NAVIGATE: The Long Layover
LAYOVERS…
…synonymous with “inconvenience.” Let’s be honest, no one wants to be stuck in an airport with overpriced food, uncomfortable chairs and only two charging ports per terminal.
Nor...having to “Usain Bolt” through the airport as your full government name is being called over the loudspeaker because it’s final boarding on your connecting flight.
Until about a year ago, my first preference had always been nonstop flights...second best would be a direct flight, as long as I didn’t have to deplane. Yes, there is a difference between nonstop and direct. However, during the past year I began looking for ways to get more out of my travel. I started to take advantage of long layovers.
I know what you’re thinking…and no, I’m not referring to a 5-hour layover in Utah. For clarification, a long layover by my standards is 10+ hours for day, over 15+ for overnight. The location is either somewhere desirable domestically or easily maneuverable internationally. Now, let’s be clear. This HAS to make sense. You must take into account a few important factors: location, length of time, luggage, day vs. overnight and costs.
If you take away nothing else from this read, the most important piece of advice I can give is: Have A Plan. As I often say, you do not have to be an expert to travel. Navigating certain scenarios is usually common sense driven. If not, Google is just a few clicks away.
There is nothing worse than being somewhere with time to kill and no idea what to do. Equally relevant; make sure the location is somewhere you actually want to be. A long layover in Miami, FL will leave quite a different impression than one in Boise, Idaho. Have a general idea of the location before you book and some sort of itinerary before you depart. I typically pick an area that is easy to get to, has a lot of activities/tourist attractions and of course, food. My go to’s are: must see attractions, adventurous activities, art museums, shows/concerts and restaurants. This is the perfect time to fully indulge yourself in your passions and hobbies...try to be a little more adventurous than usual. You’re only in town for a few hours, right?
- Speaking of time. When making note of how long the layover is, make sure you factor in going back through TSA and getting through customs, if applicable. These formalities could essentially eat away at several hours, easily turning an 8 hr. layover into 4, and at that point, is it even worth it? Also, the time of day plays a significant role. Day layovers are not the same as overnights. Depending on where you are, there may be a block of time when things to do will become extremely limited. Such is particularly the case if you, ill advisedly, decide to not secure accommodations...a very bold move.
- Baggage. In regards to additional costs and storage, this will depend heavily on how you booked your tickets. In theory, your baggage will remain at the airport if your booked ticket includes the extended layover, pending that you are not required to retrieve it. However, if you booked separate tickets, have a carry-on, or have to claim your baggage, make sure you are prepared. Dragging a suitcase through a city isn’t ideal at all. Baggage storage is available in a few airports. Otherwise, there is typically somewhere nearby that will provide storage… usually hotels or transit services.
- Pack [and dress] accordingly. Put any valuables in a personal bag that you won’t mind carrying on your person. I’d also strongly suggest having the necessary toiletries with you for an all day adventure. With love, you don’t want to be that person on the plane, ripe and raw. Neither do I want to be the person trapped between the window and body odor.
Long layovers are not ideal for every trip. I take advantage when they are unavoidable or can save me a significant amount of money. In addition, long layovers are great for those destinations that may be more appealing to you as short visits rather than long-term vacations. Sometimes just a taste is enough to satisfy my appetite.
Happy Travels.