Solo Travel Tips: Sleeping in an Airport – The Reality of Budget Travel

Sleeping in an airport isn’t glamorous, but it’s a rite of passage for budget-conscious solo travelers. Here’s what it’s really like, plus practical solo travel tips to make it through the night.

Why Sleep in an Airport, Anyway?

If you’ve ever looked at hotel prices and thought, “I can save $200 if I just nap next to a vending machine,” congrats—you’re officially a budget traveler. Airport sleeping is quirky and can be uncomfortable, but I would say it’s almost an inevitable part of the solo travel experience.

It’s not just about saving money. Sometimes layovers are long. Sometimes hostels are far. And sometimes, your flight leaves at 7AM the next day, and the trains don’t start operating again until 5AM. (Yes, I’m looking at you, Oslo.)

My Personal Airport Sleep Stories

Munich, Germany – A Layover to Remember

I had a 10-hour overnight layover on my way to Athens, choosing the long night instead of taking a flight that would land me in Athens at 12AM. I could have booked a pricey hotel or ventured into the city late at night, but I decided the safer, (and cheaper), option was to stay put in Munich Airport. I found a row of those semi-reclining plastic chairs—modern, but about as cozy as a dentist’s waiting room.

I used my coat as a makeshift blanket, my backpack as a pillow, and settled into an attempt to grab a few z’s. It wasn’t luxurious, but it was free, safe, and surprisingly peaceful once the terminal quieted down, save for the robot vacuum cleaner.

Oslo, Norway – Arriving Before the Airport Wakes Up

Another time, I arrived at Oslo Airport at 1AM for a 7AM flight on my way home to Canada. (Shoutout to my aunt who drove me hour-long journey from her house to the airport in the middle of the night because I missed the last running train.) Security wasn’t even open yet, so I spent three chilly hours in the lobby area. No chairs, no music—just me, my bags, and the surprising number of other travellers doing the same.

It was cold, quiet, and oddly serene. I scrolled through memes, munched on some sad snacks I had packed, and reminded myself: this is what solo travel is all about. You adapt. You survive. You get on your flight.

Is It Safe to Sleep in Airports?

Short answer: mostly, yes. Especially in well-lit, staffed terminals in Europe, North America, and Asia. Many travelers do it. It’s not weird. You are definitely not alone.

That said, always trust your gut. Keep your valuables close (I sleep with my daypack as a pillow). Some airports even have designated sleep zones or 24-hour cafes where overnight travelers can hang out.

Pro tip: Check SleepingInAirports.net before you go. It has honest reviews, safety tips, and even ratings for sleep-friendliness. Some airports are surprisingly sleepable—Singapore Changi and Seoul Incheon consistently top the list.

What to Pack If You Might Sleep in an Airport

Even if you’re not planning on it, delays happen. Here’s some solo travel tips on what I try to keep in my bag just in case:

Neck pillow (or your coat—dual purpose!)
Eye mask – overhead lights never sleep. (Really wish I’d had one in Munich!)
Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones
Snacks + water bottle – airport food courts close
Phone charger + power bank (Or find chairs next to an outlet)
Downloaded playlists, podcasts, or shows

How to Make It Through the Night (With Sanity Intact)

Here’s the strategy I’ve fine-tuned over several airport slumber parties:

Scout for a good spot: Look for quieter gates, darker corners, or rows of chairs without armrests.
Avoid sleeping near exits or baggage claim if you can: These areas stay busy and are less secure.
Set an alarm: Or two. Or three. Missing your flight after a night on the floor is next-level tragic.
Keep perspective: It’s one night. You’ll have a real bed soon, it’ll feel softer than ever—and this makes a great story.

Final Thoughts: It’s Totally Okay to Sleep in an Airport

Sleeping in an airport won’t win you travel influencer points, but it will make you a more adaptable, confident solo traveler. It’s not about being cheap—it’s about making smart choices when the circumstances call for it.

I’ve saved money, come to appreciate my mattress more, and learned a lot about my own comfort limits in terminals around the world. So next time you’re stuck between flights or saving on accommodation, know this: you won’t get in trouble. You’ve got this.

FAQ: Sleeping in Airports and Solo Travel Tips

Is it legal to sleep in an airport overnight?
Yes, in most international airports it’s allowed—especially if you have a boarding pass for an upcoming flight. Just check in advance for airport rules.

What are the best airports for overnight stays?
Singapore Changi, Seoul Incheon, Amsterdam Schiphol, and Helsinki Vantaa are often ranked among the most comfortable.

Should I be worried about theft while sleeping in an airport?
Not usually, but keep your valuables close—ideally attached to your body or inside your coat. Use your bag as a pillow or loop a strap around your leg.

Are airport lounges worth it for sleeping?
They can be! Some offer day passes, showers, and quiet zones. But even without one, you can sleep safely and for free in many terminals.