Tips for Sleeping in Eastern European Airports

Tips for Sleeping in Eastern European Airports - Relax

Whether your layover at an Eastern European airport is expected or not, travel stress and tension can set in quickly, especially when you're stuck at a transit point in a country far away from home. The first thing you should do is attend to your bodily needs like food or brushing your teeth. The next plan of action is to find someplace comfortable to wait, which can be tough in some Eastern European airports.

Chairs or benches may be more forgiving than the floor, or they may not. If you feel the floor will allow you to rest and relax better than plastic bucket seats, choose a spot away from main thoroughfares.

Tips for Sleeping in Eastern European Airports - Luggage Considerations

Never leave your luggage for a minute, even if you've found the perfect spot for sleeping/resting and you only need to use the toilet. Your luggage will be swooped up by airport personnel just like it would be in any other airport.

If you are sleeping in the Eastern European airport, make sure to arrange your bags closely around you (or even under you, if comfort permits) to deter thieves. It is also smart to loop handles around hands and arms, or even legs, so that in the event that your luggage is tampered with by a stranger, you will be alerted. You may also choose to wear glasses with dark shades so that others will be unsure if you are truly sleeping or only making a fashion statement.

Tips for Sleeping in Eastern European Airports - Comfort

You're bound to be uncomfortable when sleeping in an Eastern European airport. Prepare beforehand and wear loose, comfortable clothing. No one cares if you wear cotton pajama bottoms and a t-shirt. Bring an oversized jacket as well. Airports can be chilly, especially if you're sitting on the floor. If you have room in your luggage, pack a light blanket for your legs or shoulders.

Tips for Sleeping in Eastern European Airports - Food and Drink

Always carry bottled water while traveling in Eastern Europe. In some Eastern European airports, food vendors may not be readily available and the tap water may be unsafe to drink or use for brushing your teeth. Prepackages snacks should also be carried, especially high-energy snacks with lots of nutrition.

Tips for Sleeping in Eastern European Airports - Airport Officials

In some Eastern European airports officials can be intimidating. As long as you have all of your documentation, as well as your tickets, you should be fine if asked questions about your destination or purpose for travel. Simply be polite, and if you are told to find another place to bunk while you lay over, move yourself and your luggage accordingly.

Tips for Sleeping in Eastern European Airports - Bring Entertainment

In the event that you are unable to sleep, pass the hours with books of puzzles, a good read, writing in your journal, or even music.

Tips for Sleeping in Eastern European Airports - Wear a Watch

Wear a watch. Don't rely upon your mobile phone's clock; the battery could die en route. You'll need to know the time in case you do catch some shut-eye and wake up hours later, disoriented.

Tips for Sleeping Eastern European Airports - Bring a Change of Clothes

If you're finnicky about cleanliness, you'll want to bring a change of socks and underwear in the very least. An extra shirt can come in handy, too.

You'll also want to think about personal hygiene items like a toothbrush, deodorant, and facial cleanser.