How to Survive Being Stuck in an Airport
Travelers love airports, right? You walk in with dreams of quick security checks, ample seating, and maybe a lounge with bottomless snacks. But what if your dream turns into a drawn-out nightmare, and you’re stuck there for hours? Or worse, overnight.
We’ve all been there. If you’re reading this from the comfort of your couch, don’t get too relaxed – it could happen to you next time you travel. But don’t worry. I’ve got you covered with a few entertaining (and practical) tips to survive being stuck in an airport.
Key Points
- Stay calm – Panic won’t help; accept the situation and settle in.
- Stay comfortable – Dress in layers, find a good seat, and keep your devices charged.
- Stay entertained – Download shows, read a book, or people-watch to pass the time.
The First Thing You Should Do: Stay Calm
First, take deep breaths. Getting mad at the airline staff or panicking won’t change the situation. Your flight is delayed or canceled. You’re stuck. Accept it. It’s easier said than done, but take it from me: Staying calm is critical to surviving an airport delay.
10 Quick Tips to Survive Being Stuck in an Airport
- Stay Calm and Positive: Accept the situation and keep a positive attitude – stress only worsens things.
- Find a Comfortable Spot: Locate a quiet area with a power outlet to charge your devices while you wait.
- Stock Up on Snacks and Water: Grab food and drinks early to avoid long lines or closures, or bring snacks to save money.
- Stay Updated on Flight Information: Check the flight boards regularly and sign up for text alerts from your airline.
- Download Entertainment: Have movies, shows, or podcasts ready on your device to pass the time.
- Explore the Airport: Stretch your legs and discover amenities like lounges, shops, or art exhibits.
- Bring Layers for Comfort: Airports can be cold, so dress in layers to stay warm, especially if you stay overnight.
- Use Free Wi-Fi: The airport’s Wi-Fi is a great way to stay connected, work, or chat with friends and family.
- Practice Mindfulness or Meditate: Use this time to relax with deep breathing or meditation to reduce anxiety.
- Chat with Fellow Travelers: Starting conversations with others in the same situation can lighten the mood and help pass the time quickly.
How to Settle In Like a Pro
Once you’ve accepted your fate, it’s time to settle in for the long haul. Find a comfortable spot – and I mean as close as possible to a power outlet. These outlets are your lifeline to the outside world. Without power, you lose access to the most vital tool: your smartphone.
Find a Good Spot
Sure, those hard, plastic chairs seem uninviting, but they’re better than the floor, which may seem like an appealing option at first, until you realize it’s a cold, tiled abyss of bacteria and sadness. If you’re lucky, some airports offer reclined chairs, or even small “nap zones” where weary travelers can stretch out.
Gather Supplies
You’ll want to gather essentials once you’re parked near a precious power source. Water and snacks are a must. Most airports have overpriced cafes and shops, so if you’re resourceful, bring your own. You might also be tempted to hit the airport bar, but remember that a drunken stupor may not improve your situation (plus, have you seen airport drink prices?).
Did You Know?
Some airports, like Singapore’s Changi Airport, offer free city tours for travelers stuck on long layovers. If you’re delayed for more than five hours, you might be able to explore the city without leaving the airport entirely! This unique perk is available at a few international hubs and can turn an otherwise dull delay into an unexpected adventure.
Entertainment: How to Beat Boredom
So, you’ve found your spot, plugged in your phone, and stocked up on snacks. Now what? It’s time to distract yourself.
Read a Book or Magazine
This might be the perfect excuse to dive into that book you’ve been meaning to read. Remember those? Words on pages? Or grab a magazine from one of those newsstands where prices are 50% higher than usual. You’re killing time by not paying off a mortgage.
Download Movies or Shows
Most of us don’t consider downloading entertainment before traveling, but it’s a lifesaver. You’ll want something to watch if you’re in the airport for hours (or worse, overnight). Bonus points if you’ve got a streaming service that allows offline downloads.
People-Watching
One of the greatest free shows on earth happens right in front of you at the airport. People-watching can become an addictive hobby when you’re bored. There’s the businessman on his phone, pacing as if his movements will speed up his delayed flight, or the family with five kids who’ve somehow taken over an entire seating area. Seeing everyone else as stuck as you is an odd comfort.
Stay Comfortable
Comfort is crucial. You’re in this for the long haul, so make it bearable.
Dress in Layers
Airports are like winter on one side and summer on the other. You might be boiling while waiting for coffee and freezing at your gate. So, dress in layers, or if you didn’t pack for this, try using a scarf or hoodie for makeshift warmth.
