11 Easy Ways to Pass Time Quickly and Make the Most of a Long Layover

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We’ve all been there…stuck…in an airport for more than 4, 6, 12, and even 24 hours. I’ve been there. Twice. And let me tell you…it’s brutal.

You think, “I’ll just get through it.” But without a plan, those hours crawl by like a bad movie on repeat. You’re bored, uncomfortable, and just trying to survive.

I didn’t enjoy it, not one bit. But you don’t have to suffer like I did. With a little planning, you can turn a dreaded layover into something actually enjoyable. Let’s make sure your next layover doesn’t suck.

1. Read a New Book

Reading is one of the best things you can do for your mind…it literally rewires your brain. Airports are filled with stores selling books. Ask someone for a recommendation or grab one you’ve already packed. Then, find a cozy spot and start reading.

When someone nearby seems curious, invite them to join you. Discussing the book’s themes, characters, and twists with strangers can turn into a surprisingly deep and memorable experience. It’s a fantastic way to kill time, meet new people, and engage in meaningful conversation.

2. Turn the Airport Into Your Gym

Dr. Natalie Nevins says yoga is intended to, “build strength, awareness, and harmony in both the mind and the body.” And most airports offer plenty of space for a workout if you know where to look.

Find a quiet, open area and use it for a full-body workout, some yoga, or stretching. You can use your own body weight for exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups.

If you’re not up for that kind of exercise, most airports are often filled with long corridors perfect for brisk walks or jogs. This keeps you active and also helps combat the stiffness and fatigue that come with long flights.

3. Write a Postcard to Your Future Self

One of my favorite mottos in life is–the only thing you can change in this world is you. So, if you’re stranded in the airport and going out of your mind, make sure your mindset is in the right place.

Purchase a postcard from the airport and take a moment to write a letter to your future self. Reflect on where you are in life, how you’re feeling at that exact moment, and what you hope to achieve in the future. Then, you can mail it to yourself or tuck it away in your luggage to read on a special occasion down the road.

This simple act of self-reflection can be incredibly grounding and offers a unique way to connect with your future self, turning your layover into a time for introspection.

6. Try a New Restaurant

I don’t know about you, but most of the time, my layovers are less than 1.5 hours, and I never get to try any of the amazing restaurants.

Instead of grabbing a quick bite out of convenience, make a point to sit down and savor the meal. Use this time to relax, enjoy the atmosphere, and even strike up a conversation with the staff or fellow diners. If you’re feeling adventurous, ask the waiter for a recommendation or try the restaurant’s signature dish. It’s a great way to discover new flavors and maybe even find a new favorite dish.

If you’re a foodie, take it a step further by documenting your meal. Snap photos, jot down tasting notes, and share your experience on social media or in a travel journal. Indulging in a good meal can significantly elevate your mood and make the layover feel more like a mini-vacation rather than a boring wait. You got this!

4. Learn the Basics of a New Language

Download an app or turn on YouTube to learn the basics of a new language. Believe me your brain will be challenged and the time will fly.

I have been learning Spanish for four years and I’m still learning. Your layover could be the inspiration you need to give it a try. Spend the time learning essential phrases, greetings, and vocabulary. It’s a practical use of time that can also enhance your travel experience if your destination speaks that language.

Even if you don’t become fluent, the effort to learn something new will keep your mind engaged and make your layover feel productive. Plus, it’s a skill you can continue to build on in future trips. Just give it a try.

5. Start a Travel Journal

Studies show that journaling can result in fewer negative emotions in response to stressors. So, turn your layover into the beginning of a new habit by starting a travel journal. Use this time to document your journey—what’s going on in your life. Maybe include sketches, notes on the people you’ve met, or even snippets of conversations overheard in the airport. A travel journal will help pass the time and create a personal keepsake of your travels.

6. Have a Mini Film Festival

If you have a laptop or tablet, curate your own mini film festival. Choose a theme—like classic comedies, foreign films, or documentaries—and binge-watch a few selections during your layover.

You could even invite others nearby to join in and make it a social event. Sharing a good movie can bring people together and make the time fly by. By the end of your layover, you’ll have enjoyed some great entertainment and possibly made a few new friends. I love it.

7. Plan Your Next Destination

It’s not the end of the world that you have a long layover. It’s just a temporary snag. So on to the next.

Create a vision board in something like Canva of what you want to do next. The artistic nature of this activity will work the right side of your brain and make the time go so quickly.

You can even talk to the people around you about their travels. Maybe something will spark your curiosity.

8. Get Some Work Done

There’s nothing wrong with getting a little work done while you’re traveling. You can do some planning, writing, or reading if you have the time. I’m not a big fan of working on vacations, but I’m a writer, so this never feels like work.

9. Indulge in Some Self-Care

Layovers are the perfect excuse to slow down and give yourself a little extra TLC. Start by seeking out quiet spots in the airport—some terminals have dedicated relaxation zones with comfortable seating and low lighting.

If you can find a spa or massage service, treat yourself to a chair service with a neck and shoulder massage or a quick foot rub to ease the travel tension. Even something as simple as taking the time to stretch, hydrate with herbal tea, or practice a little yoga can make a huge difference in how you feel when you board your next flight.

10. Try Meditating or Mindfulness

You can also turn to meditation or mindfulness apps to center yourself. Have you heard of the CALM app? I love it. It has naptime stories, quiet, relaxing music, and guided meditations to help you reset and refresh before your next flight.

This isn’t just about killing time—it’s about using that time to arrive at your destination feeling more relaxed, refreshed, and ready to enjoy your trip.

Indulging in self-care during a layover transforms what could be a stressful wait into an opportunity to recharge and take care of yourself. It’s the perfect way to turn downtime into something positive and restorative.

Featured Image Credit: PeopleImages.com – Yuri A and Shutterstock