Ruth Haines
Being stranded in an airport is not ideal, but it happens. The good news is that you can survive an airport delay without breaking the bank. Here are some tips to survive in an airport: always carry a collapsible water bottle, carry snacks, do light yoga to relax, carry earplugs to block out the noise, and get in touch with a contact at the airport to know what's going on. If you're stranded overnight, consider buying a day pass to an airport lounge to access food, showers, and Wi-Fi.
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What You'll Learn
Get comfortable and rest
Getting comfortable and resting in an airport can be challenging, but there are some strategies you can use to make the most of your time and get some much-needed relaxation.
Firstly, if you have a long layover, consider paying for access to an airport lounge. Lounges often offer a quiet space to relax, with comfortable seating, food, drinks, and even showers. Some lounges have bookable resting rooms, and you can usually enjoy these amenities without the constant sales pitches of the main airport. If you are flying with an airline that operates a lounge, you may be able to purchase a single-visit pass, which can be a worthwhile investment for a long layover. Alternatively, some airports have public lounges that offer similar amenities.
If you are travelling as part of a group, establishing a 'guard shift' roster can help you feel more comfortable and relaxed. Taking turns to keep an eye on your belongings allows the others to rest or explore the airport, and the 'guard' can also keep an ear out for any important updates regarding your travel.
If you are travelling alone, it is important to keep your valuables secure. A lightweight, insulated jacket is a useful item to have in your luggage, as it can serve multiple purposes. You can use it for warmth, drape it over yourself as a makeshift blanket, or roll it up as a pillow. The pockets are also a great place to secure your valuables while you rest.
To aid your comfort and ability to rest, it is a good idea to bring some familiar items from your bedtime routine, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, and a travel-size bottle of your favourite moisturiser or lotion. Keeping some of your normal routine will give you a sense of control and help you feel more relaxed, which is important for your peace of mind.
Lastly, if you have a very long layover or an overnight stay, consider booking a hotel. A proper bed, a private shower, and a quiet space can make all the difference to your comfort and rest, and you can avoid the bright lights and noise of the airport for a while.
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Keep your valuables safe
Keeping your valuables safe at an airport is crucial, as you may encounter theft or damage to your belongings. Here are some tips to ensure your valuables remain secure:
Firstly, always keep your valuables on your person. In most countries, you are allowed to carry mobile phones, laptops, tablet devices, MP3 players, certain electronics, and important documents in your hand luggage. Keeping these items with you reduces the risk of them being stolen or lost during loading, unloading, or baggage claim. If possible, secure your carry-on luggage in the bins across from your seat, so you can keep a close eye on them.
Secondly, utilise a money belt to keep cash, important documents, and other valuables safe. These belts can be discreetly worn under clothing, providing a hidden compartment for your possessions. If you do use a money belt, remember to remove it before going through security and store it in your hand luggage. Then, once through security, find a private space to put it back on.
Additionally, consider "hiding in plain sight" by placing your valuables in a clear plastic bag within your carry-on. This method may deter potential thieves, as the contents are visible, and it also allows you to quickly check if anything is missing. Alternatively, designate an obvious pocket in your carry-on specifically for valuables, making it easier to access and monitor these items.
When going through security, stay vigilant and organised. Remove any large electrical devices and place them in a separate, easily accessible pocket for X-ray screening. Keep your boarding pass and ID handy, and try to avoid being separated from your hand luggage. If you must place your carry-on in the overhead bins, use a lock to secure it, and consider wrapping your checked baggage to deter pilfering.
Finally, if travelling in a group, consider establishing a guard shift for your belongings, especially in well-lit major airports. This may seem excessive, but it provides an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
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Find a charging station
Finding a charging station is crucial when you're stuck at an airport for hours. You can find charging stations for your electronic devices throughout the airport, including at gate areas, restaurants, and baggage claim levels. Look out for "power up" signage or ask airport staff for directions.
Some airports, such as Charlotte Douglas International Airport, provide charging stations with outlets and USB ports in concourses and concession areas. Denver International Airport also has hundreds of power outlets and charging stations with seating and workspaces throughout the terminal and concourses.
If you're at LaGuardia Airport or Newark Liberty International Airport, you'll find it easy to locate power outlets and charging stations, many of which have USB ports. John F. Kennedy International Airport has dozens of outlets and spacious workstations with stools and tabletops near the gates.
When using airport charging stations, be cautious about data theft and malware attacks. The FBI warns that no public phone charging stations are entirely safe from hackers. To protect your data, use a power-only USB cable or connect a USB data blocker like the Juice-Jack Defender or PortaPow USB Data Blocker. These devices ensure that only power is transferred between the charging station and your device, blocking any potential malware or data theft.
