A view of an airplane wing through the window during a flight, highlighting tips on how to survive a long layover by Lery Hago Travels.

Here’s how to survive a long layover

Layovers are, well, a necessary evil of international travel. While a couple of hours might fly by, layovers over 3 hours can leave you feeling like you’ve aged a decade by the time you board your next flight.

As a Nigerian traveler, it’s tempting to just tough it out—after all, missing your flight is the stuff of nightmares, particularly when it’s an international one. But if you find yourself in one, you don’t have to suffer through it. There are plenty of ways to turn those hours into something much more pleasant while ensuring you don’t miss your connection.

For short layovers

If your layover is under 7 hours, you’re in the “stay put” category. Leaving the airport could be risky, as you might not have enough time to get back through security and reach your gate. Instead, focus on maximizing your comfort while waiting.

Here are some activities to consider for shorter layovers:

First, get organized
Double-check your boarding gate and departure time. Keep an eye on the information boards, as gates and schedules sometimes change unexpectedly. Confirm where you need to be and give yourself enough time to get there.

Binge-watch a series or movie
Download your favourite series or movies offline before your trip so you can catch up on them. While many airports have free Wi-Fi, they might be less safe and unreliable.

Shop or window shop
Airports are home to duty-free shops, luxury brands, and quirky souvenir stores. So browse around. You might spot that one-of-a-kind item you didn’t even know you needed. Just be mindful of your spending!

Grab a bite
If you haven’t already eaten, use this opportunity to enjoy a meal. This could be a fun way to sample the culture of the country you’re passing through.

Freshen up
Some airports have showers available, either in the public areas or through airport lounges. A quick freshen-up can do wonders for your mood, especially after a long flight.

Check for express lanes or fast-track services
For short layovers, you might want to speed up security or immigration processes by using express lanes if they’re available. Ask airport staff if there are any services that could help you cut down wait times.

For long layovers (10 hours or more)

Now, if your layover is long, you’ve got options to do more than just sit and stare at your watch. Here’s how to handle it:

Get some sleep

If your layover stretches overnight or during the wee hours of the morning, booking a hotel room nearby might be your best bet. Many airports have hotels on-site or within a short shuttle ride to help you rest and freshen up without the stress of staying in the terminal.

Some airlines might provide accommodation if your layover was extended unexpectedly or due to delays. Though this is not applicable to every layover.

If you choose to sleep at the airport, keep your belongings secure. Use luggage locks and put your valuables in a carry-on that stays close to you at all times.

Sightseeing near the airport

If your Nigerian passport allows you visa-free entry to the country of your layover, or if your visa permits it, then step out to do some sightseeing. Make sure to research reliable transportation options. There’s nothing worse than thinking you’ve got plenty of time only to be stuck in a traffic jam.

Here’s how to do it right:

Research in advance to find out how far major attractions are from the airport.
Check if the country requires any additional documentation for travelers in transit.
Plan your return time carefully, factoring in time for traffic and customs.
Keep your passport, visa, and boarding pass with you, as you’ll need them to get back into the airport.

Stay active

Walk around the airport, especially if you’ve been seated for a long flight. Many large airports have walking paths, art exhibits, gardens, and viewing decks. It’s a good way to stretch your legs and explore.

Stay in an airport lounge

If you’ve got lounge access, do yourself a favor and head straight there. Some lounges have sleep pods and massage chairs in addition to Wi-Fi, complimentary food and drinks.

Many Nigerian banks, such as GTBank, Zenith, and Access Bank, offer international lounge access through premium or special cards. You can check if your card provides these benefits before you travel. If not, you can buy a one-time access to a lounge, which can be well worth the investment for long layovers.