You think you’re just catching a quick connection, but then—bam—you’re stuck for six hours with nowhere to go and nothing to do. It’s not quite enough time to leave the airport and explore, but it’s way too much time to just sit at your gate staring at your phone and wondering if your charger is going to make it. But here’s the good news: there are actually ways to make those endless hours feel kind of… okay? Maybe even fun? All it takes is a little planning and the right mindset.

Stretch Your Legs, Seriously

One of the first things to do when you’ve landed and realize you’ve got hours to kill is to move. And not just from one terminal to another. Find a quiet corner or an open gate and walk. Like, actually walk. Stretch. Bend. Swing your arms around a little. People might stare, but who cares? You’re not trying to win cool points, you’re trying to avoid the stiff neck and sore legs that come with sitting all day.

Many airports now have walking paths, yoga rooms, or even indoor tracks. Even if yours doesn’t, you can make your own loop. Just walking from one end of the terminal to the other can help reset your brain. And yeah, maybe it sounds boring at first, but getting your blood moving does something weirdly magical to your mood. It gives you energy when you feel like a zombie, and it helps shake off that tight, boxed-in feeling.

And if your gate is loud and crowded? Go rogue. Find a different one. Some of the quietest areas are where flights aren’t boarding anytime soon. Grab a seat by the window, prop your feet up on your bag, and suddenly the layover doesn’t feel so bad.

Turn Airport Time Into You Time

Instead of thinking of a layover as “wasted” time, flip the script. What’s something you always say you never have time to do? Reading for fun? Writing a journal? Organizing your phone photos? Download a few episodes of a show you’ve been meaning to watch or finally try that brain-training game you heard about once and forgot. There’s a kind of weird peace that happens when you’re forced to sit still but don’t have anything demanding your attention.

When your flights go wrong, and you end up grounded longer than expected, this time can be gold if you let it. Catch up on emails (or finally delete 10,000 of them). Make a playlist for your trip. Meditate, even if you’re just sitting with your eyes closed and counting your breaths. Whatever feels like it fills your cup instead of draining it, do that.

And hey, don’t forget your earbuds. Airport noises aren’t relaxing, but putting on something that makes you feel calm or happy can turn the vibe around fast. Whether it’s a true crime podcast, ambient music, or a guilty-pleasure pop song from middle school, it helps.

Treat Yourself Without Regret

You’re stuck in an airport. You didn’t ask for this. So yes, get the good snack. The overpriced latte. The cinnamon pretzel that smells like a warm hug. You don’t need to blow your whole vacation budget in the terminal, but a small splurge can turn your day around.

Some airports have mini spas, massage chairs, or even showers you can rent for 30 minutes. If you’re exhausted or sweaty from a long flight, that shower can feel like a full reset. Even just washing your face and brushing your teeth in the bathroom can make you feel 80% more human.

And if your layover is long enough for a real meal, don’t settle for a sad sandwich. Walk around, scope out your options, and find something that feels satisfying. A warm meal at a table, even if it’s just airport pasta, can feel almost like being in a real restaurant. Almost.

Get Comfortable Without Looking Like You Slept Outside

You don’t have to choose between dressing like you’re at a job interview or rolling through the terminal like you’re wearing pajamas from 1997. There’s a sweet spot. Think layers, stretchy fabrics, and shoes that don’t hate your feet.

Speaking of shoes—this is where it really matters. Nothing ruins a travel day faster than sore, aching feet. That’s where arch support sneakers for women or men come in. They're not just comfortable, they’re lifesavers when you’ve got terminals to cross, lines to stand in, or time to kill by walking. And the best part? They don’t have to look orthopedic. Plenty of styles are actually cute now, and your feet will thank you when you’re not limping by hour three.

You can even keep a change of clothes in your carry-on if you’ve got a super long layover. Swap out your top, put on some fresh socks, and boom—you feel like a new person. It’s the little stuff that makes a huge difference when you’re stuck between flights.

People-Watch Like It’s Your Job

Airports are one of the best places to people-watch Everyone’s going somewhere. Everyone’s got a story. It’s kind of wild when you think about it. You’ll see everything from tired families with matching neck pillows to business travelers typing like their keyboard owes them money. Try to guess where people are from. Make up stories about what they're doing. It sounds silly, but it’s oddly fun.

You can also strike up a chat if you’re feeling social. Not everyone’s in the mood to talk, but sometimes you end up next to someone who’s also bored and just wants to kill time. You don’t have to become lifelong friends—just a little human connection can make the time go faster. And honestly, it’s kind of comforting to remember that you’re not the only one trapped in airport limbo.

Long layovers still aren’t fun. No one’s ever thrilled about spending their day in a terminal. But if you shift your mindset just a bit, those hours don’t have to be terrible. They might even become a little relaxing, a little productive, or—dare we say—interesting. Next time you’re stuck, think of it as a detour, not a disaster. You’ve got this.