While finding a charging station is essential, don't let the fear of data theft keep you from making the most of your time at the airport. As one traveler noted, the airport is a "parallel dimension" where strange behaviours, like "sitting on linoleum tethered to an electrical outlet," become the norm.
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Know your rights as a passenger
Being stranded in an airport is never ideal, but knowing your rights as a passenger can help you navigate the situation. Here are some key points to be aware of:
Delays and Cancellations:
In the European Union, if your flight is delayed or cancelled, you have certain rights to compensation and assistance under EU 261 regulations. You are entitled to meals, refreshments, and communication facilities (such as free telephone calls, emails, or faxes) if your flight is delayed. The specific entitlements depend on the length of the delay and the flight distance. For example, a delay of two hours or more for flights of 1,500km or less may trigger these rights.
If your flight is cancelled with less than 14 days' notice, you may be eligible for compensation. However, compensation may not be provided if the cancellation was due to extraordinary circumstances beyond the airline's control, such as severe weather, political unrest, or air traffic control strikes.
Denied Boarding:
If you are denied boarding, your flight is cancelled, or you experience a significant delay, the airline must provide you with a written notice outlining the rules for compensation and assistance. This notice should be displayed at the airport check-in desk, check-in kiosks, and online.
Assistance and Reimbursement:
You have the right to assistance and, in some cases, reimbursement for expenses. If assistance is not offered and you incur reasonable expenses for meals, refreshments, or accommodation, the airline should reimburse you upon providing valid receipts.
In some cases, the airline may limit or decline assistance to avoid causing further delays to other passengers. However, you can still claim your rights and seek reimbursement or other forms of compensation.
International Flights:
International flights involving countries that are signatories to the Montreal Convention, including the EU and the US, offer protection for passengers under this convention. This includes compensation for delays, cancellations, and lost or damaged baggage, up to specified limits.
Comfort and Convenience:
While not a legal right, your comfort and convenience are important. Consider purchasing a day pass to an airport lounge, which often provides showers, food, and comfortable seating. Alternatively, if you prefer more privacy and comfort, booking a hotel near the airport can be a good option, especially if you anticipate a long delay.
Additionally, basic items like earplugs, a lightweight jacket, and travel-size toiletries can go a long way toward making your unexpected stay more bearable.
Remember, knowing your rights is essential, but they may vary depending on your location and the specific circumstances. Always review the relevant regulations and stay informed about any updates or changes.
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Bring carry-on essentials
Being stranded in an airport is never ideal, but it happens. Here are some carry-on essentials to help you survive if you ever find yourself in this situation:
- Water bottle: Bring a collapsible or empty water bottle and fill it up at a water fountain or bottle filling station once you're through security. Staying hydrated is important, especially if you're facing a long wait at the airport.
- Snacks: Pack some on-the-go snacks to keep your energy levels up. While you may have to buy airport food eventually if your wait is long enough, having some snacks on hand can help you save money and ensure you don't go hungry.
- Entertainment: Delays can be a great opportunity to catch up on reading, watching movies or shows, or listening to podcasts. Make sure you have something to keep yourself entertained and pass the time.
- Chargers: Keep your phone, tablet, or laptop charged. This can be a saving grace when you're stuck at the airport, allowing you to stay connected, entertained, and informed about any travel updates.
- Comfort items: If you're facing a long wait, comfort items can make a big difference. Consider packing a lightweight, insulated jacket that can double as a blanket, earplugs to block out noise, and an eye mask to block out the light. If you have the space, a small air mattress, travel pillow, or sleeping bag can also make your wait more comfortable.
- Toiletries: Having a toothbrush, toothpaste, and a travel-size bottle of your favourite moisturiser or lotion can help you feel refreshed and maintain a sense of normalcy, especially if you're facing an overnight stay at the airport.
- Valuables: Keep your valuables secure, especially if you plan to catch some shut-eye. If you're travelling alone, consider storing them in your pockets or in a purse or backpack slung across your shoulder.
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Frequently asked questions
It is always good to prepare for the worst-case scenario when travelling. Some essentials to pack are a collapsible water bottle, snacks, earplugs, a lightweight jacket, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.
It is important to stick to your bedtime routine as much as possible. This will give you a sense of control and peace of mind. Doing some light yoga on the concourse can help you feel more comfortable. If you are travelling as a group, consider establishing a guard shift to keep an eye on your belongings.
A long wait at the airport can be a great opportunity to catch up on that book you've been meaning to read or to watch that show or movie you never got around to seeing. If you are feeling hungry, most airports have lounges with buffets and drinks that you can pay to access.
Being stranded at the airport with no money is stressful, but it is possible to survive without breaking the bank. You can fill up a water bottle at a water fountain or bottle filling station, and some airports provide cots for travellers.
