Non-stop flights might be ideal when traveling, but they’re not always available. When you have a non-connecting flight, you’ll have to consider how you’ll spend the time during the layover. Even if the layover isn’t scheduled to be too long, you must leave room for a bit of error or delay.
It will happen, so it’s better to come prepared. Do you know how to stay entertained at the airport for a longer period of time, however? If not, then it’s time to learn every airport tip there is to know about keeping yourself busy and sane during a long layover.
In the guide below, you’ll discover some of the best airport entertainment advice and tips you’ll want to remember for your next trip. Continue reading below to learn more!
Stream From Your Phone or Tablet
Streaming different shows, movies, or videos from your cell phone or tablet while waiting in the airport is a great way to make the time go by faster. Once you get lost in something you’re watching, two hours can go by without you even realizing it. If you have cable at home, you can even stream HBO and all your other favorite channels!
Even if you don’t have cable, you can still download the different channel apps and sign up for a free trial for most of them! When streaming, do be sure to find a seat near a recharge station. This way, you can plug your phone in and save its battery.
Don’t forget to ask about the airport wifi either. Most airports will have wifi access available to you if needed.
Take the Time to Get Some Rest
If you’re stuck in a layover and can’t find much to do, then never underestimate the beauty of a good nap. Now is the perfect time to get some rest in. Even if you can’t drift into full sleep, you can rest your eyes a bit.
Chances are, you’re most likely exhausted from the flight before. If you have trouble resting your eyes in public, then be sure to speak with the airport about hotel accommodations onsite. Ask about the different room options as well.
There may be a cheaper option for those only wanting to book the room for half the day or so.
Explore the Airport and Try New Food
When you feel full of energy, why not explore the airport and try new food also? Each airport is unique and offers a variety of food options. Many airports have art displays and other interesting finds for you to learn about.
Stay on the optimistic side of things and consider it a visit to a local museum. Look at each piece of art or other types of displays and take the time to read about each one of them. When you’re ready to eat, browse through all the different food options.
Instead of going with the obvious and eating at a chain restaurant that you have back at home, try something different. Try to find something that’s more of a local favorite rather than a national or global favorite.
Use the Time to Get Some Work Done
If you know your flight will have a layover, then be sure to pack your laptop or other work devices. The layover is the perfect time to get some work done. Pull out the laptop and stay productive.
You should be able to find a quiet spot next to a charging station where you can set up shop and get focused. If you’re in school, this is also the perfect time to get schoolwork done or to get some extra study time in.
Visit Airport Gift Shops and Find Items
Airports have gift shops with souvenir items and many other items too! Pretend you’re in a shopping mall and visit the different gift shops. Take the time to find something your loved ones back at home will adore.
If you won’t have time on your trip to purchase something for them, or you tend to forget while having so much fun, then this is a great opportunity to do so! Try to find something you believe each person will get some use out of and purchase a few different items for a variety.
Leave the Airport and Explore the City
If your layover is going to be several hours long, then why spend the entire day sitting in the airport? Instead, leave the airport and explore the city. You should be able to have notifications sent to your phone about the flight.
If there’s an update on the progress of the layover, then you’ll know as soon as it happens and can start heading back to the airport when needed. On your way out, make sure to stop at the airport’s information desk and ask them for some advice. They should be able to tell you about a few places nearby to visit.
Play Cards or a Boardgame
Being sucked into your cell phone, computer, or tablet screen for hours can damage your eyes and cause fatigue. Instead, try to find other ways to entertain yourself. Bring cards and several board games to play. This is something the entire family will enjoy, and it gives your eyes a break.
You might be able to find a game or two in the airport’s gift shops. If you can find a game you’ve never played before, then you’ll use up time reading the instructions and learning how to play! Plus, you’ll then know how to play a new game.
What’s the Best Airport Tip on Staying Entertained?
Which airport tip listed above do you think will be the best idea for your layover? Not sure which one you’d enjoy the most? Why not try a few of them?
If you have several hours during your layover, then you should be able to fit in more than one!
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