Alright, let me tell you, I’ve spent more time in airports than I care to admit. Layovers, ugh. They used to be the bane of my existence, but you learn a few things after a while, mostly the hard way. Staying safe isn’t rocket science, but you’d be surprised how many folks just… don’t think.
So, what’s my routine? It starts before I even leave the house.
First off, when I’m booking flights, I try to avoid those super sketchy, middle-of-the-night layovers in airports I don’t know, especially if I’m on my own. Sometimes you can’t help it, I get that. But if I have a choice, I pick a layover that’s long enough so I’m not sprinting like a madman, but not so long that I turn into a permanent airport resident. I also check what facilities the airport has. A little bit of homework goes a long way.
Okay, plane’s landed, I’m in layover limbo. What’s next?
The very first thing I do, before even thinking about coffee or the bathroom, is find the departures board. I locate my next gate. Then I physically walk to that gate. Yep, even if it’s miles away. I want to see where it is, how busy it is, what’s around it. Only then do I start to relax a tiny bit. I also double-check the gate on the airport’s app or screens every so often. Gate changes happen, folks. They happen a lot.
Let’s talk about your valuables. Seriously.
This is a big one. I keep my passport, wallet, phone, and any medication right on me. Like, in a small bag I wear across my chest or a secure pocket that’s hard to get into. Never, ever in the overhead bin on the plane if I can help it during the flight, and certainly not casually sitting on the seat next to me in the terminal. I’ve seen people doze off with their laptop just sitting there. It’s like an open invitation!
- I use a backpack that’s a bit tough to get into quickly, not one with easy-to-zip outer pockets for important stuff.
- If I have to put my bag down, like under my seat, I try to loop a strap around my leg or the chair leg. Sounds paranoid? Maybe. But my stuff has never walked off.
- I don’t flash cash or expensive gadgets around. Just be low-key.
Finding your little “nest” in the terminal.
Once I know my gate, I look for a spot to settle. Not too isolated, because that can be creepy and less safe. But not in the absolute chaos of a main thoroughfare either. I try to find a seat near other calm-looking travelers, or better yet, near an information desk or a place where airport staff are frequently present. Good lighting is a must. If I’m planning to catch some Zs, I look for those designated rest areas if they have them. And I try to sit with my back to a wall if possible, so I can see what’s coming.
Stay awake! Or at least, pretend to.
This is crucial, especially if you’re solo. It’s so tempting to just pass out, but that makes you a prime target. If I’m really tired, I’ll set alarms on my phone, like multiple ones. I might listen to music, but usually with only one earbud in, or I keep the volume super low. You need to be aware of what’s happening around you. It’s not about being scared, it’s just about being smart. I’ve seen folks totally oblivious, headphones on, dead to the world, bag wide open. Don’t be that person.
Food and bathroom breaks – the tactical decisions.
Okay, so you’re hungry or nature calls. If I’m with someone, great, one stays, one goes. If I’m alone, I take all my important stuff with me. All of it. Yes, it’s a pain to lug your carry-on into a tiny bathroom stall, but it’s better than coming back to an empty seat. For food, I try to pick places where I can keep an eye on my gate or my main spot. Sometimes I just grab something to go and eat it back at my chosen waiting area.
Dealing with other folks.
Most people in airports are just like you, trying to get somewhere. But you always get the odd ones. I’m polite, but I don’t overshare my travel plans or personal details with strangers who seem a bit too curious. A friendly nod is fine, but you don’t need to tell your life story. Trust your gut. If someone makes you feel uneasy, just pick up your stuff and move. No need for drama, just relocate.
Those dreaded overnight layovers…
If it’s a really long, overnight one, and I can swing it, an airport hotel is bliss. But if I’m roughing it in the terminal, I’m extra cautious. I look for spots where other overnighters are congregating. There’s a bit of safety in numbers. Again, secure your stuff like it’s gold. I’ve used my backpack as a pillow (with valuables inside, deep within) and looped straps around my limbs. Not comfy, but effective.
My personal layover checklist:
- Charge my phone: First thing I look for is an outlet after finding my gate. A dead phone in an airport is a special kind of misery and a safety issue.
- Stay hydrated: I buy a bottle of water after security. Keeps me feeling better.
- Walk around: Every hour or so, I get up and walk a bit, even if it’s just to the bathroom and back, or to re-check the departure board. Helps me stay awake and aware.
Look, at the end of the day, it’s mostly common sense. Airports are generally safe, but they’re busy, transient places. A little bit of planning and staying aware can make all the difference between a smooth layover and a total nightmare. I learned my lessons over many, many flights. Hopefully, you don’t have to learn them the hard way like I did with a few near misses in my early travel days!
