Sleeping In New Orleans Airport: Is It Possible?

can i sleep in new orleans airport

If you're planning to sleep in New Orleans Airport, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, while the airport is generally considered safe, it's important to take precautions to ensure your safety and the security of your valuables. The airport never truly closes, with staff and maintenance workers present throughout the night, and you can also find 24-hour food options. There are lounges you can enter by paying at the door, and free WiFi is available. If sleeping at the airport doesn't appeal to you, there are hotels nearby that provide free airport shuttles.

Characteristics Values
Safety Generally considered safe, but there are risks, especially when travelling alone. It is recommended to stay near other travellers or close to security, and to keep valuables hidden.
Amenities Free WiFi, lounges, mobile charging points, lockers, 24-hour food options, and nearby hotels.
Comfort May not be comfortable due to lack of seating or privacy in some areas.
Alternatives Hotels near the airport provide free airport shuttles, and there are lounges that can be accessed by paying at the door, purchasing a lounge pass, or through a membership program.

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Safety precautions

If you're spending the night at New Orleans Airport, there are a few safety precautions you should take to ensure your safety and the security of your valuables. Here are some tips to follow:

  • Know the layout of the airport: The airport consists of a three-level central hall connected to three concourses (A, B, and C). The ground level has baggage claim and arrivals, the second level has security checkpoints, and the third level has ticketing and departures. Knowing the layout can help you identify safe areas to sleep and locate essential services.
  • Locate the security office: It is advisable to know where the security office is situated in case of emergencies or if you need assistance.
  • Look for video cameras: When choosing a place to sleep, opt for areas under video surveillance. This provides an extra layer of security and deters potential thieves.
  • Stay near other travellers or security: Especially if you're travelling alone, it's recommended to stay in areas where other travellers are present or close to security personnel. This can enhance your safety and reduce the risk of theft.
  • Keep your valuables secure: It's important to keep your valuables out of sight and secure them if possible. Keep money, important documents, and any other valuables hidden or close to you at all times.
  • Consider staying in a secure area: If possible, access the secured area past security, as it tends to be safer than the public areas like baggage claim and ticket counters.
  • Stay vigilant: While the airport is generally safe, it's important to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings. If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe at any point, don't hesitate to relocate or seek assistance from security personnel.
  • Plan for discomfort: Sleeping in an airport may be uncomfortable and challenging. Be prepared for the lack of comfort and the potential impact on your rest.

While these precautions can enhance your safety, it's important to assess your own comfort level and make informed decisions. If you have alternative accommodation options or can arrange transportation to a nearby hotel, that may provide a more comfortable and secure experience.

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Nearby hotels

While some travellers have reported spending the night in New Orleans Airport, reviews are mixed, with some people reporting safety concerns and others feeling secure. If you'd prefer to stay in a hotel, there are several options nearby.

Holiday Inn New Orleans Airport North

The Holiday Inn provides a free airport shuttle, which picks up at the Transportation Centre, located on the first floor across from the baggage claim area.

Other hotels

For more options, you can visit Tripadvisor to see a list of hotels in New Orleans, search for deals and read traveller reviews.

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Airport lounges

If you're looking for a more comfortable airport experience, you may want to consider purchasing access to an airport lounge. At Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), there are a few lounges to choose from, each offering a range of amenities to elevate your travel experience. Here's some information about the airport lounges available at MSY:

  • The Club MSY: This lounge is located airside, adjacent to the entrance of Concourse B. It offers complimentary refreshments, digital newspapers and magazines, and gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan food options. Access is permitted three hours before your scheduled flight departure, and children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. You can book your pass online in advance or pay at the door.
  • Delta SkyClub: This lounge is located adjacent to the entrance to Concourse C. While specific amenities and access information is not readily available, you can contact the airport directly to inquire about access and the services provided.
  • United Lounge: The United Lounge is located on Concourse C at Gate C5 or Gate C7. Similar to the Delta SkyClub, specific details about this lounge are not readily available on the airport's website. However, it is mentioned that you can access this lounge by paying at the door with proof of a United Airlines ticket or through lounge membership programs.
  • Military Lounge: The Military Lounge is a dedicated space for active military personnel with a valid military ID. It is open from 8 am to 8 pm Sunday through Thursday and 8 am to 4 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. This lounge offers free snacks and drinks, comfortable seating, charging stations, and luggage storage. It is located pre-security on Level 3 Ticketing, across from the Alaska Airlines Ticket Counter.

