Memphis Airport Overnight Stay: Is It Possible?

can i stay at memphis airport overnight

If you're planning an overnight stay at Memphis Airport, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, while it is possible to spend the night at the airport, it tends to be exceptionally loud due to ongoing renovations, overnight cleaning crews, and early-morning aircraft traffic. You'll also need to stay in the public area once the security checkpoints close for the night, and comfortable seating may be limited. However, free WiFi is available, and there are 24-hour food options and shops where you can purchase essentials. If you're looking for a more comfortable option, there are hotels near the airport, some of which provide free shuttles for their guests. The surrounding area has been described as seedy, but there are recommendations for hotels in East Memphis, which is considered a nicer area.

Characteristics Values
Staying overnight at Memphis Airport Possible
Sleeping accommodations Free resting zones with comfortable seats inside the main building; limited comfortable seating in the landside area
Noise level Noisy at all times due to ongoing renovations, overnight cleaning crews, and early morning aircraft traffic; bring earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones
Safety Risks include theft and feeling unsafe in the surrounding area; take precautions such as knowing where the security office is, staying near other travellers or security, and hiding valuables
Food options Eateries are available on both sides of security, but most close early in the evening
Other amenities Free WiFi, mobile charging points, lockers, 24-hour food options, nearby hotels, currency exchange, retail shops, live music, luggage carts
Nearby hotels Clarion Hotel & Suites Conference Center Memphis Airport, Extended Stay America Suites - Memphis - Airport, Quality Inn Airport I-240, Comfort Inn Airport, La Quinta by Wyndham Memphis Airport Graceland, Doubletree in East Memphis, Guest House at Graceland

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Sleeping arrangements: padded seats, sleeping bags, and hotels nearby

If you're looking to stay overnight at Memphis Airport, there are a few options to consider in terms of sleeping arrangements.

Firstly, the airport itself does offer padded seats and free resting zones. These can be found near the gates, but comfortable seating in the landside areas may be limited. It is worth noting that the terminal can be cold and noisy, so bringing a sleeping bag, travel blanket, and earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones is recommended. Additionally, for safety, it is important to keep valuables secure and consider staying near other travellers or close to security.

If you prefer more privacy and comfort, there are hotels located near the airport that provide accommodation options. Some recommended hotels include the Clarion Hotel & Suites Conference Center Memphis Airport, Extended Stay America Suites - Memphis - Airport, Quality Inn Airport I-240, Comfort Inn Airport, and La Quinta by Wyndham Memphis Airport Graceland. These hotels are within a few kilometres of the airport and may offer free shuttle services for guests. However, it is always a good idea to confirm the availability of shuttle services, especially for late-night or early morning travel.

For those seeking a more cost-effective option, staying at the airport by finding a comfortable spot in one of the big comfy chairs might be preferable. While there is a possibility that you won't be kicked out, it is not guaranteed, and you would need to remain within the security checkpoint.

Lastly, if you're looking for a hotel in a nicer area with dining options and easy interstate access, consider hotels in east Memphis around I-240/Poplar Ave. While the airport area might be less desirable due to safety concerns, east Memphis offers a more pleasant and convenient experience.

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Safety: be aware of valuables, seclusion, and security

If you're planning to stay overnight at Memphis Airport, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to safety, valuables, seclusion, and security. Firstly, be aware that the airport can be noisy at all times, with ongoing renovations, overnight cleaning crews, and early-morning aircraft traffic contributing to the noise level. Consider bringing earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones to ensure you can get some uninterrupted sleep.

To ensure the security of your valuables, it's important to keep them out of plain view. Don't leave valuable items unattended, as this could make you a target for theft. If you're a deep sleeper, consider padlocking your bag to something secure or sleeping with your bag up against a wall to make it more difficult for someone to access your belongings.

When it comes to seclusion, it's generally not recommended to isolate yourself, especially if you're travelling alone. Try to stay near other travellers or close to security personnel, as this can help deter potential thieves and make you feel more secure. Additionally, it's a good idea to know where the security office is located and look for video cameras in the area where you plan to sleep. You can also ask security staff for advice on the safest places to spend the night.

While there are some comfortable seating options inside the main terminal, you may want to bring a sleeping bag or travel blanket for enhanced comfort. Keep in mind that security checkpoints close at night, restricting passengers to the landside areas until the checkpoints reopen the next day.

If you're considering alternative accommodation near the airport, be cautious about the surrounding area. Some sources suggest that the hotels and motels nearby can be "treacherous", "sketchy", and "seedy". However, there are recommendations for safer options a little further away, such as in East Memphis or Southaven. These areas offer nicer accommodations and dining options, and some hotels provide free shuttle services to and from the airport.

