Of course everyone would love direct flights, if not for any other thing, for the convenience. But it’s so sad that not all flights can be direct. There are times when you can’t even escape long flights with layovers and you just have to deal with the inconvenience and the long waiting time.

Holgi / Pixabay

For many people, they may not feel the long time they have to wait if the airport is so nice. As luck will have it, there are some countries with amazing airport facilities where passengers are offered so many things to do.

We know long layovers can be so frustrating, but with these tips, you will find a few ways to maximize your waiting time and not see the long stop as a problem.

GET SOME SLEEP

Having a good sleep is one of the ways for passing time. Sleeping on the plane may not be very comfortable, but while waiting to catch your flight, you may consider having a good sleep. This will even help you recharge your body and prepare you for the next flight.

EXPLORE THE CITY

If you have a good chunk of time, why not take a short trip to the see nice places in the city (if it’s not too far from the airport). But be time conscious so you do not arrive late for your next flight.

DO SOME EXERCISES

People can get tired after sitting for a long time on the plane. Trying out some simple exercises or yoga will help relieve stress and reenergises you. Some international airports have fitness centres so you can check in (if they have) to try some exercises before your next flight.

MEET AND CHAT WITH NEW PEOPLE

You may not want to approach someone who’s walking to catch his/her flight because there is a big chance that the conversation might be very short. You can get to meet and chat with other people waiting around your gate (they obviously might be going to the same destination as you) and from their you may end up having longer and productive conversation.

CATCH UP ON YOUR WORK

After flying for a few hours, you must have missed some emails, messages and all. During your layover, you can go through your mail to respond to unread ones. You can even set up a meeting for that waiting period if you have enough time.

READ SOME BOOKS  

Reading can be very engaging. If you do not have anything to do while waiting, consider reading a book.

WATCH PEOPLE AND GET INSPIRATION 

Atimes, inspiration comes from seeing things people around you do. The period you are waiting at the for our next flight, you can just sit at a place to watch people. Airport is a place where you’ll see a lot of different characters (check the different characters you see at the airport here) and from just watching them, you may get inspired to write or create something new.