Stretch and Move Around
Staying in one place for hours can make you feel like a piece of forgotten luggage. Walk around the airport, stretch, and keep your body active. Some airports even have yoga rooms or walking tracks.
Sleep, If You Can
Sleeping in an airport is not a glamorous experience. But if you’re in for a long wait (and I mean, really long), getting some sleep will help pass the time.
Finding the Best Sleeping Spot
Search for a quieter part of the airport, ideally away from the bustling food court or crying babies. Some airports have designated sleep areas; even if they don’t, find somewhere with less foot traffic. A sleep mask and earplugs will become your best friends in this scenario.
Make Use of Airport Lounges
If you’re stuck for several hours or more, investing in a pass to an airport lounge may be worth investing in. These lounges often offer comfy seating, free snacks, and sometimes showers. In the long run, considering those overpriced airport snacks, it could save your sanity (and your wallet).
Managing Stress and Anxiety
It’s natural to feel stressed when things don’t go according to plan. But an airport delay doesn’t have to be a full-blown disaster.
Practice Mindfulness
When you’re feeling overwhelmed, mindfulness can help ground you. Sit down, close your eyes, and focus on breathing for a few minutes. There are even apps designed to guide you through short mindfulness exercises. You might get a few weird looks, but they’re just jealous you’re calm while they’re stressing out.
Stay Updated on Your Flight
Don’t just sit there wondering what’s going on. Check the flight boards regularly and sign up for text updates from the airline. Staying informed helps reduce the anxiety of uncertainty.
How to Stay Fed Without Breaking the Bank
Airport food is notoriously expensive, but you’ll need a game plan when hunger strikes.
Bring Your Own Snacks
If you’re the prepared type, you’ve already packed a couple of protein bars or trail mix. These will come in handy when you’re stuck for hours with nothing but a $15 sandwich in sight.
Explore Local Food Options
If you’re stuck for a long time, venture beyond the typical fast-food joints and see if your airport has local food stands or restaurants. Some larger airports offer cuisines, giving you a taste of the local flavor while stranded.
Socialize (But Know When to Retreat)
When you’re bored, conversation can help pass the time. Talk to fellow travelers, share stories, and commiserate over your mutual delays.
Striking Up a Conversation
There’s something about airport delays that brings out the talkative side in people. Maybe it’s the shared misery, or perhaps it’s just the sheer boredom. Either way, don’t be afraid to talk with someone beside you. You never know; they could have insider tips on surviving your delay or a funny story.
Know When to Retreat
That being said, don’t feel obligated to chat the entire time. If you need some alone time to recharge, retreat to your own space and enjoy the solitude. Noise-canceling headphones can do wonders for creating your oasis in a busy airport.
FAQs
How can I stay entertained during long airport delays?
Download movies, read a book, or enjoy people-watching. These activities help pass the time and distract you from the frustration of being stuck.
What essentials should I have if I’m stuck in an airport?
Always have snacks, water, a portable charger, and layers of clothing. These items will keep you fed, hydrated, and comfortable.
Is it worth paying for an airport lounge pass during a delay?
Yes, especially if you expect a long wait. Lounges often provide food, drinks, and comfortable seating, making your delay more bearable.
What should I do if I’m stuck overnight at the airport?
Try to find a quiet spot to rest. Use a sleep mask and earplugs, and dress in layers for comfort. Consider investing in a lounge pass for access to better amenities.
How do I manage stress when stuck in an airport?
Stay informed about your flight, practice mindfulness, and accept that the situation is out of your control. Distract yourself with entertainment to reduce anxiety.
What is the best way to find food during a long airport delay?
If you didn’t bring your own snacks, explore the airport for local food stands or sit-down restaurants. Larger airports often offer a variety of dining options.
Final Thoughts on Surviving an Airport Delay
Being stuck in an airport is never fun, but with some planning and a good attitude, it doesn’t have to be miserable. Remember to stay calm, find comfort, and entertain yourself while you wait. Before you know it, you’ll be boarding your flight, and this airport saga will be nothing but a story to tell at your next dinner party.
Top 10 Busiest Airports in the World
These airports handle millions of passengers annually, serving as critical hubs for international travel. Here’s a list of the world’s busiest airports by passenger traffic.
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) – Atlanta, USA
- Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) – Beijing, China
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – Los Angeles, USA
- Dubai International Airport (DXB) – Dubai, UAE
- Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) – Tokyo, Japan
- O’Hare International Airport (ORD) – Chicago, USA
- London Heathrow Airport (LHR) – London, UK
- Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) – Shanghai, China
- Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) – Paris, France
- Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) – Dallas, USA
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