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Noise: bring earplugs or headphones to block out noise

If you plan to stay overnight at Memphis Airport, be aware that it can be exceptionally noisy at all times. Due to ongoing renovations, overnight cleaning crews, and early-morning aircraft traffic, the terminal is often loud.

To ensure you get a good night's sleep, it is highly recommended that you bring earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones to block out the noise. While there are some comfortable seats inside the main building, the terminal can also be cold, so it is advisable to bring a sleeping bag or travel blanket for added comfort.

If you are a light sleeper, you may want to consider alternative options, such as nearby hotels that offer free shuttles for their guests. Some recommended hotels include the Clarion Hotel & Suites Conference Center Memphis Airport, Extended Stay America Suites - Memphis - Airport, and Quality Inn Airport I-240. These hotels are located within a few kilometres of the airport and provide a safer and more comfortable option for your overnight stay.

Additionally, if you decide to stay at the airport, be sure to take necessary precautions for your safety and the security of your valuables. Know where the security office is located and try to stay near other travellers or close to security. Hide your valuables and consider padlocking your bag to something or sleeping with your bag against a wall to deter potential thieves.

What to Carry to the Airport?

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Transport: taxis, Ubers, Lyft, and shuttles are available

If you're looking for transport options to or from Memphis Airport, there are several choices available to you, including taxis, Ubers, Lyft, and shuttles.

Taxis are readily available at the airport, and you can hail one at the designated pick-up areas. If you prefer ride-sharing services, both Uber and Lyft operate in Memphis. You can use their respective apps to request a ride and be on your way in no time.

For those seeking a more economical option, consider the shuttle services offered by certain hotels in the area. These shuttles provide free transportation to and from the airport for their guests. You can make reservations for these shuttles ahead of time using the courtesy phones located in the luggage reclaim area. Some hotels that offer shuttle services include the Guest House at Graceland, Doubletree in East Memphis, and Clarion Hotel & Suites Conference Center Memphis Airport.

It's worth noting that while these transport options are generally reliable, some travellers have reported challenges with late-night rides. In particular, one traveller mentioned that they missed their flight due to a late-arriving taxi, which resulted in additional costs. Therefore, it is recommended to plan ahead and allow for sufficient time when arranging transportation, especially during busy periods or when travelling during off-peak hours.

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Food: 24-hour food options and vending machines

If you're spending the night at Memphis Airport, you'll have access to a range of 24-hour food options and vending machines.

Firstly, there are almost 30 eateries within the airport, including simple snack kiosks, cafes, takeaways, grille bars, and sit-down restaurants. Most eateries are clustered in Terminal B, but you can also find food options in Terminals A and C, as well as at the Ticket Lobby and within the Passenger Connector.

For a quick bite, try one of the vending machines, which offer a range of snacks and beverages. If you're looking for something more substantial, there are a number of full-service restaurants with grab-and-go options, including cheese danish, pastries, sandwiches, and breakfast options.

Some specific restaurant recommendations include Ramblin' Joe's, which is located just past the security checkpoint and offers coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. Chick-fil-A, located in the rotunda, is known for its efficient service, so you can be confident you won't miss your flight. Another option is Grizz Grill, located between gates 14 and 16, which serves up classic game-time favourites like buffalo wings, BBQ, and burgers, along with local craft beers.

If you're craving something more upscale, Memphis Made Brewing Co., located between gates 3 and 5, offers a range of craft beers and a full menu of salads, appetizers, BBQ, sandwiches, and burgers. They also have a breakfast menu and ample seating, making it a great option for those looking for a comfortable place to wait out a delay.

For early morning departures, Starbucks is an option, opening at 4:00 a.m. and serving coffee, tea, juice, breakfast items, bakery goods, sandwiches, and snacks.

No matter your taste or dietary preferences, Memphis Airport has a variety of 24-hour food options and vending machines to choose from, ensuring you won't go hungry during your overnight stay.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, you can stay at the airport overnight. However, due to ongoing renovations, overnight cleaning crews and early morning aircraft traffic, the terminal can be exceptionally loud. You may want to consider booking a hotel for a good night's sleep.

It is recommended that you bring earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones to block out the noise. It can get cold, so bring a sleeping bag or travel blanket. There is padded seating near the gates, but comfortable seating may be limited.

Yes, there are several hotels near the airport, including the Holiday Inn Memphis Airport Hotel & Conference Center, La Quinta Inn & Suites Memphis Airport Graceland, and the Courtyard by Marriott Memphis Airport.

Sleeping in any airport can be risky, especially when travelling alone. It is recommended to stay near other travellers or close to security. Keep your valuables hidden and out of plain view. Know where the security office is located and look for video cameras where you plan to sleep.

TSA opens at 4 am, and you can't go through security more than four hours before your flight.

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