Airport delays are a frustrating part of modern travel, often caused by a mix of overbooked schedules, air traffic congestion, weather disruptions, and staffing shortages. In fact, UK airports are not only operating at capacity, but passenger numbers are expected to keep rising. So, if waiting around at the airport is inevitable, why get stressed about it? Use the time to learn something new, get in some ‘me’ time, or even exercise your imagination. Here’s how.
Keep your brain active with games or learning apps
If you peek over at what your fellow travellers are doing on their phones, chances are they’re playing a game. There’s a reason that games are a classic time-killer – they’re engrossing and will keep your mind sharp. The good news is that mobile options are better than ever so you can access games no matter where you are. Try puzzles, multiplayer games, or entertainment options like jackpot slots if you fancy something with a bit of excitement.
Or, if you’re headed abroad, why not use the extra time to learn the language of where you’re headed? There are numerous apps that make it fun and easy to pick up a few words or phrases within minutes – and they’ll save and track your progress so you can continue building on the tiny snippets of time that you devote to your learning journey.
Whatever you decide to do, use a VPN or secure connection when accessing the airport’s Wi-Fi so that your personal information is protected from cyberthreats and hackers.
Create a digital travel journal or scrapbook
Why not turn this unexpected downtime into creativity? As you sit in the airport lounge or café, start a digital journal or travel scrapbook on your phone or tablet. Snap photos of your surroundings, write meaningful captions, and collect small mementos like receipts or napkins with logos for later. You could even record a quick video diary for your future self.
Observe people and imagine their lives
Sometimes the simplest ideas are the most entertaining. As you wait to board, sit back with a coffee and observe your fellow travellers. Where could they be going? Who are they meeting? Making up stories about fellow travellers is not only fun but oddly relaxing too – think of it as creating a movie in your head to pass the time.
Find joy in the journey
Airport delays can be frustrating, but they don’t have to be dull. With a little creativity and the right tools, even the longest layover can become part of your adventure.
