Owais Crawford
Spending the night at an airport is not an uncommon occurrence, especially for travellers with early morning flights or long layovers. While some airports close at night, many remain open 24 hours a day, and travellers are generally permitted to sleep in the airport overnight. However, this can depend on the airport, and some may require a valid boarding pass for entry. Additionally, travellers may be asked to justify their presence at the airport, so it is important to keep travel documents on hand. Sleeping at the airport may not be the most comfortable option, but it can be made more bearable with some advance planning, such as bringing noise-cancelling headphones, an eye mask, and warm accessories. For those seeking a more comfortable option, airport lounges and hotels are available, although these often come with additional costs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Staying overnight at the airport | Generally permitted, but discouraged. Some airports close at night. |
| Sleeping in airport lounges | Requires a same-day boarding pass. Access rules often prevent entry more than 3 hours before departure. |
| Sleeping in secure zones | Often more comfortable and safer. May require justification to airport security. |
| Sleeping in non-secure zones | May require justification to airport security. |
| Staying multiple nights | Strongly frowned upon. |
| Staying at the airport during the day | Allowed unless the airport is closed. |
| Staying at the airport before a flight | Possible, but not recommended. |
| Staying at the airport with luggage | Inconvenient for sightseeing. |
| Staying at a hotel during a layover | Possible, but may be expensive. |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping in airports
Spending the night at an airport due to a long layover or flight cancellation is not an uncommon occurrence. While it may not be the most comfortable option, it is possible to sleep in an airport overnight.
Firstly, it is important to note that sleeping in the airport before a flight is typically permitted, but spending multiple nights is generally frowned upon. Airports may even kick you out if you attempt to do this. Additionally, you will likely not be allowed to go through security until the day of your flight. Many airports close at least the airside areas overnight, so this is something to be aware of.
If you are planning to sleep in the airport, it is recommended that you research the specific airport beforehand. Some airports close overnight, so it is crucial to know this in advance. Websites like Sleeping in Airports provide valuable information and tips for sleeping in airports, including airport-specific guides and reviews from travellers.
When it comes to finding a place to sleep, not all airport benches are created equal. Some airports offer sleep pods or minute suites, which are small rooms with beds that can be rented by the hour. These can be a good option if you want more privacy and comfort. If you have access to a lounge, consider purchasing a day pass as many lounges have quiet rooms and other amenities like showers, food, and coffee. Alternatively, if you are travelling with a group, you may want to consider splitting the cost of a hotel room near the airport, especially if it is more affordable than the airport options.
Lastly, if you find yourself with a long layover and the option to leave the airport, you may want to consider sightseeing or finding a more comfortable place to rest outside the airport.
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Airport lounges
Priority Pass, for example, offers access to 1,700+ lounges and travel experiences worldwide. As a member, you can enjoy complimentary drinks, refreshments, and pre-flight bites, as well as charging points and free Wi-Fi. Priority Pass lounges also offer a great space to work, with some even providing conference rooms for business meetings. To make the most of your time, it is recommended to arrive early and indulge in the various spa treatments available at select lounges.
Similarly, oneworld provides exclusive access to premium airport lounges for its Emerald and Sapphire tier frequent flyers. These members can enjoy the calming and vibrant spaces of branded lounges in Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) and Seoul-Incheon International Airport (ICN), as well as over 600 lounges worldwide. First Class and Business Class passengers flying with any oneworld member airline may also access these lounges, with Emerald tier members having access to First Class, Business Class, or frequent flyer lounges. Additionally, Emerald and Sapphire members can invite one guest who is also travelling on a oneworld flight.
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On-site airport hotels
One notable example of an on-site airport hotel is the InterContinental Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport Hotel, which boasts a convenient skybridge connection to Terminal 1 at the Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport. Guests can take advantage of the hotel's own TSA security checkpoint and direct access to Gate C25. The hotel features 291 luxurious rooms, including two extravagant suites, along with signature restaurants, a cocktail bar, and flexible event spaces.
Another renowned on-site airport hotel is the TWA Hotel at New York's JFK Airport. This hotel offers a unique experience with its 1958 Constellation airplane turned cocktail lounge, exuding the glamour of the Sixties. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a rooftop infinity pool, a 10,000-square-foot fitness centre, and the Paris Café by Jean-Georges, serving delicious meals throughout the day.
