Getting stuck in the airport for 2 or 3 hours can be annoying. But, when things go haywire with your flight, and you get stuck in the airport overnight, you may need some tips to help you cope. So, before you approach the airline attendant's desk again to complain about their lack of hotel vouchers, take a look at these tips. They should help you get through the night and get ready for your flight in the morning.
Stay calm. If you've already dealt with a rude attendant, walk down to the next attendant's desk. If you've been placed on standby, keep checking in to see if spaces have opened up on earlier flights that you can get a confirmed seat on.
If the airport doesn't offer cots, or you don't feel comfortable sleeping on a cot, find a massage chair. These are much more comfortable than the regular chairs in the airport. When you do sleep, keep your personal belongings close by. Place them right next to you to avoid losing them or having someone take them.
If you brought a notepad or a laptop with you on your trip, or if you can find a few pieces of paper, write about the day's events. Sleeping overnight in an airport can be an adventure, so why not keep record of it. Write down all of the humorous, frustrating, annoying and entertaining things that you encounter throughout the night.
Talk to people around you and make a new friend. Sometimes friendships can be formed in the oddest places, even in the airport. If you brought your laptop, play some computer games. Challenge a person near you to a game of Monopoly, 21 or another fun computer game.
If you're fed up with the airline's service that has caused you to be stuck in the airport, write a letter to them while everything is fresh on your mind. Be professional and demand compensation for your troubles in the form of vouchers.
Call friends and loved ones and chat with them. Sometimes in these situations, hearing the voice of someone who cares about you can put you at ease.
Before it gets too late, treat yourself to a nice dinner and grab some snacks. Most airport restaurants and stores close at around 10 p.m. or earlier, so grab a couple bottles of water and a few pieces of fruit to tide you over until the morning.
