5 Travel Hacks For Long Airport Layovers Or Delays And Making The Most Of It
We’ve all been there-the dreaded airport layover or worse yet delay but we’re here to save the day with our top 5 travel hacks for long airport layovers or delays and making the most of it. The next time you’re stranded at an airport with time on your hands, look at it as an opportunity to use your long airport layovers to your advantage. With all the traveling that I do, I’ve learned a thing or two along the way about being stranded in airports either for weather delays, long layovers, a mechanical difficulties-the list can go on and on.
With so many people traveling for this summer, and unpredictable weather and staffing shortages in the new reality of travel, encountering a lengthy layovers and cancellations at the airport are inevitable–we all experience it at some point in time.
So next time you find yourself with an extended period of free time between flights, here are five ways you can use it to your advantage:
- Take time to dine – A typical airport meal is rarely relaxing. Most of the time we’re grabbing fast food to bring to the gate or onto the plane. So having time to actually sit down at a restaurant and not be can be a nice change of pace. If there aren’t good options for a sit-down restaurant at your layover airport–and you don’t mind going back through security–check out the surrounding airport hotels for restaurants and take their shuttle over for dinner.
- Play catch-up – Take advantage of your extra time by catching up with family and friends–make phone calls, write a few emails, or see what’s happening on social media. Most airports now offer WiFi for easy connectivity during your time there. For me, because I teach English online with VIPKid, I often actually get to the airport early to make use of the lounge and teach classes from there.
- Explore- If time allows, grab a cab or a bus to explore the city. Check out the classic landmarks or discover the locals’ favorite spots. Make sure you allow plenty of time to get back, considering traffic, security lines and the walk to your gate. Planned accordingly, exploring the city could be much more fun than waiting around at the airport! (If you’re in an international city, don’t forget to check if a transit visa is required.)
- Grab some zzz’s- Many common layover airports offer transit hotels. Instead of trying to get some rest on the dreaded airport chair, check into a short-term room at a transit hotel. These are a great place to rest, freshen up and catch some sleep. Transit hotels are usually inside the terminal and a contain bed and shower. The rooms can be rented hourly for the duration of your layover.
- Indulge in a lounge pass- If your layover is too short to justify a transit hotel but long enough to dread sitting in the general areas, consider purchasing a day pass to your airline’s lounge. Generally, a one-day pass runs about $50, depending on their airline. By accessing the lounge, you can avoid the busy airport terminals and wait for your flight in comfort. Light snacks, beverages, WiFi, televisions, and personal flight assistance are typical services offered in lounges.
In today’s rapid pace, sometimes it’s nice to have an excuse to sit back, relax and take a deep breath. What’s your best travel hack for taking advantage of air travel delays and what would your 5 Travel Hacks For Long Airport Layovers include?
