How to Beat the Layover Blues
You've finally landed at the airport. But now, the only thing that stands between you and your final destination is an arduous layover, and few things test your patience like spending hours stuck in a connecting terminal. Don't worry, though—we've got just the list to help the time fly by. From people-watching to going souvenir shopping, here are 20 smart ways to survive a long layover.
1. Explore the Airport
If you have a long layover ahead, one of the more interesting things you can do to pass the time is explore the airport. If you're a seasoned traveler, you probably know that none of the airports you've ever landed in have been similar. As you roam, you'll likely find some gems here and there that you might not see anywhere else.
2. Read a Book
Brought a novel (or two) with you? If you're planning to read your book on your flight, you might be reluctant to finish it during your stopover, which is probably why it's best to always bring two books just in case. But honestly, take our advice: for the ultimate peaceful way to survive your layover, read a book.
3. Download Shows & Movies (and Maybe Watch an Episode or Two)
If you have a long layover, what better time than now to download movies and shows onto your laptop or tablet? Sure, the airport Wi-Fi might be slow, but it beats having nothing to watch during your flight. Plus, you can also take advantage of the free time you have and watch an episode or two now.
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4. Journal
Just came from another trip? Journal it! Writing about what you've already done (or what you plan to do) is a great way to pass the time, and allows you to keep a record of those memories. You can even plan out a scrapbook if you have a collection of photos you've taken on the trip to add to your entries.
5. Plan Your Itinerary
Another way to take advantage of the free time you have is to plan out your next itinerary. Which spots are you planning to hit first? What time will you arrive, and will you be grabbing lunch or dinner? What are some must-try restaurants at your destination? As you flesh out your plan, time will fly right by.
6. Plane Watch
Since you're already at the airport, why not go plane watch? You're bound to find plenty of incredible spots throughout the building where you can catch sight of flights landing or taking off, and you might even be able to take some nice shots with your camera.
7. Eat
If you know your next meal is going to be on the plane, you might want to do yourself a favor and eat while you're still on the ground. Sure, airport food options are often on the more expensive side, but at least you'll have more options to choose from.
8. Shop for Souvenirs
Didn't have time to go souvenir shopping yet? Use this time to get on it! Even though you're unlikely to find cheap options at the airport, you might still be able to get your hands on some nifty trinkets to bring home to your friends and family.
9. Catch Up on Work or Studies
Are you a digital nomad on the go to your next destination to work remote or study abroad in? Then it might be a good time to catch up on your to-do list now, given that you have access to both free Wi-Fi and plenty of charging stations.
10. Take a Power Nap
Don't want to work or use your head when you're technically on vacation? We get it. Instead of tiring yourself out, go take a power nap before your next flight. Just make sure you don't sleep too long—you might wake up groggy or miss your boarding time.
11. People Watch
Not a fan of watching planes? People-watching can be just as interesting. It's a great way to connect with your surroundings and study interesting characters, which airports are often full of. Observe the travelers around you and try to see what kind of stories you can create about them.
12. Play Games
If you're not into reading or people-watching, why not play some games instead? This might also be a good time to download some apps on your phone so that you're ready to go when you board your next flight.
13. Exercise
You might think exercising in front of so many moving travelers at the airport is an odd thing to do, but it's actually more common than you think. If you do get easily self-conscious, though, you can also pick a quieter spot to do some stretches and light cardio instead.
14. Visit the Airport Lounge
If you have access to an airport lounge, you'll be able to spend your long layover much more comfortably, given that these spaces often offer free drinks, food, amenities, and plush seating. Access may be granted either if you have an airline membership or benefits through your credit card, or if you purchase a day pass.
15. Reorganize Your Belongings
What better time to reorganize your belongings than now? If you have a checked bag that'll be transferred for you, you won't need to worry about it, but you can still sort your items in your carry-on to either ease the weight or make sure nothing's too cramped together in there.
16. Listen to Music
Need some noise to drown out the airport crowd? Put on your noise-canceling headphones and jam to your favorite playlist. This can also help you better fall asleep if you're hoping to take a power nap before you board your next flight.
17. Teach Yourself Something New
You can also use this free time to teach yourself something new, so go watch some tutorials on YouTube or enroll in a free, quick course online. You'll be surprised how little time your brain needs to get a skill down, especially when you're alert and focused.
18. Chat with a Friend
You can also call up a friend or family member to get them up to speed on what you've done so far on your trip. Talking about your travels and experiences can make time pass quicker, after all. Just make sure you account for time zone differences—you wouldn't want to wake your friend up in the middle of the night.
19. Listen to a Podcast or Audiobook
If you'd rather listen than read a book, audiobooks are the way to go. Or, if you're more into true stories, documentaries, and talk shows, podcasts might be the better choice. Whatever it is, they're guaranteed to make time pass by quicker.
20. Stock Up on Snacks
To make sure you don't go hungry on your next flight, stock up on some snacks at the airport. You might be able to find some interesting eats that aren't too pricey, and they'll be able to hold you over until you finally land at your destination.
