Catching ZZZs in the airport isn’t just for broke backpackers anymore; here’s how to do it right.
I pulled a few overnights in airports when I was in my late teens and early twenties. A few were because of cancelled late-night flights, others were by choice the night before an early departure home (in part to ensure I didn’t oversleep but mostly to save money on hotels).
Airport sleeping is no longer just for young backpackers on a budget. Early morning flights, long layovers, flight cancellations, weather delays, sold-out airport hotels…these are some of the reasons why you’ll see travelers from all walks of life stretched out on airport floors around the world
Next time you’re stuck in a airport on a long layover or overnight, here are eight tips to help you get a decent night’s sleep.
1. Do your research.
Ideally you should research your airport sleep options before embarking on your trip; if you didn’t, most major airports offer free Wi-Fi and chargers, so you can quickly assess what’s available. Don’t feel limited to your departure terminal, as not all concourses are created equal. (International terminals are usually nicer than domestic ones, often offering round-the-clock dining options, spa services, and shower facilities. If you’re lucky enough to be stuck overnight at Singapore Changi International Airport, not only will you have access to showers and spas, but napping rooms, luggage storage, and a swimming pool with a hot tub, too.)
Keep in mind smaller airports often close at night, while others ban people from sleeping there. (Here’s looking at you, Christchurch Airport in New Zealand.) For comprehensive info on not only how to sleep at the airport, but also on which airports have the best (and worst) amenities and facilities, check out Sleeping in Airports. The site features 1200+ airport guides that’ll give you the info you need to plan your sleepover, written by travelers who’ve terminal-snoozed. It offers other useful info, too, including:
-Airport reviews, including sleep pod locations, baggage storage, and late-night dining
-Activity (including nearby sightseeing) suggestions when you’ve got a long layover
-Airport hotel reviews
-Lounge admission policies (yes, you can buy your way into certain lounges without having a Biz or FC ticket in hand)
-Travelers’ humorous tales of airport overnights.
2. Consider on-site hotels and sleep pods.
Chains such as Hilton, Sheraton, and Hyatt can be found inside airports around the world. In some cases, “inside” means the hotel is actually inside the terminal, which means bypassing the inconvenience of going through customs and/or security the following day. Other airports offer hotels that are a short walk from the terminals; if you have the money to spare, it’s a sure bet for getting much-needed sleep without leaving the airport. The growing trend of sleep pods (also called by some combination of nap, snooze, capsule, cab, and more) are a good compromise for those who want to save money on a hotel but don’t want to camp out on a cold airport floor. Look for Yotel, Minute Suites, and GoSleep, among others. Comfort level varies from actual rooms to enclosed flatbed seats. Pricing is usually reasonable and ranges from hourly to overnight rates. Some even offer showers, TVs, Wi-Fi, hot drinks, and (even) bona fide beds.
3. Protect your belongings.
If you must sleep in a terminal, traveling light is crucial to prevent your belongings from being pinched. If you’re lugging a large suitcase or more than one bag, check to see if the airport has luggage storage. Keep your passport on you at all times, whether in an interior pocket or worn around your neck. Use your bag with valuables (wallet, phone, travel documents) as a pillow, and keep your other bags close. Double check that your carry-on is locked, and consider sleeping with an arm or leg through the handles of any other bags, if possible. Oh, and resist the urge to leave your luggage unattended to make a quick run to the bathroom—in addition to the risk of it getting stolen, security is on high alert for lone bags.
4. Don’t choose an isolated location.
This is especially true for solo travelers. Depending on the airport, yoga and prayer rooms may seem tempting spots for some shut-eye, but they can also increase the chances of getting robbed or worse if they’re empty for a long stretch. You’re better off sleeping at your gate near other people. For a greater chance of uninterrupted sleep, check the departure board before nodding off to learn if there’s an early flight leaving from your gate.
5. Create a restful environment.
Easier said than done, but using the same tactics you would on a flight for some rest can help. Block out light with a sleep mask, and use earplugs or headphones to tune out passenger chatter and constant flight announcements. If you packed a toiletry kit in your carry-on, take a few minutes to brush your teeth and wash your face. Change into comfortable athleisure clothes (unless you’re already wearing them), and use a warm scarf or jacket as a blanket. (Airports are notorious for being freezing cold.) If you brought a neck pillow for the flight, put that on top of your bag with your valuables for a more comfortable headrest.
6. Set an alarm.
Between jet lag and the wearying effects of stress, don’t underestimate the possibility of oversleeping. If you use your phone as an alarm, make sure it’s charged before you fall asleep.
7. Expect to be awakened by security or cleaners.
Some airports crack down on overnight sleepers more than others, so don’t be surprised if security rouses you before your alarm goes off. Be prepared to show your boarding pass and explain your situation.
8. Spring for an airport lounge.
The good news? Airline lounges aren’t limited to just first-class passengers and elite frequent fliers. The bad news? Most lounges aren’t open overnight. (There are exceptions, such as the Plaza Premium Lounge in Hong Kong.) However, many lounges allow you to buy a day pass, which gives you access to food, showers, and a place to rest. (If you’re jetlagged, your body may want to sleep during the day anyway.)
Use an app such as LoungeBuddy to get the lowdown on which lounges offer the amenities you seek, from the basics to a hot buffet and spa treatments. You can also purchase lounge day passes via the Lounge Buddy app. Skytrax and Lounge Review are other useful resources.
Twist’s Take: Whether you sleep in an airport overnight by choice or because you got stuck, these eight tips will help making the experience more tolerable.
