Jazmin Li
Sleeping in an airport lounge overnight may be an option for travellers with long layovers or unexpected delays. While not all airports are 24 hours, many have facilities to support travellers who need to sleep, including 24/7 lounges, sleep pods, quiet zones, and nearby hotels. Websites like SleepingInAirports.net provide airport guides and reviews from travellers who have slept in airports, while travellers with Priority Pass can access Minute Suites for free for one hour and pay for additional hours. To prepare for sleeping in an airport, travellers should bring essentials like blankets, eye shades, earplugs, and pillows, as well as a portable alarm to ensure they don't miss their flight.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Airport Lounges | Some airport lounges provide semi-private sleeping spaces that offer the closest experience to a real bed. Lounges typically offer a more comfortable and quiet environment than the bustling main terminal, with amenities like comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, and sometimes even shower facilities. |
| Airport Rules and Hours | Not all airports are 24 hours and some will have security kick travellers out at night. It is important to check the airport's website or call them before your trip to make sure. |
| Sleeping Essentials | If you plan to sleep in an airport overnight, bring essentials such as a blanket, eye shades, earplugs and a pillow (or use some of your clothes for a makeshift one). |
| Sleeping Spots | Look for designated sleeping areas or quiet zones within the airport. Opt for locations with minimal foot traffic to avoid disturbances, but remain within well-populated areas for safety. |
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What You'll Learn
Airport lounges may offer a more comfortable and quiet environment
While sleeping in an airport may not be the most comfortable option, airport lounges may offer a more comfortable and quiet environment than the main terminal. Lounges typically provide comfortable seating, and some even have reclining chairs, sleeping pods, or private rooms. For example, the Qatar Airways Al Safwa First Lounge in Doha and the Turkish Airlines Lounge in Istanbul offer private rooms. Some lounges also provide complimentary food and drinks, and some may even have shower facilities.
Airport lounges can be a great option for a quieter place to rest, with fewer airport announcements. However, not all lounges allow sleeping, and some may only be accessible with a business class ticket or a lounge membership such as Priority Pass, Amex Platinum, etc.
If you don't have access to a lounge, there are other options for sleeping in an airport. Some airports provide free reclining chairs or designated sleep zones, and websites like SleepingInAirports.net can help you find the best spots. It's important to remember that not all airports are 24 hours, and security may ask you to leave at night. Checking the airport's website or calling them before your trip can ensure you know their rules and hours.
Additionally, some airports have quiet areas with long seats like recliners, and child play areas can also be good spots to sleep, as they are often out of the way and have softer foam-padded flooring. If you plan to sleep in an airport, bring essentials such as a blanket, eye shades, earplugs, and a pillow, or use your clothes as a makeshift pillow.
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Some airports close at night
While some airports operate 24 hours a day, others close at night. For example, LaGuardia Airport in New York closes between midnight and 3 am, and Singapore shuts many of its duty-free shops at night.
Some airports close their control towers overnight, while others have curfews, customs hours, or simply close to traffic. Even airports that remain open can be noisy and uncomfortable, with cleaning crews, overhead announcements, and constant bright lights.
If you plan to sleep in an airport overnight, it is advisable to bring essentials such as a blanket, eye shades, earplugs, and a pillow. Websites like SleepingInAirports.net can help you find the best spots at airports around the world to get some rest. Some 24-hour airline lounges will let you sleep inside, and these can be quieter, with fewer announcements. However, some airports do not permit overnight guests and may ask you to leave, so it is always good to check the airport's rules and hours in advance.
Sleeping in airports is generally safe, but there have been reports of minor thefts and assaults. It is recommended to take the usual precautions one would take when sleeping in public places, and there is safety in numbers, so try to find other airport sleepers if you are travelling alone.
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Tips for sleeping in an airport overnight
Sleeping in an airport overnight may not be the most comfortable experience, but it is possible. Here are some tips to make it a little easier:
Before you go to the airport:
- Check if the airport is open 24 hours. Not all airports are, and security may ask you to leave at night.
- Research the airport layout and facilities. Websites like SleepingInAirports.net provide guides and reviews from travellers who have slept in airports, detailing the best spots to get some rest.
- Pack the essentials: a blanket, eye mask or shades, earplugs, and a pillow, or use your clothes as a makeshift pillow.
When you arrive at the airport:
- Look for a quiet area away from the crowds and announcements, such as a chapel or religious service area, or a child play area.
- If you have access to an airline lounge, especially one that is open 24 hours, take advantage of it. Some lounges offer private rooms or quiet spaces for resting or sleeping.
- Be considerate of other travellers. Avoid taking up too much space, and be mindful of your surroundings and your belongings.
If you need a more comfortable option:
- Some airports have in-terminal hotels, which can be convenient if you don't want to leave the secure area or go through immigration.
