Keeping busy during long layovers can be a challenge. Generally the very thought of stopping over at an airport for 5+ hours is mind numbing. So, what do you do? How do you keep yourself entertained? Here are some tips to do just that.
Leave the airport! – This is not always possible as some airports are quite far from the city, however in cities like Amsterdam, Hong Kong, London and Bangkok, getting to and from the city center is just a short train ride away. If you do decide to explore, be sure to leave yourself enough time to get back to the airport for your flight, keeping in mind that you will have to go through both customs and security. Also be mindful of the visa rules. Will it be free for you to roam around for a few hours? If the visa will cost you money, is it worth it?
Playing Online Games – Some airports offer FREE wifi, which can really help kill time. If you’re trying to stay ‘unplugged’ to avoid work, then why not play some games? There are many online sites that offer hours of entertainment and if you’re really into whatever game you’re playing, then time will fly by.
Walk/Exercise – Don’t laugh. Many people do this in airports. During long layovers it’s important to keep your blood flowing and your body limber in order to avoid things like blood clotting. If you’re into yoga, bring a mat with your carry-on luggage, find a quiet corner and do your thing. It’s a great way to prepare your body for the next leg of your trip and it will kill time as well. If you’re not a yoga fan, walk around the terminal (providing you haven’t brought a ton of carry-on bags with you). It’s better than sitting in a chair and waiting for 5+ hours.
Sleeping – If you’re layover is overnight and you don’t want to spend money on a hotel room, then sleeping in the airport is an option. All you need is a small travel pillow (or soft-ish daypack), an eye mask (if you want semi-decent sleep) and a blanket that you “borrowed” from the airline. Once you’ve arrived at your destination, look for benches without arms, if there are none, look for a somewhat clean corner and curl up on the floor. Remember to keep your valuables on your person if you do this and not on the luggage cart (if you have one).
Journal Catch-Up- Long layovers are a great time to sit down and reflect on your trip (if you’re coming home) and get caught up on your journal. Grab some munchies, find a quiet corner and snuggle down -I know that can be difficult in an airport! If music is your ideal background noise, put on your earphones and play some tunes while you write.
People Watch -This is by far one of the best things to do -for like an hour or two. People watching is fun anywhere, but in airports its even more entertaining. Some of the outfits people wear on planes is simply hilarious. If you’re traveling with friends, find some paper and markers and make score cards to rate the outrageous outfits, gross behaviors and funny sleepers. Just be sure that only you see the score cards and you keep the sniggering to a minimum!
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