Lois Larson
Sleeping on the airport floor is a common occurrence, especially with early morning flights, long layovers, flight cancellations, and weather delays. While some people may find it rude, others view it as a necessity. Sleeping in airports is no longer exclusive to budget-conscious backpackers, as travellers from all walks of life can be seen stretched out on airport floors worldwide. Some airports provide cots and blankets for stranded passengers, while others close for the night, requiring travellers to leave. The availability of sleeping accommodations in airports varies, with some offering lounge chairs, sleep pods, or nearby hotels, while others have limited options, leading to passengers sleeping on the floor.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Acceptability | Some people think it is acceptable to sleep on the airport floor, while others disagree. |
| Prevalence | Sleeping on the airport floor is a common occurrence, especially at larger international airports. |
| Reasons | People sleep on the airport floor due to early morning flights, long layovers, flight cancellations, financial constraints, or unexpected delays. |
| Airport Policies | Some airports allow sleeping in the terminal, while others close for the night or advise against sleeping on the floor. |
| Alternatives | Airports may offer cots and blankets or lounge chairs. Nearby hotels, B&Bs, or Airbnb options are also available but may be costly. |
| Etiquette | Some consider it rude, referring to it as "human littering," while others are indifferent as long as sleepers are out of the way. |
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What You'll Learn
Acceptability and etiquette
While sleeping on the floor of an airport may be unavoidable in certain situations, it is generally considered to be unacceptable behaviour. According to etiquette expert William Hanson, "sleeping on the floor is human littering". Hanson further states that he would "never bring himself to sleep on the floor", regardless of how tired he was.
However, not everyone agrees with this stance. Jodi RR Smith, an etiquette consultant, believes that it is acceptable to sit and even sleep on the floor of an airport. She argues that it is understandable, given the various circumstances that travellers may find themselves in, such as early morning flights, long layovers, or flight cancellations. Additionally, some airports provide cots and blankets for stranded travellers, indicating that they are tolerant of passengers sleeping in the terminal.
Public opinion on this matter is divided. A Kayak poll found that 60% of travellers disapproved of sitting on the floor, and 75% thought sleeping was unacceptable. However, some people on Twitter have criticised airports for not allowing passengers to sleep on the floor, calling the rule "mean", "absurd", and "silly".
To avoid sleeping on the airport floor, travellers can consider the following options:
- Book a hotel room near the airport or an airport hotel, which is located within or very close to the airport.
- Look for airport sleeping pods, sometimes called nap pods, which offer privacy and amenities such as reading lights, internet access, and power connectors.
- Utilise lounge-type chairs available in some airports, which provide a more comfortable sleeping option.
- If you have a long layover, you may be able to leave the airport and do some sightseeing or find a more comfortable place to rest.
Ultimately, the acceptability of sleeping on the floor of an airport is a matter of personal opinion and the specific circumstances. While some people may find it unacceptable, others may understand the challenges faced by travellers and be more tolerant. As a traveller, it is essential to be respectful of other passengers and airport staff, and to consider the available alternatives to sleeping on the floor whenever possible.
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Reasons for sleeping in airports
Sleeping in airports is usually not against the rules, but it is frowned upon by other passengers. A recent poll by Kayak found that 60% of travellers disapproved of sitting on the floor and 75% thought sleeping was off-limits. However, with early morning flights, long layovers, flight cancellations, and delays, travellers from all walks of life end up sleeping on airport floors.
Sleeping on the airport floor is often the last resort for travellers. Some airports close at night and require people to leave, while others provide designated sleeping spots with appropriate furniture, free of charge. Airports like Charles de Gaulle, Dubai, Istanbul, Dallas Fort Worth, and Singapore Changi offer free or paid sleeping amenities. Some airports have dedicated nap pods or nap rooms, for a fee, which offer a spot to sleep with your bags corralled.
If you have a long layover, you may want to get out of the airport and do some sightseeing. However, if you need to stay at the airport, there are some tips and tricks to help you get some shut-eye. Websites like Sleeping in Airports can help you find the darkest, quietest spot to sleep in any airport. Many experts recommend checking out airport lounges, as the seating is comfier and the area is generally quieter. Some credit cards give access to airport lounges, or you can purchase a day pass for longer layovers.
If you do end up sleeping on the airport floor, there are some things you can do to make yourself more comfortable. An eye mask and earplugs can help block out noise and light and signal to others that you're trying to sleep. It's also a good idea to wear breathable layers for better temperature regulation and set multiple alarms to ensure you don't sleep through your flight.
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Sleeping pod alternatives
While some people consider sleeping on the airport floor rude, it is sometimes the only option for travellers facing long delays. Some airports close at night and require people to leave, while others are okay with passengers catching some sleep in the terminal and may even provide a cot and blanket.
