We’ve all been there. Sitting at the gate, after going through security, watching the minutes crawl by as you wait for your plane to finally board. It can feel endless. But with a bit of planning, airport downtime can actually be a boon while waiting for your flight. No responsibilities, just time you can spend however you like. Here are just a few ideas of how you can transform those hours.
Relax in A Lounge
The mythical airport lounge – typically tucked away behind frosted glass doors or a reception desk, holding all sorts of possibilities. Access is easier than you might think, with an array of refreshments and an oasis of calm ready to be enjoyed.
Given how expensive airport restaurants typically are, the cost of airport lounge access usually isn’t that much more. For a slight upgrade, you can have better Wi-Fi and comfy chairs to enjoy before your flight. Pre-booking will often save you money, so take a look online for an airport lounge in the terminal you’ll be flying from and start planning a better journey.
Explore Shopping and Dining Options
These days, Duty Free has had a considerable upgrade to offer many different items beyond the basics. Some even rival shopping centres, with Heathrow even sporting a Harrods and Fortnum & Mason – ideal for snagging last-minute gifts for those you may be visiting. You can use your pre-flight time to track down the perfect something that will show how much that person means to you.
The restaurant options have also changed to offer delicious fare before you fly, giving you better quality dishes than those you’d typically find as part of in-flight refreshments. Stretch your legs and scout out what’s on offer before settling on your dining option. It’s also a great opportunity to sample a local delicacy for the last time before you jet off back home.
Engage in Entertainment and Leisure Activities
A number of modern airports now also feature entertainment areas to keep passengers happy before the flight, with arcade games and even VR experiences. Some even cater to a pre-flight pamper session, with airport spas or massage sessions to help you relax to the fullest before a long-haul flight.
Then there’s your phone, offering myriad apps that can entertain you before you board your flight. From language learning apps to help you communicate during your trip, to streaming services and even mobile games like free bingo, there’s something to suit every taste out there. Plus, power points can be found in many seating banks, so you don’t have to worry about depleting battery life.
Plan Ahead and Stay Productive
That quiet period before your journey begins is also the perfect time to look over your itinerary and pick out some bits to do while you travel. Downloading offline maps and researching spots to go can help you feel more prepared and minimise any stress you may be feeling. You can also create a ‘first day’ note, containing all the essential information you might need for your journey for easy reference.
Airport time doesn’t need to be lost time. There are plenty of ways to spend time whilst waiting for your flight that can enhance your overall experience – all it takes is a little planning and creativity.
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