How to utilise your waiting time on the airport

Melinda is traveling to Peru. She reached the airport an hour early to avoid the traffic on the road. But how will she kill the time? She did not want to stare at the Instagram reels like every time she did while on a trip alone. Hence, this time, she decided to carry a book to read while waiting at the airport. She read a few lines, dozed off for a while, woke up with a start, and then reread the book. She observed the passenger seated beside her, who was scrolling social media, and eventually, she got tempted to check out the latest reels. Melinda’s story is completely relatable. What do you do while waiting at the airport?

Patience is not simply the ability to wait – it’s how we behave while we are waiting.

Unlike Melinda, I am always prepared for the long, almost unending, airport waits. They say that lives are short and only limited hours are available. Hence, you should always be prepared for the future. I always have something or other task that I need to execute during waiting hours at the airport, for a friend at a cafe, while my phone is getting charged, or before the movie is about to begin. This post is about utilizing your waiting time while you are on a trip, as a frequent flier.

Things to keep in mind before you book your flight

Pro-Tip: Book flights outside peak times to avoid that dreaded traffic jam! Flights leaving within three hours after peak hours can leave you crawling through traffic, often adding at least an hour to your journey. So, plan and pick times that help you avoid the congestion.

Stuck in Traffic Anyway? Make the Most of It!

Raisha had booked her tickets smartly. She even paid a little extra for the booking so she wasn’t caught in the traffic. But the Travel God had some other plans for her. A sudden swarm of marathon runners on the road stopped the traffic. Sometimes, dodging travel hours isn’t an option. If you’re caught in the slow lane, it’s a perfect time to reconnect! Call those friends or family you wished to catch up with—after all, they’ve been waiting for your call (since the last time you promised to call often). Or, why not use the time to do a little online shopping? Check your wish list, hunt for deals, and add items to your cart—it’s guilt-free multitasking!

Returning Home? Start Curating Your Travel Highlights

If you’re returning from a great trip and stuck in the traffic again, let the editing begin! Sort and polish your favorite travel pics so they’re ready to share with everyone. Embrace the wait by setting up your next post-worthy moment on the gram. Alternatively, you can make a list of groceries, order them online if need be, and co-ordinate with helpers for the long list of to-dos awaiting you.

Stuck waiting at the airport? Don’t just sit there! Here are a few fun and productive ways to make the most of your time before takeoff:

Smart travel is about making the most of every moment—even the unexpected ones!

Fun Ideas and Smart Tips to make the most of airport waiting time

Stroll Through Duty-Free Shops: Discover Luxuries and Last-Minute Finds

Duty-free shopping is a hallmark of airports worldwide, allowing travelers to browse and buy premium items without the added taxes. The ones that top my list are that of Dubai, London, Singapore and Hong Kong. Here’s why I consider it as a fantastic way to spend my layover:

Unbeatable Deals on Premium Brands: Luxury goods, from designer fragrances to high-end cosmetics and electronics, are often available for a discount. Brands like Chanel, Dior, and Estee Lauder offer exclusive airport deals, so if you’ve been eyeing a new perfume or skincare product, this is your moment.
Gifts on the Go: A busy schedule leaving no time to shop for loved ones? A beautifully wrapped gift from duty-free can make a meaningful impression, especially if your trip’s kept you away for long.
Stress Relief through Retail Therapy: Studies show that shopping can be a mood booster, and after a long trip, you deserve it! From chocolates to rare wines, duty-free is your playground to unwind.

Bonus Tip: Sign up for duty-free loyalty programs if you’re a frequent traveler. I recently did. Some stores offer rewards points, discounts, or even online shopping to reserve items for pick-up when you arrive.

2. Savor Global Cuisine: Embark on a Mini Culinary Journey

Airport dining has evolved far beyond fast food. Most major airports now feature gourmet restaurants offering a taste of local flavors, regional delicacies, and international fusion cuisine. Here’s how to make your layover a culinary adventure:

Explore Local Specialties: Airports now highlight local flavors to give travelers a taste of the region. When I was in Haneda Airport in Japan, I tried vegan sushi with authentic ingredients. Exploring local cuisine can add excitement to your trip.
Try Health-Conscious Meals: Healthy eating has become mainstream at airports. Vegan and plant-based options, like quinoa bowls, cater to travelers’ dietary preferences. Fuel your journey with nutritious meals that won’t weigh you down. If you are at Los Angeles Airport, then do try the gluten-free meals on offer.
Sip and Unwind with Craft Cocktails: Many airport lounges now feature bars serving artisanal cocktails and local beers, allowing you to savor a well-made drink while watching planes take off. If you can, ask someone to take your picture. This will garner maximum likes!

Fun Fact: The food at many airports is often crafted by renowned chefs. Some airports collaborate with Michelin-starred chefs to bring exclusive recipes to travelers.

