Roberta Aguirre
Spending the night at an airport can be a drag, and Austin Airport (AUS) isn't the most sleep-friendly place. While the airport itself stays open 24 hours a day, the TSA security checkpoints close after the last flight of the night, and there are no dedicated sleeping areas. If you're looking to sleep at the airport, you'll need to get in before security closes for the night, and even then, you may be moved landside when the checkpoints close. However, if you're not bothering anyone, you'll likely be left alone. If you're looking for uninterrupted sleep, there are hotels directly connected to the airport, and others nearby that provide free airport shuttles.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sleeping in the airport | Possible, but not recommended. No dedicated sleeping areas, quiet areas, or rest zones. |
| Sleeping in the Barbara Jordan Terminal | Only permitted for travellers with a late flight connecting to an early morning departure. |
| Sleeping in the South Terminal | Possible, but more basic. |
| Safety | No reports of safety issues, but sleeping in any airport can include a certain level of risk, especially when travelling alone. |
| Precautions | Stay near other travellers or close to security. Know where the security office is located and look for video cameras where you plan to sleep. Ask security personnel for advice on the safest places to sleep. |
| Shops and restaurants | Close overnight. |
| Vending machines | Available but lacking. |
| Food | A food truck is available at the South Terminal. |
| Seating | Available at the South Terminal. |
| Wi-Fi | Free for four hours through Boingo. |
| Charging stations | Available. |
| Lounges | Pay-to-access lounges are available for added comfort. |
| Hotels | A hotel is directly connected to the airport, and other nearby hotels are connected by shuttles. |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping in the airport vs. a hotel
Sleeping in an airport might be a good option if you have an early morning flight, a long layover, or a weather delay. It can also be a way to save money on accommodation. However, sleeping in an airport can be uncomfortable and may not provide a good night's rest. Airports are often noisy and crowded, with hard surfaces and bright lights that can make it difficult to sleep. Additionally, there may be safety concerns when sleeping in an airport, especially when travelling alone. It is important to take precautions such as knowing where the security office is located and staying near other travellers or close to security.
On the other hand, staying in a hotel near the airport can provide a more comfortable and restful experience. Hotels typically offer private rooms with comfortable beds, bathrooms, and other amenities such as room service or a swimming pool. Hotels also offer more privacy and security compared to sleeping in a public space like an airport.
In the case of Austin Airport (AUS), the airport is open 24 hours, but there are no dedicated sleeping areas, quiet areas, or rest zones. Travellers with a late flight connecting to an early morning departure may be permitted to sleep airside, but everyone else will be moved landside when the security checkpoints close. There are hotels directly connected to the airport or nearby that provide free airport shuttles, offering a more comfortable and convenient option for travellers who need a good night's rest.
When deciding between sleeping in the airport or a hotel, it is important to consider your budget, comfort level, and personal preferences. If you are on a tight budget and don't mind sleeping in a public space, sleeping in the airport may be a viable option. However, if you prioritize comfort, privacy, and a good night's sleep, staying in a hotel may be the better choice. Additionally, if you are travelling alone, staying in a hotel may provide a safer and more secure option.
Some travellers may choose to combine both options, especially if they have a long layover. For example, they may spend a few hours sleeping in the airport before checking into a hotel for a more comfortable rest, or vice versa. Ultimately, the decision between sleeping in the airport or a hotel depends on your individual needs and preferences.
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Safety precautions
If you're planning on sleeping in Austin Airport, there are a few safety precautions you should keep in mind. While there are no reports of safety issues at the airport, sleeping in any airport can come with risks, especially if you're travelling alone. Here are some tips to help ensure your safety:
Know the layout: Familiarize yourself with the airport layout, including the locations of the security office and security checkpoints. Knowing where to go in case of an emergency is crucial. Locate video cameras near your chosen sleeping spot, and consider asking security personnel for advice on the safest places to spend the night.
Stay in busy areas: If you're travelling solo, it's advisable to stay near other travellers or close to security. Avoid secluded areas, and try to stay in well-lit, busy spots where there is safety in numbers.
Keep your valuables secure: Airports are busy places, so always keep your valuables secure and within your sight. Consider investing in a money belt or a hidden pouch to safely store your passport, cash, and other important items.
Plan for comfort: While not directly related to safety, ensuring your comfort can make your experience much more pleasant. Bring items like a travel pillow, an eye mask, earplugs, and a light blanket to make your sleeping arrangement more comfortable.
