5 Things to Do While Waiting for Your Connecting Flight

There are often many things to look forward to when taking a flight, going on a trip to a special destination on vacation or for a short visit. At such times, you’re unlikely to anticipate airport delays between connecting flights, as even the thought of it could cause you to roll your eyes. But sometimes, the inevitable still does happen and you’re left to figure out what to do with those extra hours. In today’s post, we’ve outlined a list of 5 things you can do to make the stay tolerable or even enjoyable before boarding your flight.

5 Ways to Make the Most of Airport Flight Delays

Depending on what time of the day it is, there’s a lot you can do with that ‘extra’ time you’ve got on your hands. While the experience isn’t exactly something you want to always have, the following tips will help to get you better prepared to make it worth the time.

Explore the airport environment

Depending on how much time you have till your next flight, it might be a good time to explore the airport and familiarize yourself with all there is to see. Sometimes, we may think we know a place all too well, until we realize we need to ask someone for directions on our next visit. It may also be that you’ve never really had to wait long at other times you visited, or it could as well be your first.

So, take yourself on a mini escape, immersing yourself in all the views and sights that the airport has to offer. Who knows, you might just find something to pique your interest and occupy your time such that you might have to set an alarm so you don’t miss your flight.

Spend time with people

Now these goes in different ways; you can spend time watching people from afar or strike up a conversation with a random stranger who appears interested. In the first instance, if you’re not open to having conversations, you can find a comfortable seat that gives you a good view where you can watch others do their thing.

The airport is the perfect place to do this, as there are often so many people so you don’t have to focus on the same person for too long. You can even catch some funny airport drama; watching people weigh their luggage at the counter or parents cautioning children from running off and getting lost. If you’re lucky to find someone to talk to, it’s a good time to genuinely meet other people, learn about their culture, their work, or even destination. Who knows, you might just find yourself a new buddy for life, but if it ends at the airport, that’s okay too.

Another fantastic thing you can do is to reach out to friends and loved ones while you wait. Could be someone you’ve not heard from in a while, or a loved one eager to know the progress of your trip.

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Begin or finish off a project

Delayed time is not wasted time. In fact, it can be a good time to begin a project you initially scheduled for later. This may be writing a book, finishing up a report, or even beginning a book based off the inspiration you get at the airport. It’s a good time to bring out your tablet or laptop and start typing away. If you need an area that’s more reserved and less busy, you can check out the nearby lounges which would offer you some privacy.

Your ‘project’ might not be writing essentially, it could be reading too, or catching up on a pending video course or assessment. The goal is to use the time well and not to bug yourself down with work especially when you’re trying to relax, so do only what’s best for your context.

Also, you may choose to continue reading a book or start a new one you got at a bookstore while exploring the airport. This could be a brain-stimulating thriller novel, self-development manual, or even a random magazine you found at the airport.

Brainstorm your next big move

If you’re by yourself on this trip, it means chances are that you have fewer distractions around you. It could be a good time to shut off the world’s noise and brainstorm your next big move! Sometimes, setbacks like delayed flights are just some of the ways the universe tries to get us to connect with ourself away from external hustle and bustle. It’s at such times we’re hit with some of our biggest ideas and we get to think through the process of executing them.

At this time, you want to pull out your journal to trap your flow of thoughts during your brainstorming process. To do this effectively, you might need to get off the busy area and move to a quieter place where you can think without distractions. Also, the brainstorming time might not be about a new idea, it could also be a perfect time to clarify your plans on how you want to spend the rest of time when you arrive your destination. The process allows you to visualize what’s ahead, mentally prepare for it, and prioritize what’s important to you.

CHECK OUT: THINGS TO DO ON A FLIGHT

Sight-see nearby attractions around the airport:

Depending on your location, there might be so much to see in the airport town. Some locations are visa-free especially for people who are on a connecting flight, and you can use the time to explore what the city as to offer. If it requires a visa, you can quickly make the relevant enquiries to help you get it and off you go! If your flight is a local flight, take the time to visit the local attractions that catch your fancy. This way, you don’t have to feel bored about having to wait for your connecting flight.

Looking forward to your next big trip or planning on going for one soon? The above tips will help you make the most of your time while waiting for your next flight should the need arise. If you need expert hands to help handle your booking plans or ideas on where to visit, at Vecta Travels, we’re your go-to choice.