Long layovers can be one of the less glamorous aspects of travel, but they don’t have to be dreadful.
Here are my top tips for passing time at airports, making your layover more bearable and even fun.
Stay Entertained and Productive
1. Get some work done
As a professional travel blogger, there are always blog posts that need to be written, photos that need to be edited and uploaded. I am in a permanent state of playing catch-up, and an airport layover can be the perfect place to do just that.
2. Catch up on some reading
Once the blog posts are done, the emails answered, and the hotel bookings are confirmed, the airport layover can be a great place to start that book you’ve been meaning to since Christmas before last.
Of course, I prefer good old-fashioned books, but if you prefer, eBooks are the perfect alternative, as you can store multiple titles on one device, saving space and weight in your carry-on.
3. Watch a Movie or TV Show
Now that I am a travel blogger, my laptop goes everywhere with me. And batteries these days last long enough to watch a couple of movies, if the layover is a long one.
Netflix is my preferred streaming service. Just make sure you download any movies or series from the app before you leave.
4. Tune into a podcast or listen to an Audiobook
Podcasts and audiobooks are also excellent options for passing the time, especially if you want to give your eyes a break. I often listen to audiobooks after a long flight, when sleep doesn’t always come quickly.
5. Play Games Online
Playing games online can be a great distraction. Games like Connect 4 online can be both entertaining and a nice way to engage with friends or other travellers. Whether you’re playing solo or with others, games can make the waiting time more enjoyable.
Make use the Airport Amenities
Many airports are equipped with a range of amenities designed to make your wait more pleasant. From spas to art exhibits, there’s often more to do than you might expect.
1. Visit Lounges
Airport lounges are a great place to relax and recharge. Many lounges offer comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks and sometimes even showers and nap areas. If you don’t have access through a frequent flyer program, consider purchasing a day pass.
2. Check Out Airport Attractions
Some airports have unique attractions and services. For example, Singapore’s Changi Airport features a butterfly garden, a rooftop pool, and a movie theatre. Research the amenities at your layover airport and take advantage of anything that piques your interest.
3. Get a Massage or Spa Treatment
I once got a shave at the airport in Bangkok. And as a sufferer of Restless Legs Syndrome, the idea of getting a massage after a long flight, say London to Singapore or Kuala Lumpur, before continuing to Sydney, is too good to pass up.
Keep Moving
Sitting for long periods can be uncomfortable and unhealthy, and it is for these reasons that I am not a big fan of flying long haul. But when there is no choice, I use the layover as an opportunity to stretch my legs and get some exercise.
1. Walk Around
This is of course my favourite way to get the blood running again. Many airports are quite large, and you can easily spend an hour or more walking through the different areas, browsing shops, and people-watching.
2. Exercise Rooms
Some airports even have designated exercise areas or gyms where you can work out. Even if there isn’t a formal facility, you can still do some simple exercises like stretching, squats, or yoga in a quiet corner.
Eat and Hydrate
Aeroplane food isn’t always the best, and long flights can be dehydrating. Use your layover to enjoy a good meal and stay hydrated.
1. Try Local Cuisine
If you are flying internationally, a layover can be the perfect opportunity to experience some cuisine of a country that you haven’t yet visited.
2. Stay Hydrated
Air travel can be very dehydrating, so it’s important to drink plenty of water. That’s why you need to carry your own water bottle. One of the first things I do in any airport is to find the water fountain:
Engage in Mindfulness and Relaxation
Long layovers can be stressful, but they also offer a chance to unwind and practice mindfulness.
1. Meditate
Find a quiet corner or a designated meditation room in the airport to practice some mindfulness and meditation. Even a short session can help reduce stress and improve your mood, in a way that reading, playing games or watching movies can’t.
2. Listen to Relaxing Music
Listening to calming music can help you unwind wherever you are and make the time at airports pass more pleasantly.