12 Things to Do at the Airport Terminal to Pass the Time
Catching a flight can be stressful. Whether you are traveling for leisure or work, maybe even both, making sure you have an ample amount of time to get to your gate before your flight takes off is critical to reduce travel anxiety and any last-minute disasters. If you find yourself at the gate because you arrived extra early or are simply stuck due to a flight delay, here are some ideas on what you can do at the airport terminal to help pass the time.
Catch Up on Emails
One of the easiest ways to pass the time at the airport terminal is to catch up on emails. Especially if you are traveling for business during a work day, emails can pile up fast. Stay on top of your inbox so you can return to your work day seamlessly once you board your flight. Not traveling for work? Catch up on unread messages or finally clean out that inbox. Click "unsubscribe" from any email mailing lists you no longer wish to receive to avoid an overcrowded inbox. Your future self will thank you.
Charge All of Your Devices
When traveling, you will want to have all of your devices charged up so you can use them from the plane or as soon as you arrive at your final destination. If you are resting your feet, take some time to pull out your devices if there's a nearby outlet, and they can recharge while you do as well.
Find Something to Eat
You may have packed some airport snacks that are TSA-approved, but if you want a warm meal before your flight, check out the airport bars, food stands, and restaurants. The airport may surprise you with the multitude of delicious options on offer.
Explore the Airport
Many airports have their own personality. Some airports have art exhibits while others have bits of history set up in mini museums while still others have old airplanes set up to explore. It all depends on what city and airport you find yourself in, but take some time to get to know the airport before you take off. Keep your phone handy and check for updates in case something changes with your own flight.
Learn the Language
Not all trips may be international flights, but if you are planning an international trip, then spend your time at the airport terminal practicing the local language if you need to. Whether you have an app or are simply looking up a few of the main words and phrases, try and learn a few new words from the country you will be discovering soon.
Listen to a Podcast or Music
Another thing you can do while passing the time at the airport terminal is to listen to a meditation app, your favorite tunes, or a podcast. A meditation app can help zen you out if travel stresses you out while music can pump you up for your upcoming journey. Vacation mode is officially on. Or, if you find yourself behind on your favorite podcasts, have a marathon of listening to catch up.
People-Watch
If you are a fan of people-watching, then you will love spending a few extra hours in the airport people-watching. From families taking a big family vacation to friends going away for a big birthday celebration, there are always tons of new faces passing through the airport as they jet off to new places and spaces.
Read a Book or Two
If you are a bookworm, then grab yourself a hot cup of coffee or tea and settle in with a good book. Whether you brought your own book or picked up a few from the airport bookstore, arriving early at the gate just means more reading time.
Relax in a Lounge
If you really cannot stand the basic chairs at the airport gate then look for entry into an airport lounge. Whether you are a member of one or there is space to purchase a day pass, enjoy the VIP treatment while you wait for your flight to take off.
Return Phone Calls
Behind on phone calls? Take some time to catch up with family and friends while you wait for your flight. Need to get some steps in? Walk and talk while you catch up with buddies or family!
Do Some Shopping
Need some last-minute items before your trip, or to pick up some last-minute presents? Take some time to shop for yourself or others and be sure to check out some duty-free deals while you're there.
Walk the Terminal
Need inspiration for your next trip? Walk the terminal! It is one of the easiest ways to get inspiration for your next booking. For domestic flights, international flights, or both, walking the airport terminal and seeing where other passengers are traveling is a great way to get steps in and get ideas for your next destination. Just be sure to keep an eye on your flight in case something changes.
You Might Also Like
