Having a bit of time to waste at the airport can be fun. If you are on your way to somewhere sunny, it’s a fantastic chance to get some food and browse the shops or to get started on your beach reading. It helps you get into the holiday mood and is much better than rushing around in a panic to make your flight on time. If you are on your way home, it can still be good to take some time out and reflect on your break and to delay your return to the real world for a little bit longer. But, what if it’s longer? If your flight is delayed by hours, and you are essentially stuck waiting in the airport, either eager to get on with your break or ready to get on with the giant to-do list that’s waiting for you back home? Then a few extra hours in the airport can be torturous. Here are some things that you could do to kill time.
Shop
Airports are often home to some fantastic shops. Some of the larger airports around the world now look more like shopping malls, as they are jam-packed with luxury brands and outlets. Airport shopping is even better if you’ve got one of the best airline credit cards. You could be saving air miles towards your next great adventure with every purchase.
If you’ve already got enough to carry and don’t fancy buying much, you can still waste time in the shops. Take the opportunity to try things on or look around at goods that don’t normally catch your eye and ask shop assistants for their advice. At home we tend to shop in a rush, only getting what we need. This is your chance to take a detailed look at what the shops have to offer. Some stores may even offer beauty treatments or samples for you to enjoy. You may even be able to get a cocktail!
Read
Taking a Kindle on holiday is always a good idea, it means you’ll never run out of reading material. But, if you haven’t, there’s bound to be some cheap books on offer in an airport shop. Take the chance to lose yourself in someone else’s story and escape the hustle and bustle of a busy airport.
Exercise
Most of the larger airports have large on-site hotels. These tend to have gyms or spas, and offer day passes to the public. Go for a swim or burn some stress off in the gym. If you haven’t got your gear with you, or don’t fancy getting sweaty, just go for a long walk around the airport to get your blood pumping and reduce any cramp and swelling from sitting for too long.
People Watch
The airport is the perfect place to people watch. Have a good look round. Pick someone out and try to come up with a story for them. Where do you think they are going? Why? What will they do? Look at who they are with, what they are wearing and any luggage they have for some story ideas. You could even write it all down.
Written by Jacqueline Chambers
Jacqueline Chambers is the founder of TGIFguide. She uses her innate skills as a natural “connector” to serve businesses, brands and individuals in the LA area and beyond.