3. Access Airport Lounges: Your Oasis of Comfort

Airport lounges offer premium services and amenities to make layovers enjoyable. Here’s why securing lounge access is worth every mile or credit card point:

Unwind in Comfort: Lounges offer plush seating, quiet nooks, and reclining chairs for a quick nap. The relaxing ambiance can make you feel worlds away from the airport’s hustle and bustle.
Indulge in Free Food and Beverages: Enjoy snacks, meals, and drinks. From freshly brewed coffee to full-course meals, lounges offer a wide range of dining options that make your wait enjoyable.
Stay Productive: Many lounges provide free high-speed Wi-Fi, workstations, and charging ports, allowing you to catch up on emails or work on your latest project.

Insider Tip: Some credit cards offer complimentary lounge access. If you’re not a frequent flyer, look for lounges that allow one-time entry for a fee—it’s a worthy investment for long layovers.

4. Exchange Currency: Prepare for Local Adventures

In today’s digital world, it may seem unnecessary to carry cash. However, when exploring local markets, cash is still king. Here’s why exchanging currency at the airport can benefit travelers:

Bargaining Power in Local Markets: Cash gives you more leverage in local markets where credit cards might not be accepted. Many cultures still consider cash transactions the norm, especially in smaller towns or markets.
Avoid High ATM Fees: Using your card internationally often incurs foreign transaction fees or high ATM withdrawal fees. Exchanging a bit of cash at the airport can help avoid these costs.
Convenient, Safe Start to Your Trip: Airport exchange counters may offer competitive rates, especially in popular destinations. If you’re unsure about the currency exchange rate, use an app or do a quick online check for reference.

Pro Tip: Be cautious about how much you exchange. Small amounts are convenient for taxis, tips, or markets, but you may not want to carry a large amount for security reasons.

5. People-Watching with a Twist: Grab a Coffee and Observe the World

Airports attract people from all walks of life, making them ideal for people-watching. Grab a coffee, find a comfortable spot, and observe the fascinating diversity of travelers around you:

Learn about Cultural Diversity: Airports offer a unique glimpse into different cultures. You’ll see traditional clothing from various countries, hear unique languages, and witness peculiar farewell customs, without leaving your seat even once.
Get Inspired for Your Next Trip: Watching others in transit might spark ideas for your future travels. Maybe you’ll spot someone with a travel guide, sparking your interest in a new destination.
Enjoy a Moment of Reflection: Use this time to reflect on your journey. Airports are transient places, making them perfect for thinking about where you’re coming from, where you’re going, and what you hope to achieve on your trip.

Pro Tip: If you’re a writer or a creative, jot down your observations. People-watching can provide rich inspiration for stories, characters, or artistic projects.

6. Stay Active: Stretch, Walk, and Explore

Sitting for hours on a plane can leave you feeling stiff. Many airports now offer areas for exercise and stretching. Here’s how to stay active before your flight:

Walk Around the Terminal: Walking is one of the easiest ways to stay active. Many airports are vast, with plenty of room to get your steps in, and some even feature art installations or scenic views.
Yoga or Stretching Zones: Some airports have yoga rooms or quiet areas perfect for a few gentle stretches. If there’s no dedicated space, find a quiet corner and do light yoga poses.
Follow Guided Meditation or Relaxation Apps: Calm your mind with a meditation app like Calm or Headspace. Many apps have short guided sessions for reducing stress before a flight.

Insider Tip: If you have heavy bags, check them in early or find a locker to store them temporarily. This allows you to explore and walk around without the extra weight.

7. Capture and Curate: Sort, Edit, and Share Your Travel Photos

If you’re returning from a trip, waiting time at the airport is perfect for editing photos. Here’s how to use this time productively:

Organize Your Photos: Go through your phone or camera, deleting duplicates or blurry images. Organizing your photos now will make it easier to create albums later.
Edit on the Go: Use editing apps like Lightroom, Snapseed, or VSCO to enhance your images. With a few filters and adjustments, you can bring out the best in your travel shots.
Share the Highlights: Create a quick social media post or share photos with friends and family to keep them updated on your journey.

Bonus Tip: Many airports offer free Wi-Fi, so upload your edited images directly to the cloud. This ensures your memories are safe, even if you run out of storage space on your device.

Other Ideas to Enhance Your Airport Experience

If you’ve got more time to kill or want even more ideas, consider these options:

Listen to Podcasts or Audiobooks: A long layover is perfect for catching up on your favorite podcasts or audiobooks. Download a few episodes of your favorite podcast or the latest book in a series to stay entertained.
Catch Up on Reading: Pack a good book or buy one at the airport bookstore. Whether fiction, travel guides, or self-improvement books, it is a fantastic way to unwind.
Plan Your Trip’s Itinerary: Use your layover to finalize the plans for your destination. Research top attractions, make restaurant reservations, or jot down a list of must-visit spots.
Play Travel-Friendly Games: If you’re traveling with family or friends, try card games or mobile games to pass the time together. Solo? You can complete a crossword, solve a sudoku, or even a word puzzle. I love puzzles on the New York Times app.

Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Every Airport Moment

Airports or any place you must wait can become interesting and fruitful if you are prepared. Approach the waiting time with the right mindset and you will never repent the time invested. Make the most of your layover or waiting time. Ensure a productive and enjoyable journey by embracing each experience. Always remember that travel is as much about the destination as it is about the journey! Focus on making memories instead of cribbing! Happy travels!