A 20-hour layover can feel extremely long, but with the right planning, it can turn into a surprisingly enjoyable part of your trip. Many international hubs are designed to accommodate long layovers, offering lounges, rest areas, entertainment zones, indoor gardens, and even transit hotels. Instead of feeling stuck, you can treat it like a mini-adventure.
Airports That Often Have Long Layovers
Long layovers are common in major transit hubs, especially for international connections. Some airports known for long transit times include:
- Doha Hamad International Airport (DOH) – Often used for Middle East and Europe connections. Great facilities, lounge access, quiet rooms, spas, and even a swimming pool.
- Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) – Famous for being the world’s best airport with movie theaters, gardens, free city tours, and sleeping areas.
- Dubai International Airport (DXB) – A major hub for European, Asian, and American routes with 24/7 shops, restaurants, and lounges.
- Istanbul Airport (IST) – One of the largest transit hubs in the world for flights to Europe and Asia.
- Tokyo Narita & Haneda (NRT/HND) – Often used for intercontinental routes with great amenities and comfortable rest areas.
What to Bring in Your Cabin Bag for a Long Layover
Packing the right items in your cabin bag can make a long layover much easier. Here are essentials to keep with you:
- Chargers & power bank – Outlets may be limited, so a backup battery is important.
- Toiletries – Toothbrush, toothpaste, face wipes, lip balm, moisturizer, and deodorant help you freshen up.
- A change of clothes – Especially underwear and a comfortable shirt.
- Travel pillow & eye mask – For better rest in airport seating or quiet rooms.
- Snacks – Airport food is expensive; having your own snacks saves time and money.
- Documents – Passport, boarding pass, and any visa information must stay with you.
- Entertainment – Download movies or offline playlists before your trip in case of slow airport Wi-Fi.
What to Do During a 20-Hour Layover
Inside the airport, activities depend on the facilities available. Some ideas:
- Relax in an airport lounge (many allow paid access).
- Explore indoor gardens, museums, or art installations.
- Watch a movie if the airport has a cinema.
- Get a massage or visit a spa.
- Try local snacks available in airport restaurants.
- Sleep in sleeping pods or transit hotels.
Going Outside the Airport
If your layover is more than 10–12 hours, exploring the city can be a great idea. But there are important things to check:
- Do you need a visa?
Some countries require a transit visa even if you plan to leave for only a few hours (example: the US, Canada, China, and Australia).
Others allow visa-free entry for transit passengers. - Time calculation
Include immigration lines, transportation time to the city, and time to return before your next flight (at least 3 hours before departure). - Check if your baggage is checked-through
If you need to collect your luggage, it will take extra time. - Going out of the airport means you’ll need mobile data.
If you stay inside the airport, you’ll have full Wi-Fi access, but if you decide to go outside and stay overnight, you’ll need internet for less than a day. With Eskimo eSIM, you get free 500MB of global data that works in 140+ countries at no cost. Just install it and sign up using a voucher code. Read more here.
FAQs
Can I book a shower or sleep pod even if I’m not staying in an airport hotel?
Yes. Many international airports offer pay-per-use showers, nap rooms, and sleep pods separate from transit hotels.
Can I access airport lounges without a business-class ticket?
Absolutely. Most lounges allow walk-in passengers for a fee, or you can use lounge-access memberships like Priority Pass, LoungeKey, or DragonPass. Some credit cards also include free or discounted lounge access.
How early should I return to the airport after going outside?
For international flights, return at least 4 hours before departure to allow time for security checks, immigration, and walking to your gate.
What’s the difference between transit and a layover at the airport?
Transit = stay inside the same plane or just a short stop, no immigration.
Layover = change planes and wait for your next flight; can be several hours or more.
