How to Sleep at an Airport: Comfort and Safety Tips

Have you ever been stranded at an airport, facing a long layover or an unexpected delay? It’s a situation many travelers dread, but with the right approach, you can turn this downtime into a chance to rest and recharge.

Sleeping at an airport might seem challenging, but it’s often a necessary skill for frequent flyers and budget travelers alike. Whether you’re trying to save money on a hotel or just looking to catch a quick nap between flights, knowing how to sleep comfortably in an airport can make your journey much smoother.

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Let’s dive into some practical tips and tricks to help you get some quality shut-eye in the bustling environment of an airport terminal.

What to Know About Sleeping at Airports

Most airports let you sleep overnight, but not all of them do. Before you fly, check if your airport allows it. Some airports shut down at night, so you’ll need to find another place to rest.

Ask about what the airport offers before you go. Many big airports have hotels nearby or even inside them. Sometimes, airports run shuttles to take tired travelers to these hotels. If you can’t sleep at the airport, you might find a comfy bed close by.

Always find out what kind of airport you’ll be staying in and what it has for overnight guests. This way, you won’t be stuck without a place to sleep.

Know When the Airport is Open

Check if the airport stays open all night before you plan to sleep there. Big airports usually never close, but smaller ones might shut down at night. Look at the airport’s website or give them a call to find out their hours.

This is really important if you think you might have long delays or need to stay overnight. If the main areas close early, you might still be able to rest in the check-in area or near the baggage claim. Just keep your ticket and ID with you.

That way, if anyone asks, you can show them you’re supposed to be there. Knowing the airport’s schedule helps you avoid getting stuck outside in the middle of the night.

Look for Good Sleeping Spots

Try to find special areas made for sleeping at the airport. Some airports even have cool sleep pods or tiny rooms where you can rest quietly for a few hours. If you can’t find these, look for places where other people are already napping.

Some airports have special lounges you can pay to use for a day. These might have comfy chairs or even recliners for napping, but check first because not all lounges allow sleeping.

Pick a spot where not many people walk by, so you won’t be woken up and you won’t be in anyone’s way. But don’t go too far away from everyone else, as this might make you an easy target for thieves. Choose a spot that feels safe and comfortable for you.

Keep Possessions Safe

Keep your belongings close to prevent theft while you sleep. Use your bag as a pillow or hug it while you rest to make it harder for someone to take without waking you.

Consider using a luggage lock for added security on your bags. For maximum security, see if the airport has a locker area for travelers to safely stow away belongings.

If you’re traveling with a friend, take turns sleeping so one person can watch the luggage.

Get Comfortable

Bring a travel pillow and a light blanket to make your airport sleep more cozy. Choose a pillow that’s easy to carry but still gives good support for your neck.

Some travelers find inflatable pillows handy because they take up less space in luggage. For extra comfort, try a foam seat cushion with a memory foam travel pillow, which can make even a hard airport chair feel softer.

Wear loose, comfortable clothes and bring an extra layer in case the airport gets cold at night.

Block Out Light and Noise

Pack an eye mask and earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to create a dark, quiet space in the busy airport. These items can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

Airports can be noisy environments, and studies show that noise from aircraft can significantly disturb people’s sleep quality. Therefore, it’s important to take precautions and block out these noises to get better sleep, according to sleep expert Dr. Jing Zhang.

If you forget these items, try using a scarf, jacket or sweater to cover your eyes and play background noise on your phone to mask airport sounds.

Set an Alarm

Don’t risk missing your flight by oversleeping! Set multiple alarms on your phone to wake you up with plenty of time before boarding. Ask airport staff for a wake-up call if that service is available, as a backup to your own alarms.

Consider setting an alarm to go off every 90 minutes so you can check your surroundings and ensure your belongings are safe. When you sleep, your body goes through different stages every 90 minutes.

First, you start with light sleep, where you’re just beginning to relax. Then, you enter deep sleep, which helps your body grow and repair itself. Finally, you reach REM sleep, where you dream. After that, the cycle starts again.

Waking up from deep sleep can make you feel groggy, so it’s recommended to sleep through a full 90-minute sleep cycle and wake up during REM sleep, adds Dr. Jing Zhang.

