Navigating Airport Layovers: Expert Insights on Making the Most of Your Time
For travelers embarking on journeys during the summer, fall, or winter, the prospect of planned airport connections or unexpected layovers due to flight delays or cancellations might arise. Rather than lamenting the time spent at the airport, it’s worthwhile to explore these expert recommendations for maximizing the interval between flights.
Opt for Lounge Access
A prevalent method to access airport lounges is through credit cards that partner with the Priority Pass lounge network. Globally, there are over 1,300 airport lounges available, as Ted Rossman, Senior Industry Analyst at Bankrate.com, explains. “Priority Pass boasts an extensive network of lounges, varying from those associated with specific airlines to more general-purpose lounges,” he observes.
For unlimited lounge visits, an annual Priority Pass membership costs around $470. Nonetheless, the same access can often be secured at no additional expense through credit cards like Chase Sapphire Reserve, Capital One Venture X, Amex Platinum, among others, notes Rossman. Additionally, certain lounges cater exclusively to customers of particular airlines.
Rossman adds, “These non-Priority Pass lounges extend membership to customers purchasing premium fare classes, holding specific elite statuses with the airline, or possessing high-end airline credit cards like the Delta Reserve Card.” Furthermore, credit card brands may have their own exclusive lounges. Amex’s Centurion Lounges, for instance, represent a notable historical instance.
“Recently, Chase and Capital One have introduced their own lounges, accessible to specific cardholders—typically those with higher annual fees,” Rossman informs FOX Business.
Strategize Layovers for Destination Exploration
Katy Nastro, a travel expert and representative of Going.com, emphasizes the significance of strategic layover planning, particularly during international travel. Whenever possible, she deliberately arranges extended layovers to explore a destination.
“For instance, I once arranged a nine-hour layover in Copenhagen, which allowed me to venture beyond the airport. I rented a bike and visited the renowned covered food market, TorvehallerneKBH, to savor Danish delicacies before resuming my journey,” she recounts.
Discovering Airport Perks
Navigating layovers can prove challenging, especially in smaller and outdated airports, according to Nastro. However, she highlights the advantage of connecting flights through major hubs that offer a plethora of opportunities for travelers.
For Nastro, traversing the New York region frequently, JFK airport serves as a favored choice for longer layovers. The TWA Infinity Pool at the TWA Hotel within the airport catches her attention. “Exploring the TWA Hotel not only fills the layover time effectively, but its rooftop pool and observation deck are accessible year-round, even to non-hotel guests,” she adds.
While fees and reservations are requisite during summer and fall, Nastro notes that no reservation is needed in winter and spring, with the pool being heated even in colder months. She amusingly suggests, “If flying via JFK, don’t forget to pack your swimsuit in your carry-on.”
