If you have a long stopover between connecting flights, you might be wondering what to do during that long stopover. Even with stopovers of around 2-3 hours, most of the time there are no issues and you can get through to the connecting flights area in less than 30 minutes. So, what to do all that time? Here are 5 things that can keep you busy, making the stopover feel more like a quick leg stretch.
Go Sightseeing
If your stopover is 5 hours or more and your flight is on time, you can venture out of the airport for a quick trip into the city. Just keep an eye on the time and ensure to be back at the airport at least 1.5 hours early. Depending how far the city is from the airport, you can hop on a train or subway to the city centre for a meal, a quick 2-hour sightseeing tour and/or a quick visit to a worldwide tourist attraction.
Alternatively, did you know that many airlines offer tours for layovers over 5 hours? Check with your airline if they have something called a “stopover program”. Or, some airlines will allow you to stop for 1-3 nights without additional charge to your airfare. If your airline doesn’t offer that service, many destinations even tour companies that offer tours for travelers with a stopover! So, why not visit one more city on your vacation?
Teo’s Travel Tip: In order to leave the airport, you need to book one ticket all the way to your final destination. That way, when boarding the first flight of your journey, you will be checked in all the way to your final destination, as well as your luggage. But if you have two separate tickets booked, you need to claim your luggage, go through customs and check-in again for your connecting flight.
Treat Yourself to an Airport Moment
Almost all airports around the world have lounges where travelers can enjoy a relaxing atmosphere with unlimited food and drinks included. And many airports have several lounges, which range from airline-affiliated lounges to public lounges. Did you know that you don’t need to be flying Business Class to use a lounge? If the airline does require you to fly Business Class in order to use their lounge, you can use a public lounge for a fee. So, escape the crowds and treat yourself to a meal and drink while sitting on luxurious couches. Most of them will also have a phone/laptop charger at each seat, compared to the main airport areas where finding a place to charge your phone can be a hassle.
Sleep It Off
If your stopover is long, many of the airports have some hotels around them which offer stopover rates. So, rather than paying the full price of a hotel room, you can pay part of the price depending how long you need the room. Alternatively, did you know that some airports have an airport transit hotel, designed specifically for jetsetters who want to take a nap between long flights? Whether you’re arriving, transiting or departing, you can rent a comfortable and private place to sleep. Long-haul travel doesn’t have to be stressful at all!
Use the Airport Facilities
Each airport has at least one unique facility. Other than several restaurants as usual, some airports may have a gym, others may have an infinity pool, among other amenities to keep travelers enjoying their transit time. I’ve even seen airports that have a mini-museum about something related to the country! Research the facilities at your transit airport, and you may be surprised how much there is to do!
Be an Airplane Photographer
Many airports have an observation deck where airplanes can be seen taking off and landing. If you enjoy flying like me, you’ll definitely enjoy the observation deck! Alternatively, you can walk around and find the best place to stand in the airport to see airplanes passing by. Take nothing but pictures or videos, leave nothing but memories!
If you’re nervous about an itinerary involving connecting flights, no need to be! As can be seen, there are many ways to kill time during airport stopovers! I hope I gave you ideas to use when the time comes!