Things to Do When Stuck in the Airport

It's happened to most of us. Either we have to take a layover, or our flight is delayed. What do you do in the airport when you are stuck for so long? You could channel Tom Hanks in The Terminal, but building a mosaic is probably going to get you in trouble. Here are a couple ideas that will keep you out of trouble, but keep you busy too.

Books, Magazines, Newspapers

This is a staple of keeping yourself busy. Make sure you bring something to read, because you never know when your flight could be delayed. Of course, if you don't have something to read, most airports have bookstores and news outlets that you can pick something up.

Shop, Shop, Shop

If you are a stuck at the airport, you can always take the time to get some shopping done. Most airports have tons of shops that you can peruse through. I personally enjoy the media stores, where you can pick up magazines, or tiny souvenirs. There are also souvenir shops, which are fun, but usually more expensive. In the Minneapolis/St. Paul airport, there is a sports souvenir shop in the main concourse that is especially entertaining, complete with bobbleheads and mini golf games that you can actually play while waiting for your plane.

Cards, Games and Other Ideas

If you've gotten sick of reading and shopping, there are other things you can do. Once, on an especially long layover, I made it my goal to walk from one end of the airport to the other. I don't necessarily recommend that though, unless you are in a smaller airport.

If you are with another person, card games are always a good way to pass time. My personal favorites are Speed and Rummy. If you are by yourself, Solitaire or Spider Solitaire will help pass the time.

Once the card games are exhausted, or you can't find a deck, you are going to have to get creative. If you are with another person, try to make a game out of being there. Split up and see who can count the most restaurants, certain shops, people with a certain color bag, whatever. Or head to a sit down restaurant and watch people come in and out. You can try playing the games there as well.

Being stuck in an airport is never really any fun. But with a little creative thought, you can make the time pass quickly.