Travel

Stuck At The Airport? Here's How To Sleep Safely And Comfortably (Mostly)

When you’re stuck at an airport due to flight delays or long layovers, actually sleeping can feel impossible, but there are some ways to get some shut-eye.

Stranded Overnight? Master The Airport Sleep

We’ve all been there, stuck at the airport as severe weather grounds flights. Or maybe you chose to skip the hotel for a long, but not that long layover.

Whatever the reason, having to catch some shut-eye can be a challenge because the airport never sleeps, but here are some ways to make the best of it.

Location, Location, Location!

A young woman naps on an airport bench, ears in headphones, clutching a phone, with a backpack beside her; The busy terminal hums in the background as travelers move past — STOCK PHOTO - A young woman naps on an airport bench, ears in headphones, clutching a phone, with a backpack under head.
(Getty Images)

Choosing where to sleep is critical, you need to consider not just comfort but safety. So while you might want to curl up in a quieter, darker corner of a terminal, consider staying near your gate. Not just for convenience but you’ll be around other travelers, providing a level of safety in numbers.

If you want to feel even more secure, seek out security and sleep nearby.

Arrival lounges may be a more comfortable area to set up, because they’re usually built to accommodate people who may have to wait awhile, so you’ll find more seating.

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Airports across the U.S. and the globe have vastly different rules or tolerance for sleeping overnight. Luckily, there’s a website dedicated to finding and sharing the best places to sleep at airports.

Protect Your Stuff!

Some airports have luggage lockers or storage areas, but if that’s not an option for you, have your luggage surround you if you’re bedding down on the floor or across a bank of seats.

Turn your luggage zippers to face you, that way if they’re moved you’re more likely to wake up.

Keep your passport, wallet, phone and other important items on you and use your handbag, backpack or laptop bag as a pillow, so those precious items are close to you.

Dress For Success

The temperatures inside airports can vary wildly so dress in layers that you can peel off, or bundle on to get cozy when it’s time to sleep.

Airports are loud so be prepared with headphones or ear buds, eye masks to block out bright lights and maybe even a hoodie to help shutter out noise and light.

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Set Your Alarm(s)!

This may be the most important tip of all. Set an alarm, maybe even multiple alarms if you know you’re a heavy sleeper! The last thing you want is to wake up and see your flight pulling out of the gate, that could guarantee you another night of sleeping at the airport.

Nothing beats wisdom from experience, so share what you’ve done when you’ve had to bunk at an airport.