If you’re embarking on a trip around the world, chances are you’ll have a couple of long layovers (planned or otherwise) to deal with. Long hours of boredom or hoping to get a few hours of shuteye without having all of your stuff stolen are a few things to think about before arriving at any airport for the night. All airports are not created equal (far from it actually), and you could be in for a big surprise if you’re planning on bedding down, getting something to eat, or having something to do. You can have some idea of what you’re up against by visiting www.sleepinginairports.net, or “The Budget Traveller’s Guide to Sleeping in Airports.”
Most airports you would find yourself in are covered by user reviews, and given one of three ratings: hell, tolerable, or excellent. If you’ve ever spent a horrible night in an airport, you’ll want to visit this site, and hopefully add your own experience. The information is usually detailed enough to give you an idea of what to expect. Reviewers frequently discuss the temperature, overall safety, availability of places to stretch out, comfort of the seats, availability of food, forms of entertainment, etc. Do yourself a favor and check it out before buying that ticket with the overnight layover in some random city; you might be better off paying slightly more for a ticket or planning on getting a hotel to avoid a disastrous night in a crappy airport.
Of course there’s more to making yourself comfortable in the airport for a long layover or a night’s sleep than just knowing what to expect. Some of this stuff might be in your pack already, but if it isn’t, consider bringing it along if you anticipate having to catch some shuteye in between flights. Also be sure to keep it in your carry-on if you won’t be getting your luggage before your next flight!
- A sleep sheet. If you don’t have one, get one. They are small and lightweight, and can make you feel instantly better about bedding down just about anywhere.
- An inflatable travel pillow. They pack up to practically nothing, and can be the difference between some actual sleep and a sore neck.
- An eyeshade. You can sometimes snag these on your flight if you ask for one. Intense fluorescent lighting is the worst when you are trying to sleep.
- An extra layer. This is most likely in your pack, but remember to put it in your carry-on! A blanket from a previous flight makes a nice addition to your pack.
- Toiletries. It’s amazing how much better you feel after washing your face and brushing your teeth.
- An alarm. If you manage to make yourself comfortable enough (or are tired enough from previous traveling) to pass out, be sure to have some way of making your flight.
Got any other tips on how to survive a night in the airport? Please share them in the comments!