Extended Layovers: How to Enjoy Your Airport Time

Most of us dread layovers, especially the extended ones, but sometimes they are simply unavoidable. Whether your flight was delayed or you simply booked far-apart flights to save on tickets, you need something to do at the airport. We're here to help—we've put together some ideas you can try the next time you're forced to sit and wait for your plane. Enjoy!

1. Catch up on movies or series

Don't have time to watch the new season of your favorite TV series or watch a movie a friend recommended? Airport time is the perfect opportunity to do just that. If you have a tablet or smartphone with a streaming app and a pair of headphones, find a quiet corner to relax and enjoy the media.

Mobile data can be a problem in a foreign country, but we have a solution for that, too. Install an eSIM app before you leave. An eSIM app allows you to select different data plans for a variety of countries, making it easy to access affordable internet abroad without having to buy a physical SIM card at a kiosk.

Overall, the eSIM app is an ideal travel companion and can come in handy both during connecting flights and at your destination. For example, an eSIM UK plan will be ideal if you want to kill some time while waiting for a flight in the UK, but you can also buy data for other countries through the same app with just a few taps.

2. Work remotely

If you work remotely or are a digital nomad, layovers can be a great opportunity to catch up on work. You can:

• Answer emails

• Brainstorm ideas

• Edit photos and videos

• Schedule social media posts for the future

• Interact with followers

• Write drafts of blog or social media posts

Keep in mind that although airports offer free Wi-Fi, using it can be dangerous, especially for business-related matters. Public networks, particularly those with heavy traffic, attract hackers who like to steal personal information from unsuspecting victims. The way to stay safe is to connect via a data-encrypting VPN or use an eSIM mobile data plan.

3. Get out of the airport

If you have a few hours to spare and your airport isn't located in the middle of nowhere, you can use the time to explore. Even if the city isn't your destination, you can have fun walking or taking an Uber to a busier location.

Every big city has some attractions that don't require much time or effort. You can enjoy the architecture, go to a small museum, or just take a walk in nature. Airports offer baggage lockers payable with cards and coins, so you can leave your heavy luggage in a safe place and stretch your bones.

4. Think about what happens next

A layover can be a good opportunity to plan your actual vacation. If you know you'll be waiting for a connecting flight, you can even leave planning attractions for that very period.

Use your phone or tablet to search for attractions you want to try once you reach your destination. Check prices, opening hours, etc., and put everything into a handy itinerary so you don't waste valuable vacation time later.

5. Just… sleep

If your layover lasts a few hours and you're not worried about disrupting your sleep schedule, you can just... sleep. Sleeping at the airport may not be the most comfortable thing to do, but the good news is that airports are, in a sense, no-judgment zones where everyone is tired, cranky, and experiencing the same discomfort. No one will blink an eye if you just take a nap.

However, there are some rules. First and foremost, keep your safety in mind. Some areas or airports are less safe than others, so if you feel strange closing your eyes, trust your gut feeling.

If you want to take a nap at the airport, consider the following rules:

• Find a quiet place, but don't isolate yourself completely. Staying within sight of other passengers and security will help you feel safer.

• Hide your valuables. Use pockets or a waist bag if you have one. Keep valuables such as money, phones, and documents close to your body.

• Zip up your bags and keep them close. For example, you can use your backpack as a pillow. This way, you'll always feel that it's close by.

• Set an alarm. Don't miss your flight!

6. Try out cafés and restaurants

There are many cafés, bars, and restaurants at every airport, so why not give some of them a try? Especially if you're waiting for a long time—you're bound to get hungry at some point.

Any large airport will have McDonald's and Costa Coffee, but we recommend trying something else. Airport restaurants often serve local cuisine, and you might discover a new favorite. Be adventurous and sample the traditional dishes—you might even be inspired to revisit the country for a longer stay next time!