If you're looking for an alternative to sleeping on the airport floor, here are some options:
Sleeping Pods
Sleeping pods are a great alternative to sleeping on the floor, offering privacy and comfort. However, they can be expensive, with some costing €15/hour or more.
Airport Lounges
You can buy your way into a first-class airport lounge without having to pay for a business or first-class ticket. Lounges typically offer comfortable seating and amenities like food, drinks, and shower facilities.
Hotels
If you have a long layover or delay, consider leaving the airport and booking a hotel room for a more comfortable sleep. Hotels typically offer more space and amenities than airport sleeping options and can often be more affordable.
Travel Advisers
Hiring a travel adviser can help you avoid sleeping on the airport floor. A good travel adviser will ensure you have accommodation, even for unexpected delays or cancellations.
Portable Sleep Solutions
If you're travelling with children, portable sleep solutions like the SlumberPod or a fitted tent for a pack-and-play can help create a comfortable and private space for them to sleep while on the go. These options are especially useful if you want to maintain your regular sleep schedule while travelling.
Other Amenities
Some airports provide amenities like lounge-style chairs, hot and cold water stations, and quiet rest areas with dim lighting and charging stations. These can make it more comfortable to wait at the airport, even if you're not able to access a sleeping pod or hotel.
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Airport policies and facilities
Airport policies regarding sleeping in terminals vary. While some airports are okay with passengers catching some sleep in the terminal buildings, others implement periodic overnight closures and do not allow passengers to sleep in the terminal. Airports that do not allow sleeping in the terminal usually do so to allow for construction work, cleaning, and other preparations for the following day's flight operations. Some airports that implement overnight closures advise passengers to arrive at the airport only at their scheduled check-in time.
Some airports bring cots and blankets for stranded passengers, while others close for the night and require that everyone leaves the premises. The best way to find out an airport's policy on sleeping in the terminal is to ask at the information booth or check the airport's website.
Some airports have lounges with reclining lounge chairs, hot and cold water stations, and bathrooms with showers. Some airports also have sleeping pods for rent, but these can be expensive. A few airports have free rest areas with dimmer lights, fake plants for privacy, electronic charging stations, and no loud music.
Passengers can also opt to sleep upright in a chair, which is usually allowed in airports that do not permit sleeping on the floor. Some airports also have nearby hotels, B&Bs, and Airbnbs, as well as 24-hour coach services.
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Traveller experiences
Some travellers have expressed frustration with the lack of comfortable sleeping options in airports. One traveller, John Paul Engel, shared his experience of sleeping on a cold, hard airport floor with bright lights and constant announcements. Engel, who has slept on many airport floors, suggests using your carry-on bag as a pillow to avoid having it stolen. Another traveller, Meghan Mahoney, found herself sleeping in the airport when her flight from Paris was delayed with no estimated time for departure.
Some airports have introduced sleep pods, lounges, and airport hotels to accommodate travellers with layovers. Singapore Changi Airport, for example, has several rest zones, rest chairs, lounges, shower facilities, and various attractions. However, one traveller noted that the airport's lights tend to stay brightly lit, which can be a hindrance to those trying to sleep.
In contrast, some travellers opt to sleep on airport floors to avoid the cost of a hotel room. A poll by Kayak found that 60% of travellers disapproved of sitting on the floor, and 75% thought sleeping was off-limits. Etiquette expert William Hanson considers sleeping on the floor as "human littering" and finds it unacceptable.
Overall, traveller experiences of sleeping on airport floors vary depending on individual circumstances and preferences. While some travellers find it acceptable, others may prefer the comfort and privacy of a hotel or sleep pod.
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Frequently asked questions
The court of public opinion is undecided on the matter. While some people don't mind others sleeping on the airport floor, etiquette expert William Hanson calls it "human littering". Sleeping on the airport floor is commonplace, with a website called Sleeping in Airports dedicated to the topic.
It depends on the airport. Some airports are fine with passengers sleeping in the terminal, and some even provide cots and blankets. Other airports close overnight and require that you leave. It's best to check the airport's website or ask at the information booth.
Some airports provide lounge-type chairs, sleeping pods, or airport hotels. You can also book a hotel, B&B, or Airbnb nearby.
If you're planning to sleep in an airport, check online for reviews and information about the facilities. If you're going to sleep on the floor, make sure you're tucked out of other people's way. Pack extra underwear, a toothbrush, toothpaste, and a change of clothes in your carry-on.
People sleep on the floor of an airport due to early morning flights, long layovers, flight cancellations, and delays. Sleeping in the airport allows travellers to save money on accommodation.
