Queue Up Your Favorite Podcasts Until Your Flight Boards
Having to kill hours before a flight is a frustrating and challenging task. The last thing you want to do is sit there watching the clock. You need to keep busy, and what better way is there than reading the hottest airport thriller or getting some exercise? Here are 20 ways to pass time at the airport.
1. Explore Airport Shops
Commercial airports are home to boutiques, unique vending machines, duty-free stores, and specialty shops. You can spend hours shopping for books, alcohol, perfume, and jewellery. Be careful, though, as these items can be marked up quite a bit.
2. Sample the Local Cuisine
Airport restaurants and food courts typically reflect the cuisine of the region. You can have some fun and kill some time, tasting food to get a glimpse into how the locals eat. Eating is always an enjoyable way to spend time, and many airports have sit-down restaurants where you can also relax for a bit.
3. Relax in a Lounge
Airport lounges are designed as a peaceful escape from the noise and hustle of an airport. You can find an empty seat, connect to the Wi-Fi, and have a drink. Some airports even offer showers, business centers, or rooms for napping. If you don't have a lounge membership, inquire if you can buy a day pass.
4. Read a Book
There's a reason that one of the most popular book genres is the airport thriller. There's nothing like passing some time by reading an entertaining and engrossing novel. Airports usually have a bookstore where you can pick up a new book. Then, you just need to find a quiet spot to read.
5. Listen to Music or Podcasts
Listening to your favorite playlist or several episodes of your favorite podcasts can pass the time during a flight delay, and is also a nice way to create a calming environment in a hectic airport. Invest in some noise-cancelling headphones to block out background noise and make the experience more engaging.
6. Exercise
Lots of airports have walking paths or even small gyms for you to get some exercise as you wait. You can walk the terminal to log your daily steps, or do a light workout routine before you have to board. You will feel more energized before your flight, and it will help reduce stiffness from sitting for hours on a plane.
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7. Catch Up on Work
Airports have Wi-Fi, charging stations, and business centers. You can find a spot where you're comfortable and catch up on emails or projects. Your deadlines don't have to be pushed back, and your productivity doesn't have to be lower just because you're travelling.
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8. Journal or Write
Airports are a great place to reflect on the adventure you're about to have, or one you've just completed. Whether you have a travel journal or simply like to write, the airport is a great place to be inspired. The people watching make it even better to plan your next short story.
9. Watch a Movie or TV Show
With the advent of streaming, there is always a new show or movie to watch. Download a bunch of movies and episodes of TV shows, in case the Wi-Fi at the airport is slow. Watching even one movie can help 90 minutes to 2 hours go by without a sweat.
10. People-Watch
Due to the amount of human traffic inside an airport on any given day, they are one of the best places to people-watch. You can watch the world pass by, but be careful not to stare at someone for too long.
11. Take Photos
Most people save their pic-taking and selfies for their trip, but most airports are photogenic environments. They have fun architecture, lots of subjects, and you can capture interesting moments.
12. Meditate
Airports are naturally stressful environments. Meditation is a way to calm nerves, and some even offer designated quiet rooms or prayer spaces.
13. Play Games on Your Phone
Mobile games are so addictive, you could play one for hours and not even realize it. Next time you're at the airport, try some puzzle games and multiplayer games. Many are free or only cost a few dollars.
14. Call or Video Chat with Friends and Family
Waiting for your flight at an airport is a great time to connect with friends and family. Phone and video calls can help pass the time, and it's a chance to share your travel plans or provide an update on your trip so far.
15. Shop Duty-Free
Duty-free shopping at the airport is a common pastime for people awaiting a flight. You can peruse perfumes, cosmetics, and spirits. Even if you don't buy anything, it's a fun experience.
16. Visit the Airport Spa
Believe it or not, some airports have spas. You can enjoy a quick facial, manicure, or a short massage. This can relieve travel stress and help you feel refreshed.
17. Sleep
Rest is a great way to pass the time, as long as you aren't planning to sleep on your flight. You can see if your terminal has reclining chairs or nap pods. Bring an eye mask and travel pillow to make the experience more comfortable.
18. Work on a Crossword
Try starting or finishing a crossword puzzle or Sudoku while you wait. Any type of brain teaser will help you stay mentally active.
19. Visit an Airport Exhibit or Museum
Some airports have small museums or exhibits where you can view art galleries, historical displays, or cultural exhibits. Most are free and can help enrich your travel experience.
20. Go Plane Spotting
Visit the observation deck or find a large window to get a front-row seat to watch planes take off and land. If you're an aviation enthusiast, you will have no trouble being entertained for a while.
