It happens, right? Either there’s a delay, or you were so worried about lines for your cheap flight that you just got to the airport too early. Then, you’re stuck with the seemingly impossible task of making the time pass. Let’s face it: airports were not built for fun. Even though the amenities have mushroomed over the past decade and a half, an airport isn’t exactly an amusement park. Fortunately, a few hours in an airport don’t have to be a total drag. Here are some travel tips on five ways you can make the most of it:
- Do what you would do at home: every gate area, it feels, has a television tuned to CNN. Did you know that Qaddafi is no longer a menace to Libya? You would if you had time to burn waiting for a flight! Catch up on world events this way, and if the TV doesn’t turn you on, pick up a newspaper or magazine. You never know what some crazy celebrity could be up to.
- Exercise your mind: I don’t travel without my Kindle. Ever. Reading is both enjoyable, and a great book definitely makes the time pass. Novels, especially, are ideal for this, because they are long enough to make even the most difficult of delays disappear. If you aren’t digital, always travel with a couple of books, in case your mood changes unexpectedly – or in case you need more reading material than you expected.
- Let it flow: airports do have bars for a reason. Sit down; grab a drink. Or two. Or however many. Just be sure to drink responsibly. Hey, you never know who you’ll meet: it might be your next boss – professionally or domestically!
- Create value: do you ever feel like there isn’t enough time in the day at the office? Well, the airport is poised to solve that problem for you. Find a power outlet and Wi-Fi, if it’s available. Take advantage of the opportunity to be productive…you’ve always wanted it.
- Examine the backs of your eyelids: if the weather is bad or your delay is long, just sleep. You’ll be refreshed when you get home, which is time you’ll want to enjoy most.