The downtime between flights with long layovers brings with it a weird feeling of unease. Depending on the length, it can be difficult to know what to do.
It’s still part of your travel day, and built into the schedule, but it also can be lengthy enough (sometimes hours and hours) that you don’t want to spend it sitting at your gate.
Instead of fretting about wasted time, with a bit of planning and reliable data, layovers can be as much fun as your time spent at your destination. Here’s how to make the most of that liminal time between flights.
Try activities outside the airport
If you have more than a couple of hours and your airport is well connected to the rest of the city, then consider extending your exploring time if you have flights with long layovers.
If you have 6-8 hours, for example, that’s more than enough time to:
- See the downtown core of the city you’re in (if it’s close enough to the airport)
- Visit a restaurant for some local cuisine
- Check out a local landmark
- Do a quick museum tour
- Visit a shopping mall
Just make sure that you build in re-entry time for an international flight, as once you leave the airport, you’ll have to go through security again.
Use your eSIM data to check in to your flight and keep all your documents ready to go so you don’t waste time at security.
Hit the lounge between flights with long layovers
Worn out from your trip so far? Kick back at an airport lounge. If you’re a premium member or frequent traveller with your airline, you might already have access.
If not, it could still be worth paying the one time fee to access comfy seats, showers, and food that could be of better quality than what’s available in the rest of the terminal.
This is an especially good option if you want to recharge during late night layovers.
That being said, if you want to actually catch up on sleep, look into a short-stay airport hotel or sleep pod, if available. Large, international airports like Tokyo Narita or London Heathrow actually have hourly rooms specifically for naps and showers.
Sometimes a few hours of dedicated rest can make all the difference.
Get your steps in
Combat the risks of a sedentary day of community by staying active with ease. Walk around and explore the terminal. In fact, some airports feel like destinations in and of themselves.
Many airports have indoor art installations to view, while others have quiet zones or places for mediation and worship that you can wander to. Keeping your legs stretched and moving will help reduce flight-induced fatigue and improve your circulation.
If you’re travelling with kids, head to dedicated play zones so they can burn some energy and make the next leg of the trip easier on everyone.
Catch up on work between flights with long layovers
If you’re travelling for work, there might be an expectation that you’ll remain in contact with the office at home. Use your eSIM data to answer emails or download documents for offline use. An eSIM can enable you to stay productive as a business traveller, even across time zones.
While you work, walk, or rest, keep an eye on time and gate updates. Sometimes airports are unpredictable — especially during busy holiday times or if there’s inclement weather. Use your eSIM for real-time updates to avoid unnecessary stress.
Long layovers can be a good thing
Long layovers can feel like a delay in getting you to your destination, but they don’t always have to feel like wasted time. Try to see a long layover as an opportunity to reset, get some much needed rest, explore, or simply recharge before your next flight.
Whether you choose to catch up on rest or try a new activity outside of the airport, a long layover can become a more enjoyable part of your journey.
