Living in Australia means we have to travel quite far to experience the rest of the world. Long haul flights often go hand in hand with long layovers in airports. This can draw your journey out to 30+ hours before you finally reach your destination. Here are some tips for making the most of your airport layover:

Explore the City

If you have got several hours before your connecting flight, why not leave the airport and experience a new city? Many airports offer city tours for layovers that take place over daylight hours. You can also explore the city on your own, this will just take more planning as you need to decide what you would like to see. 

This makes the layover another part of the travel experience, rather than watching the clock as you wait for the holiday to start. 

Make sure you have enough time to return to the airport for your next flight. 

Enjoy the Amenities

Some small airports do not have much in the way of entertainment within them, however, the bigger airports can seem like a city in themselves. Singapore airport has a sunflower garden, a butterfly garden, cinemas, and a range of other things to enjoy. If your stop-over is in Seoul, South Korea, you can practice your swing at the Incheon International Airport’s driving range. 

It is worth just stretching your legs and exploring the myriad of shops in each airport terminal. Or you can find a nice café to sit and people watch while sipping on a cappuccino. 

If you are flying business class or have an elite status membership with the airline, you generally get access to the airport lounges, where you can enjoy complimentary food and drinks. However, many lounges also allow you to purchase a day pass. 

If your stopover is not long enough for you to comfortably venture out into the city, these features are sure to help you pass the time. 

Get a Massage

Travelling can be stressful and after sitting in a cramped seat for hours, it can mean you have tight muscles by the time you get off the plane. Many airports have day spas you can visit during your layover to ensure you start your trip feeling relaxed. 

Check-in to a Hotel

If your layover is taking place overnight — or if you just really need to get some sleep — you can check into one of the airport hotels. This way you can have a warm shower, change your clothes and get on your next flight refreshed and ready to start your holiday.