- Alternatively, there may be airport hotels nearby, but these may require you to pass through immigration and can be more expensive.
- Consider a day pass to a lounge with showers, food, and other amenities, or look into options like Minute Suites, which offer rooms with beds and TVs.
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Airports with the best sleeping spots
Sleeping in an airport may not be the most comfortable option, but it can be a great way to save money on accommodation, especially if you have a long layover, a flight delay, or a cancellation. Some airports even have various facilities to support travellers who need to sleep. Here are some airports with the best sleeping spots:
Doha Hamad International Airport, Qatar
Doha Hamad International Airport in Qatar has been praised by travellers for its quiet areas with long, recliner-like seats. It is also known for its cleanliness and lack of ongoing public announcements. Additionally, the airport hotel does not require travellers to leave the secure area or go through immigration, making it a convenient option for those with layovers.
Istanbul Airport, Turkey
Istanbul Airport in Turkey offers a variety of options for travellers looking for a place to rest. The airport features an in-terminal hotel, which means travellers don't have to leave the secure area. Additionally, the Turkish Airlines Lounge offers private rooms, providing a quieter and more comfortable place to sleep.
Seoul Incheon International Airport, South Korea
Seoul Incheon International Airport has been mentioned by travellers as a great place to get some rest. For around $25, travellers can access shower facilities and comfortable sleeping areas.
Helsinki Airport, Finland
Helsinki Airport has been recommended by travellers for its affordable in-terminal hotel. The hotel offers easy access to downtown Helsinki, providing a convenient option for those with long layovers who want to explore the city.
Minute Suites
Minute Suites is not an airport, but it is worth mentioning as an alternative option for travellers looking for a quiet place to rest. Minute Suites sells access to rooms with a bed and TV, priced based on the length of stay. This can be a great choice for travellers with Priority Pass, as they can access the rooms for free for the first hour.
When sleeping in an airport, it is important to consider the airport's rules and hours, as not all airports allow overnight stays. Additionally, bringing essentials such as a blanket, eye shades, earplugs, and a pillow can make your airport sleep more comfortable.
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What to bring if you plan to sleep in an airport overnight
Sleeping in an airport overnight may not be the most comfortable experience, but it can be made bearable with some planning and preparation. Here are some essential items to bring if you plan to sleep in an airport overnight:
Comfort and Convenience
To make your airport sleep as comfortable as possible, consider bringing a travel pillow and a light blanket. A memory foam pillow can be especially useful for regulating your body temperature and providing neck support. If you don't have a travel pillow, you can use your clothes as a makeshift pillow or use your luggage as a footrest. Additionally, a weighted blanket can help you fall asleep faster and provide insulation from the floor. Some airports provide blankets, but it's always good to come prepared.
Blocking Out Light and Noise
Airports are bustling environments with constant announcements, bright lights, and people coming and going. To create a more peaceful sleeping environment, bring an eye mask or eyeshades to block out the light. For noise cancellation, consider earplugs or noise-canceling headphones. If you prefer, you can also use headphones to play white noise or soft music to help you relax and fall asleep.
Personal Care and Hygiene
It's important to maintain your personal care and hygiene even when sleeping in an airport. Bring a small toiletry kit with essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste, face wipes, and any other personal care items you may need to feel refreshed after your nap.
Safety and Security
Always keep your valuables, like your wallet and phone, on your person to prevent theft. Keep your larger carry-on luggage with you as well, and consider using a luggage lock for added security. If you need to carry a lot of items, some airports offer short-term storage options. Additionally, try to choose a sleeping spot that is well-populated for safety while being away from high-traffic areas to minimize disturbances.
Information and Alternatives
Before your trip, check the airport's website or give them a call to inquire about their overnight policies and hours. Some airports close at night, so it's essential to know if you need to make alternative arrangements. Understand the layout of the airport and the amenities available, such as nearby hotels or sleep pods, in case you need a backup plan. Websites like SleepingInAirports.net provide valuable information and reviews from other travellers who have experienced sleeping in various airports.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the airport's rules and hours. Some airports close at night, so you might need to find another place to rest. It's always a good idea to check the airport's website or call them before your trip to make sure.
If the main areas close early, you might still be able to rest in the check-in area or near the baggage claim. Keep your ticket and ID with you in case you need to show that you're supposed to be there.
Yes, some airports have in-terminal airport hotels that don't require travellers to leave the secure area or go through immigration. Alternatively, you can access Minute Suites, which sells access to rooms with a bed and TV, priced based on the length of your stay.
Airports can get chilly at night, so bring a blanket or a large scarf to keep warm. You should also bring eye shades, earplugs, and a portable alarm to ensure you wake up in time for your flight.
