How to make the most of your layover time
Layovers, those inevitable pitstops you have to prepare for on long-haul flights, can be really dull. They have a notorious reputation for stretching time and making travelers wait uncomfortably for hours, dozing off their chairs. Your stopover time can be much cooler if you consider airport exploration, duty-free shopping sprees, and people-watching. Consider indulging in the following activities during your layover time.
Enjoy the lounge facilities
One of the easiest ways to kill a few hours at the airport while you wait for your connecting flight is to visit the lounge. Major airports now provide a wide range of amenities, including sleeping pods, gyms, and spas. Do prior research on the lounge and the amenities it provides, and check if your credit or debit card allows free access.
Start journaling
If you got a notebook and pen with you, then don't just sit and watch the aircraft take off. Just start journaling. You could write about absolutely anything in the world. Think of writing about your travel experiences, or writing down a set of agendas for the trip you are going to take. If you are into drawing, then doodle your heart away.
Organize your memories and photos from the trip
If you are on the way back from your vacation, then utilize this layover time to organize and edit your photos. It may be the best time to go through all your images and videos while still being in the momentum of the trip. You can categorize the photos, delete duplicate ones, transfer the content to a hard drive, or make compilation videos.
Explore the city
You can always go outside and explore the city if you have a lot of hours to kill at the airport. Additionally, many airports offer free city tours, which can be a great way to discover a new location that wasn't on your itinerary. If not, you can always get a taxi or avail of the public transportation system to visit local sights.
Book a transit hotel
Many major airports offer transfer hotels designed for weary travelers with long layovers. While some of these hotels are located inside security, others are on the ground, requiring you to go through security twice. The majority of transfer hotels accept reservations by the hour or half-day, which makes them surprisingly affordable if you want to freshen up and take a nap.
