Layovers can be a frustrating part of traveling, as you find yourself stuck in an unfamiliar airport or location for a while between flights. But layovers don't have to be a bad experience! With some strategic planning, you can actually make the most of your next layover and enjoy it. So, let's dive in and explore this topic in more detail together!
How can I make my layover more enjoyable?
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Get going
Sitting in the economy cabin for long periods can be boring, but it can also have negative effects on your health. The list of ways air travel can harm your body is a bit concerning – bloating, nausea, dehydration, back pain, and poor circulation are all common issues.
The good news is that a layover provides the perfect opportunity to give your body some relief. Take a brisk walk around the airport to reduce your risk of blood clots or do some stretches while waiting at your gate. If you're feeling creative, try doing push-ups on a chair or the wall. Keep some resistance bands in your carry-on to use whenever you have a spare moment or even jog around the airport. Some airports even have designated workout areas like the free yoga studio at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or the gym at Vancouver International Airport (YVR).
Check out the stores
Airports, especially bigger international ones, have unique shopping choices beyond the usual magazine and snack stores. Before your trip, look into finding a shop that you don't have access to where you live but have been wanting to visit.
Airports all over the country and the globe host stores selling clothing, high-quality jewelry, unique local souvenirs, books, tech items, beauty products, and more. If you travel frequently, you may want to use your layover time to stock up on birthday or holiday gifts.
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Look around the airport
Airports don't have to be boring. In fact, many of them have all sorts of interesting attractions, from museums to bars to fun playgrounds for kids. For example, the airport in Qatar has a swimming pool. Munich International Airport (MUC) has an ice-skating rink, and during Oktoberfest, they even have craft beer stands. Vancouver's airport has an aquarium, Hong Kong's has an IMAX theater, and Singapore's has lovely gardens and waterfalls. At many airports, you could spend days exploring all the restaurants and attractions without ever getting bored.
Even if an airport doesn't have any specific exhibits, there's usually still plenty to see if you just wander around. Many airports have locally-inspired art displays hanging on the walls. The Miami International Airport (MIA), for instance, is filled with beautiful art exhibits.
Discover your layover destination
Depending on the duration of your layover, you may want to venture outside the airport and explore the local sights. For instance, if you're passing through the Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) in Phoenix, you could visit the intriguing Mystery Castle, which is only a 20-minute drive from the airport. Similarly, if you're in Boston, you could explore the inspiring Freedom Trail, which is just 3 miles from the airport.
If you're in Minneapolis, the Mall of America is a must-see attraction, located just 12 minutes away from the airport via light rail. And if you're passing through Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) in Atlanta, there are plenty of downtown attractions to explore, such as the World of Coca-Cola, which is around 40 minutes from the airport. So… Enjoy the opportunity to discover a new city but be sure to allot enough time to go through security and catch your next flight!
Streamline your travel day: book cheap off-site parking with ParkingNearAirports.io!
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Don't be stuck wondering about airport parking charges! Our smart booking platform, ParkingNearAirports.io, helps you find convenient and affordable parking near SFO with shuttle or MSP long-term parking for your layover. Free up your time to explore the airport's unique shops or even venture outside to discover the local area. Happy travels!