Stay Clean

Bring a small toiletry kit with essentials like a toothbrush, deodorant, and face wipes to freshen up after your airport nap. Pack these items in a clear, TSA-approved bag for easy access.

If possible, change into fresh clothes after sleeping to feel more refreshed. Remember to locate the nearest restroom before settling in for your nap.

Eat and Drink Smart

Avoid caffeine and heavy meals before trying to sleep, as these can disrupt your rest. Instead, have a light snack like nuts or fruit and stay hydrated with water.

If you’re hungry when you wake up, many airports have 24-hour food options available, even if it’s just a vending machine.

Stretch Before and After

Do some gentle stretches before and after your nap to help your body relax and wake up more easily. Simple exercises like shoulder rolls, neck stretches, and leg extensions can improve circulation after sitting for long periods.

This can also help prevent stiffness from sleeping in an awkward position on airport seating.

FAQs

How can I stay safe?

Generally speaking, major airports are considered relatively safe places to catch some sleep, especially in comparison to many other public spaces. Airports typically have round-the-clock security presence, surveillance cameras, and a constant flow of people, which can deter potential criminal activity.

However, it’s important to remain vigilant and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Always keep your luggage close to you if it’s not stored in a secure locker. Use your bags as pillows if possible, and consider using a luggage lock.

It’s also wise to sleep in well-lit, more populated areas of the airport rather than secluded corners. Choose a spot that’s not too isolated but also not in a busy area.

Is sleeping allowed?

Most airports allow overnight stays, but not all do. Check the airport’s website or call them before your trip to make sure. Some airports close at night, so you might need to find another place to rest.

Always know the rules of the airport you’ll be in. This way, you won’t be surprised or left without a place to sleep.

Is it worth paying for a lounge?

It’s important to weigh the benefits against the cost. Airport lounges typically offer a more comfortable and quiet environment than the bustling main terminal, with amenities like comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, and sometimes even shower facilities. You may also have more of a security presence for peace of mind.

However, the value proposition depends on several factors, including the duration of your wait, the quality of the specific lounge, and your personal comfort needs. If you’re facing a particularly long layover or an overnight stay, the peace and comfort of a lounge might be well worth the price.

Ultimately, if sleep is a priority and you have the budget for it, airport lounges can offer a sanctuary of relative calm in the chaotic airport environment. Just be sure to check reviews of the specific lounge beforehand, as quality can vary significantly between locations and providers.

What should I bring for better sleep?

Pack a travel pillow and a light blanket to make your airport sleep cozier. Bring an eye mask and earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to block out light and noise. Wear loose, comfortable clothes and bring an extra layer in case it gets cold.

Don’t forget a small toiletry kit with essentials like a toothbrush and face wipes to freshen up after your nap.

How can I make sure I don’t miss my flight?

Set multiple alarms on your phone to wake you up with plenty of time before boarding. Ask airport staff for a wake-up call if that service is available, as a backup to your own alarms.

Consider setting an alarm to go off every hour so you can check your surroundings and ensure your belongings are safe (if you are sleeping with them close by).

Always give yourself extra time to wake up and get ready before your flight, particularly if you need time to freshen up or fetch your belongings from an airport storage area.

Can I sleep on the floor?

Sure, you can sleep on the floor in most airports. It’s not the comfiest option, but it’s often done. Just find a quiet spot away from foot traffic. Bring a travel pillow and maybe a blanket if you can.

Conclusion

Sleeping at an airport might not be ideal, but with the right preparation, it can be a manageable and even comfortable experience. By following these tips, you can turn a potentially stressful situation into an opportunity to rest and save money.

Remember to prioritize your safety, comfort, and personal hygiene while making the most of your airport stay. Always check the airport’s policies beforehand and be respectful of other travelers and airport staff.

With practice, you’ll become an expert at navigating long layovers and unexpected delays. Mastering the art of airport sleeping can make you a more flexible and resourceful traveler, ready to handle whatever challenges your journey might bring.

So pack your travel pillow, set those alarms, and rest easy knowing you’re prepared for any airport adventure that comes your way.