Strategic Snoozing: Airports Edition

Sleeping in an airport is not ideal, but sometimes it's necessary. Whether you're dealing with a long layover, an early morning flight, or a flight cancellation, knowing the best spots to get some rest in an airport can make your travel experience more bearable. From finding designated sleeping zones to bringing the right gear, here are some tips to help you navigate sleeping in an airport.

Sleeping pods

Features of Sleeping Pods:

• Privacy and Quiet: Sleeping pods offer a private and quiet space away from the busy airport environment. They are designed to block out light and noise, providing a peaceful atmosphere for rest.
• Comfort and Convenience: Sleeping pods typically feature a flat bed or recliner, storage space for hand luggage, power outlets, and USB charging ports. Some pods may also include additional amenities like a reading light, internet access, and a workspace.
• Accessibility and Affordability: Sleeping pods are available at various airports worldwide, including Helsinki, London Heathrow, Paris Charles de Gaulle, and Singapore Changi Airport. They offer a more affordable alternative to hotel rooms, especially for short stays.

Benefits of Sleeping Pods:

• Enhanced Traveller Experience: Sleeping pods improve the overall airport experience by providing a comfortable and convenient place to rest. They can be easily relocated within the airport and are designed to optimise space utilisation.
• Improved Wellness and Productivity: Sleeping pods allow travellers to rest, recharge, and maintain their well-being during long layovers or delays. This can lead to improved productivity and reduced risk of illness for travellers, especially business professionals.
• Cost Savings: Sleeping pods offer a cost-effective alternative to hotel rooms, particularly for short stays or overnight layovers. They can save travellers money, especially when hotel options are limited or expensive.

Lounges

Inside, you may find comfortable couches, recliners, or even private rooms to nap in. Some lounges even have showers, which can be a great way to freshen up before your next flight. It's important to note, however, that not all lounges allow sleeping, and some have specific operating hours. Be sure to check the lounge's website or call ahead to confirm their policies.

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, some airports offer public lounge areas that are free to use and provide a quiet space to rest. Additionally, websites like SleepingInAirports.net can help you find the best spots to sleep in airports around the world, whether they're free, paid, or hidden away from the crowds.

Recliners

If you're looking for a comfortable place to rest while waiting for your flight, head to one of these airports and look for the recliners they offer. These reclining chairs allow travellers to rest and relax before their next flight.

In addition to recliners, some airports also provide other facilities to support travellers needing sleep. For example, the Singapore airport offers free-to-use snooze zones in each of its terminals. Helsinki Airport in Finland, Doha, and Munich International Airport in Germany offer sleeping pods, which are massage chairs with a cover that you can pay for by the hour or minute.

If you're looking for more privacy and comfort, airports in Doha, Qatar, and Istanbul have in-terminal airport hotels, which don't require you to leave the secure area or go through immigration. Alternatively, some airports offer airport hotels that are connected or nearby, but these options may require you to leave the security area and pass through immigration.

When planning your travel, it's always a good idea to research the specific airport you'll be in to see what options are available. Websites like SleepingInAirports.net can provide valuable insights into the best spots to rest and can help you make the most of your time during layovers or flight delays.

Capsule hotels

The sleeping pods come in various sizes, from small capsules that enclose a single person to larger options that can accommodate a family. Most pods include power sockets, reading lights, luggage compartments, and sometimes even TVs and private bathrooms. They are typically booked by the hour, making them a budget-friendly option for travellers.

Some of the notable capsule hotel companies include GoSleep, YotelAir, Napcab, SleepBox, and ZZZleepandGo. GoSleep, for example, offers pods that envelop guests in a cocoon with a reclining chair and storage for carry-on luggage. YotelAir provides private cabins with single or double beds, workspaces, and private bathrooms, while Napcab offers soundproof cabins with beds, workspaces, and multimedia touchscreens. SleepBox provides small rooms with extra-long twin mattresses, internet access, and working desks. ZZZleepandGo offers cabins with twin mattresses, multimedia touchscreens, standard electrical outlets, and USB connections.

Hotels

If you're looking for a more comfortable option than sleeping on the floor or in a chair, many airports have hotels either on-site or very close by.

In-terminal airport hotels

Some airports have hotels inside the terminal, meaning you don't have to leave the secure area or go through immigration to get to them. Airports with in-terminal hotels include Doha and Istanbul.

Airport hotels nearby

Many airports have hotels connected to them or located nearby, but these will require you to leave the secure area and sometimes pass through immigration.

Shuttle services

Some airports even offer a shuttle service to and from airport hotels for stranded travellers.

Book in advance

If you know in advance that you'll need to stay overnight in an airport hotel, it's a good idea to book in advance. This is especially important if you're looking for a budget option, as these can get booked up quickly.

Research the airport

It's also worth researching the airport you'll be staying in, as not all airports operate 24 hours a day. Some airports close overnight, so you'll need to look for alternative options if you're planning to stay there.

Priority Pass

If you have Priority Pass, you can get access to Minute Suites for free for one hour and pay for additional hours. This is a great alternative to a lounge, especially if you just need a quick nap.

Frequently asked questions