, people watch – It sounds a tad Creepy, right?

If you’re struggling to find something to do, take a seat, and people watch. People watching, not that I’ve done it, can be surprisingly fascinating, and you never know who you might see.

Just make sure you’re not being too obvious about it – no one likes to feel like they’re being watched!

So there you have it – our definitive guide to What to do during long layovers! We hope this has been helpful and that your next airport layover runs smoothly.

Need some more advice on airports? Check out things to do at Bangkok’s number one airport – Suvarnabhumi Airport.  

Otherwise, Check out Toronto’s best airport, Pearsons Airport.