Layovers can sometimes be a frustrating wait or a much-needed break in your travel journey. Instead of dreading the hours between flights, why not make the most of them? Here are five of the best ways to turn your layover into a memorable part of your travel experience:

Leave the airport or even extend your layover

If your layover is 4 hours or more, consider leaving the airport and exploring the destination. Book a guided tour that fits the layover duration (and your budget!). If you prefer to create your own self-guided adventures, research the city’s highlights and choose your activities. Whichever path you decide, ensure you account for travel time to and from the airport and give yourself sufficient time for security and immigration checks to catch your next flight!

If you don’t think you have enough time to hop out of the airport, check your airline to see if they offer free or paid stopover programs. Some airlines with free stopover programs in the airlines’ base countries including Copa Airlines, TAP Air Portugal and Emirates. Other airlines permit stopovers, you’d just have to review the fare rules for the airlines or the ticket you bought. For example, I have a 2024 classic ticket with Caribbean Airlines and it permits two stopovers – one free and one at 25 USD. Pretty awesome if you ask me!

Explore the airport’s amenities while getting some steps in

If your baggage isn’t too heavy or you’re traveling with others that you can leave your bags with, walk around and explore the airport’s amenities. Some larger airports have entertainment and activities art installations, museums, or cultural exhibits or even sleeping pods or rooms for naps.

Just walking through the airport is a good way to get light exercise and explore different terminals. Because sitting in a plane and the whole traveling process can be exhausting, you should use your layover to move around and reset yourself.

Catch up on work or personal projects

A layover is a great opportunity for travelers who like to stay productive to catch up on work or personal projects. Many airports have wi-fi and power outlets for passengers’ use. The time can be used to catch up on emails, work on projects, do an online course or if you’re a last minute traveler even plan the next leg of your trip! You can also use the downtime to wind down however you do – reading, listening to podcasts or organising personal files (like your million travel photos).

Socialize in the airport bar

Layovers could also be a great social opportunity. One of my best airport memories is sitting in an airport bar in Trinidad having some veryyyy interesting conversations with fellow travelers. You could possibly hear fascinating travel stories or get useful tips for your upcoming destination or future trips. The bars may also have local drinks or alcohol in stock which is a fun way to get a taste of the local culture without leaving the airport.

Relax in the airport lounge

With comfort and entertainment in mind, consider spending time in an airport lounge. If you have access to an airline lounge, use it. Lounges can often provide comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, free wi-fi, television or entertainment, kids’ playpark and sometimes even showers. It’s also a great opportunity to make professional connections and network with travelers from various industries. If you don’t have lounge membership, inquire at the airline’s front desk if you can buy lounge access for the day.

A layover doesn’t have to be a burdensome experience. With a little creativity and planning, you can turn those hours of waiting into a small adventure, a relaxing break, or a productive session. Regardless of how you choose to spend your layover, note the following:

• Plan ahead. It can make all the difference. Look into the airport’s amenities and services before you arrive to see what’s the optimal way to spend your time.
• Pack your personal baggage smartly – carry essentials for your chosen method to spend your layover.
• Monitor your flight status! Keep an eye on your flight status through the airline’s updates and be aware of boarding times to avoid missing your connection.

So next time you find yourself with hours to spare between flights, try one of these recommendations and make the most of your travel time. Happy traveling!