The Westin Denver International Airport is another highly-rated on-site airport hotel, featuring sleek rooms with soundproof windows and flat-screen TVs, offering views of the runway and mountains. Guests can indulge in the grill restaurant, coffee shop, and bar with runway views. The hotel also provides a business centre, an indoor lap pool, and a hot tub for guests' convenience and relaxation.
Additionally, the Los Angeles Airport Marriott, located near LAX airport, offers oversized guest rooms and suites with soundproof windows and premium bedding. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a resort-style pool, a 24-hour gym, and the exclusive M Club lounge. With complimentary shuttle services and EV charging stations, the Los Angeles Airport Marriott provides a convenient and comfortable stay for travellers.
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Leaving the airport during a layover
Whether you can leave the airport during a layover depends on several factors, including the length of the layover, the immigration laws of your destination, and the baggage handling procedures of your airline.
Firstly, consider the length of your layover. While it is generally possible to exit and re-enter the airport during a layover, doing so may not be feasible if you have limited time. You need to account for the time it takes to deboard the plane, exit the airport, secure transportation, visit your desired locations, and then return to the airport, go through security, and find your departure gate. It is recommended to be back at the airport at least two to three hours before your connecting flight to allow for any unexpected delays.
Secondly, the immigration laws of your layover destination will determine whether you are permitted to leave the airport. Some countries require travel visas for entry, so you would need to obtain the necessary visa beforehand. Additionally, if you are transiting through a country that requires you to clear customs, you will need to factor in additional time for this process.
Lastly, the baggage handling procedures of your airline can impact your ability to leave the airport during a layover. If your baggage is transferred directly from one plane to another, you can explore the local area with just your carry-on luggage. However, if you need to collect your checked baggage before going through customs, it may be less convenient to venture out, especially if you have multiple suitcases to manage.
To make the most of your layover, consider booking an airport hotel, especially for overnight layovers, to get some rest before your next flight. Some airlines even offer stopover programs for travellers who want to spend more time exploring their layover destination. Remember to stay updated on any travel delays or changes to your flight to avoid missing your connection.
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Tips for sleeping in airports
While sleeping in an airport may not be the most glamorous experience, it is sometimes necessary. Here are some tips to help make your airport sleepover more tolerable:
Do Your Research
Websites like Sleeping in Airports provide valuable insights and reviews from fellow travellers on the best spots to sleep in various airports. Some airports even have "quiet" rooms or lounges with showers, food, and coffee. Knowing what amenities are available can help you prepare and make your experience more comfortable.
Plan Ahead
If you know you'll need to sleep in the airport, bring the necessary gear, such as an eye mask, earplugs, a pillow, and maybe even a small tent or blow-up mattress if you have the space in your luggage. You can also consider booking a day pass to a lounge or an airport hotel for a more comfortable rest.
Be Considerate and Aware
Be mindful of your fellow travellers and airport rules. Don't take up too much space, and keep your belongings with you at all times. Loop your bag's straps around your body or place your feet on top of your luggage to deter potential thieves.
Get Creative
If you didn't come prepared with sleeping gear, get creative with what you have. Use your jacket or a scarf as an eye mask, or ask around for earplugs. If you're travelling with a group, consider taking shifts so that someone can always keep an eye on your belongings while others rest.
Stay Flexible
Sleeping in an airport can be unpredictable. Be prepared to change your plans if needed. If you're travelling with others, splitting the cost of a hotel room or airport lounge pass can be a more comfortable alternative.
Remember, every airport is unique, and your experience may vary. Always check the specific rules and regulations of the airport you'll be staying in, and be respectful of other travellers and airport staff.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can stay at an airport for a day, but it is generally discouraged. You can stay landside as long as the airport doesn't close at night or security personnel kicks you out.
Yes, you can sleep at the airport. Airports can be very cold, bright, and loud, so it is recommended to bring noise-canceling headphones, an eye mask, and warm accessories.
It depends on the airport. Some airports require a valid boarding pass with travel planned within 24 hours to sleep in the secure zone.
Yes, some airports have on-site hotels or transit hotels located within the secure area of the airport. Additionally, airport lounges offer more comfortable couches and even showers.
You may have to justify your presence at the airport to security personnel, so keep your tickets and other travel documents at the ready. Some airports close at night, so check the operating hours of the airport before planning your stay.