When considering access to airport lounges, it's important to note that booking and access policies may vary. Some lounges require advance booking, while others offer pay-at-the-door options. Additionally, keep in mind that food and beverage policies differ between lounges, with some offering complimentary refreshments and others requiring purchase. Always remember to carry a valid form of identification and, if required, proof of travel.

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Food options

If you're spending the night at the New Orleans Louis Armstrong International Airport, you'll be glad to know that there are 24-hour food options available.

Leah's Kitchen (Concourse C, Level 2 departures) is one of the best bets for a great meal at the airport. The restaurant pays homage to the late Leah Chase, a legendary New Orleans chef. The menu includes fried chicken, gumbo, red beans and rice, shrimp Creole, and Louisiana redfish. For a quick bite, try their Lucky Dogs stand, which serves the quintessential French Quarter street food (Concourse C/Gate C2).

If you're craving pizza, Midway Pizza serves deep-dish pizza and breakfast scramboli (Concourse C). For modern soul food, head to Munch Factory (Concourse C/Gate C6) for Creole gumbo, oysters Gentilly, bread pudding, roast beef debris po' boy, shrimp and grits, and the 'Voodoo Burger'.

For coffee and tea, there's PJ's Coffee and Tea, a local chain known for its iced coffee, granita, and espresso (Concourse C).

Outside of the airport, there are several restaurants within a 15-minute drive, including Banh Mi Boys (5001 Airline Drive Suite B), a tiny Vietnamese spot that offers traditional dishes with a New Orleans twist, such as vermicelli bowls, banh mi, and an oyster Rockefeller po' boy. Gendusa's Italian Eatery (325 Williams Blvd.) is another option for homestyle Italian cuisine in large portions. If you're looking for cheap and quick Vietnamese food, try Pho Orchid Express, which offers takeout banh mi.

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Security and privacy

If you plan to sleep in New Orleans Airport, there are several things you should keep in mind to ensure your security and privacy. Firstly, it is important to be aware of the potential risks involved in sleeping in any airport, especially when travelling alone. Here are some tips to enhance your security and privacy:

Safety First: Familiarise yourself with the layout of the airport and locate the security office. Try to sleep in an area that is under video surveillance. You can also ask security personnel for advice on the safest places to spend the night within the airport premises.

Stay in a Group: If you are travelling alone, it is advisable to stay near other travellers or in areas with a security presence. This can help deter potential thieves and provide a sense of security.

Secure Your Valuables: Keep your valuables out of sight and securely stored. It is recommended to keep important items, such as money, ID, and documents, close to your body, either in an inside pocket or a money belt.

Choose a Secure Location: The area past security is generally considered safer than the public areas like baggage claim and ticket counters. Consider finding a secluded spot, such as the Chapel room, to enhance your privacy. Additionally, look for a seating area near the airline counters, which may have employees present.

Stay Alert: While it is important to get rest, try to remain vigilant and keep an eye on your belongings. Sleeping in an airport may increase the risk of theft, so staying alert can help deter potential thieves.

While New Orleans Airport provides a relatively safe environment, taking these precautions can enhance your security and privacy during your overnight stay.

Frequently asked questions

Sleeping in any airport can be risky, especially when travelling alone. However, New Orleans Airport is no safer or unsafe than any other airport. It's important to take precautions to ensure your safety and the security of your valuables.

It's a good idea to know where the security office is located and try to sleep near security cameras. If you're travelling alone, stay near other travellers. Keep your valuables hidden and sleep with your money, ID and documents inside your clothing.

Yes, there are hotels near New Orleans Airport that provide free airport shuttles. There are also airport lounges that you can enter by paying at the door, purchasing a lounge pass or through a lounge membership program.

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