Sleeping in Airports

Your flight departs super early in the morning or late at night? You would like to save money for accommodation? It seems natural and easy just to stay at the airport. Here are my tips for sleeping in an airport.

The cheapest or only available flight departs at a super inconvenient time. You could stay in a hostel for half a night. Sometimes the only possible transportation to the airport is an expensive cab. I’ve had this situation many times and quickly thought about just sleeping in the airport. This can be the cheapest option and also be quite comfortable depending on the airport.

My tips for sleeping in an airport:

1. Collect information

It is unlikely but some airports actually close down over night and you don’t want to end up on the street. For those who would like to get some airport-specific information I would recommend to check http://www.sleepinginairports.net/. The website also includes reviews and information about sleeping spots. Yes, some airports have some quite comfortable chairs/benches where you could sleep. The airport in Singapore provides free lockers where you can charge your phone.
You should also check whether the airport provide free drinking water and which stores are open over night. In case everything closes down you might want to bring something to eat or drink.

2. Print out your itinerary

For the check-in often only the passport is required, but this document cannot prove that you actually plan to travel. Some airports have patrols at night which are checking whether people really travel or are homeless. But don’t be scared I’ve only experienced it once at Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN).

3. What to do with your luggage?

Many airports offer to keep luggage for a certain amount of time for a fee. Coin lockers are similar to that. The easiest way is to keep your luggage with you. I’ve always done that. To do so I put all valuable things in my daypack and use it as a pillow. I also try to put my other backpack as close to me as possible. In case I think that it could get stolen I put my arm in one carrying loop.

4. Set an alarm

Although it is very unlikely for you to sleep like a baby, but I would recommend to set an alarm just in case.

5. Consider staying awake

Depending on your destination and time zone it might be helpful to stay awake to prevent a jetlag.

Du you have any tips regarding sleeping in airports? Would you like to share your experience? Do it in the comment section below 🙂

Don’t Panic!