How to Sleep at the Airport: Tips and Warnings

Why should I stay overnight at the airport?

There are unsuccessful connections, when there is no point in going to the city, but you want to sleep. The flight may be delayed or canceled. Plus, on regular travel, spending an overnight stay at the airport can save hundreds of dollars.

Can I sleep at all airports?

Honestly, you can't sleep in any. But some airports are indulgent to sleepers, while others close at night. It is better to clarify the operating hours of the airport, where you may have to spend the night.

Is it safe?

Not really. The airport is not a train station, but there are also enough thieves, crooks and people with impure intentions here. It is best to sleep where surveillance cameras are installed, or contact airport security, they will tell you a safe place.

And I'm worried about the luggage. How can you protect it?

Hide small things, money and documents under clothes. Luggage should be handcuffed to the arm or leg. We're serious. Toy ones will do.

What will come in handy if I still decide to spend the night at the airport?

Inflatable mattress or pad, headrest. Airport seats are not designed for sleeping, and you will likely be uncomfortable lying on them. Keep in mind that at many airports, workers are especially unfriendly to sleeping on the floor, resort to this method in the most extreme cases.
Sweater (or plaid), put on a T-shirt under it. It is difficult to guess what the temperature will be inside the airport, where you have to spend the whole night. Prepare for the heat and cold.
Earplugs or headphones. There is no need to disturb your sleep with the announcements of boarding and the conversations of the neighbors in the waiting room.
Water and biscuits. Most shops and cafes close at night. The rest of the coffee shops can overcharge such a price that an overnight stay in a hotel with dinner included will be cheaper.
Book. You may find it difficult to fall asleep in a new and less peaceful environment. The book will help pass the time.
Tee. Charges at airports are few and may not be enough for everyone. In order not to wait for a night colleague to charge all his equipment, invite him to charge together using a tee.
Wet wipes. The airport has a lot of dirty surfaces. And dragging with all the luggage to the washstand before dinner is not very convenient.
Cash and credit card. You need to consider situations in which an airport employee will demand a bribe to use the toilet or you have to pay for Wi-Fi.

How to behave?

The rules are simple. Do not disturb others, do not make noise, do not attract too much attention to yourself and try to behave as adequately as possible. Allowing you to spend the night at the airport, its employees have already met you halfway. Respect their kindness. If airport workers are not very enthusiastic about your idea of spending the night in the terminal, try to pity them - it works.

Would I sleep on the plane?

Quite possible. Write on a piece of paper a request to wake you up before departure, indicating the time (preferably in English). Usually, airport visitors willingly wake up travelers. But it is better to additionally insure yourself with an alarm clock.

What if you can't sleep at the airport?

If sleep at the airport is not possible, here are the simplest options: rent a hotel room or a hostel near the airport. In some countries, it is cheaper to rent a car for a day and sleep in the parking lot. Some airports offer sleeping boxes right in the terminals. Always have a backup plan. An overnight stay at the airport is far from a 100% reliable undertaking.