How to Spend an Overnight Layover at the Airport

Nobody wants to get stuck sleeping at the airport, but when you’re a frequent flyer its bound to happen eventually. It’s possible to get a decent night’s rest, but you might need to be creative to do so.

Find a Rest Area
Larger airports tend to have quiet areas where stranded travelers can catch some Zs. Sometimes they provide cots, while other times they’re just reclining chairs or a spot on the floor. It gets you out of the terminal, so make sure to ask around where you can find one.

Bring a Hammock

Seriously, this can be a great option in some airports. Just find a great place to tie up and you have a makeshift bed that keeps you off the cold, hard floor. You might want to check with an employee before setting up, though, just to be sure it won’t cause problems.

Stock Up on Snacks

Most restaurants and stores close for the night, so make sure you stop in and buy snacks and drinks before going to bed. You don’t want to wake up in the middle of the night and find yourself with no food or water.

Protect Your Bags

If you’ve got carry-ons or luggage with you, it’s important to secure them while you nap. One full-proof plan is to simply sleep on top of them to deter would-be thieves from stealing your stuff. Otherwise, ask and see if the airport has lockers available where you can stash your stuff.