Consider other options: If you're concerned about safety, consider booking a hotel room instead. There are hotels directly connected to the airport, as well as others nearby that provide free airport shuttles. These options might offer a more secure and comfortable night's rest.
By following these precautions and using your best judgment, you can enhance your safety and peace of mind when sleeping in Austin Airport.
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Food and drink options
While Austin Airport is open 24 hours, all shops and restaurants close overnight, so it is advisable to purchase food and drinks in advance. There are vending machines available, but they are not the best option. The South Terminal has an airside outdoor patio area with a food truck and plenty of seating. Indoors, there is free WiFi and charging stations, as well as grab-and-go snacks. For added comfort, economy-class passengers can pay to access first-class lounges in the Barbara Jordan Terminal.
If you are looking for a place to eat or drink near the airport, there are several options. The Live Old Brewing Company, located 1.5 miles from the airport, is a Texas brewhouse offering a range of beers. The Rainey Street Historic District, 6.7 miles from the airport, features converted bungalow bars and food trailers. For those seeking a hotel with dining options, the Hilton and Hyatt are on-site hotels that offer day rates for rooms. These hotels provide shuttle services to and from the airport. Additionally, there are various lounges accessible through lounge membership programs or by paying at the door. These include the American Airlines Admirals Club, located across from Gate 22, the Delta Sky Club near Gates 2 and 4, and the United Club on the Mezzanine Level across from Gate 22.
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TSA security checkpoints
While Austin Airport is open 24 hours, the TSA security checkpoints open at approximately 3:00 AM and close after the last flights. There are four TSA security checkpoints at the Barbara Jordan Terminal, all leading to the gates. The average wait time at these checkpoints is around 25 minutes, but during peak hours, travellers may have to wait up to 40 minutes. To expedite the entry process, passengers can use Automated Passport Control Kiosks and Global Entry kiosks.
Passengers who have already checked in before the closure of the security checkpoints will be required to move to the landside area after the departure of the last flight. Access to the airside is granted once the TSA security checkpoints reopen. Only passengers with a late connecting flight are allowed to stay airside overnight.
TSA is required to screen everyone, regardless of age. For children under 12, refer to the TSA's guidelines on travelling with children. Pets will also need to be presented to Security Officers at the checkpoint. Owners can walk their animals through the metal detector, but if this is not possible, pets will need to undergo a secondary screening, including a visual and physical inspection. Owners may be asked to remove their pet from its carrier so that the carrier can be placed on the X-Ray machine.
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Lounges and entertainment
While Austin Airport does not have dedicated sleeping areas, there are a few lounges and entertainment options available for passengers looking for a comfortable place to relax or rest.
First-class lounges in the Barbara Jordan Terminal can be accessed by economy-class passengers for a fee. Lounge membership programs or pay-at-the-door options are also available for lounges such as the American Airlines Admirals Club, Delta Sky Club, and United Club. These lounges can be found near Gates 22, 2, 4, and 1, respectively.
For those seeking uninterrupted sleep, there are hotels directly connected to the airport, including the Hilton and Hyatt, which offer day rates and free airport shuttles. Other nearby hotels also provide airport shuttle services.
If you choose to stay in the airport, it is recommended to arrive before the security checkpoints close for the night. While the airport is open 24 hours, the TSA security checkpoints typically open around 3:00 AM and close after the last flights.
Free WiFi is available for up to four hours through Boingo, and you can find complimentary hydration stations on the ticketed side of the terminal. There are also charging stations available in both terminals.
Keep in mind that all shops and restaurants close overnight, so it is advisable to purchase drinks and snacks beforehand. The South Terminal offers an airside outdoor patio area with a food truck and seating.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can sleep in the airport terminal. However, if approached by airport staff, you will need to show proof of a flight to avoid being kicked out. There are no dedicated sleeping areas, quiet areas or rest zones, but there are informal spots around the terminal.
Yes, there are hotels near Austin Airport that provide free airport shuttles. There is also a hotel directly connected to the airport.
It's a good idea to know where the security office is located and look for video cameras where you plan to sleep. You can also ask security personnel for advice on the safest places to spend the night. If you're travelling alone, stay near other travellers or close to security.
Austin Airport offers ample dining and shopping options for travellers. There are also charging stations and free WiFi available for up to four hours.
