Airport Delays Don’t Have To Be Miserable-Here’s How To Make The Best Of It

Your Flight Is Delayed, And You Are Not Sure What To Do With Your Time? Keep Reading To Find Out!

There’s nothing quite like the sinking feeling you get when you see the word “delayed” flash next to your flight number.

Whether it’s due to weather, mechanical issues, or that mysterious “operational reason,” airport delays can throw a serious wrench in your travel plans.

But here’s the thing: they don’t have to be miserable.

After years of traveling, and yes, getting stuck in more airports than I can count, I’ve learned how to turn unexpected downtime into something a lot more enjoyable (and even productive).

From clever ways to stay comfortable to ideas that make the wait feel less like lost time and more like a mini layover adventure, this guide will help you survive—and maybe even enjoy—your next delay.

Let’s dive into how to make the best of a not-so-great travel situation.

Recommended Resources:
✈️ Cheapest Flights
🏢 Hotels 
🚘 Car Rental
🚖 Airport Taxi Transfer
🩹 Travel Insurance 
💧 Water Bottle

1. Ask About Compensation Or Perks

One of the very first things to do if your flight is delayed is to check if you’re entitled to any compensation, freebies, or perks from the airline.

Most travellers don’t realize that in some situations, airlines have to provide assistance, or are at least willing to offer it if you ask nicely.

If your delay is significant (usually 2+ hours, but policies vary by airline and location), you may be eligible for things like:

• Meal vouchers
• Lounge access
• Hotel accommodations (for overnight delays)
• Flight rebooking or refunds

Head directly to the airline’s customer service desk at the gate or open the airline’s app.

The app is often the fastest way to see rebooking options or claim a voucher, especially during large-scale delays.

If you’re in the EU, Canada, or the UK, consumer protection laws may entitle you to cash compensation, depending on the cause and length of the delay.

Pro Tip: Be calm, polite, and assertive. Airline staff deal with a lot of angry travelers during delays, so being friendly can actually work in your favor.

Airlines often provide perks voluntarily to keep passengers happy, even when the law doesn’t require it.

It never hurts to ask!

2. Explore The Airport (Shopping/Window Shopping)

Instead of sitting around staring at the departure board, use the delay as a chance to explore the airport.

Many modern airports are filled with things to see and do—some even feel like mini shopping malls or cultural hubs!

Start with a walk through the duty-free shops, even if you’re not looking to buy anything.

It can be surprisingly fun to browse luxury perfumes, sample chocolates, or try on designer sunglasses you’d never actually splurge on.

It is especially entertaining in international terminals, where you’ll find unique local brands and quirky souvenirs.

If you do want to shop, look for:

• Travel gadgets you forgot to pack (like power banks or travel pillows)
• Snacks and local treats to try or bring home
• Wellness products like face masks, lip balm, or essential oils to freshen up after a long day of travel
• Last-minute gifts – if you are visiting family or friends, you may have forgotten someone on your list. So now is the time to grab them something.

Pro Tip: If you’re at a major international hub, check the airport’s website or terminal map.

Many list featured shops, restaurants, and even hidden gems you wouldn’t otherwise stumble across.

3. Relax In An Airport Lounge

If you’re facing a long delay, one of the best ways to make the experience more comfortable is to escape the busy terminal and head to an airport lounge.

Many travellers think lounges are only for first-class passengers or frequent flyers, but that’s not true anymore.

You can often buy a day pass, use a travel credit card benefit, or access a lounge through membership programs like Priority Pass, LoungeBuddy, or DragonPass.

Some lounges even allow walk-ins for a fee, depending on capacity.

Inside, you’ll find:

• Comfy seating (a major upgrade from the stiff terminal chairs)
• Free snacks, meals, and drinks (sometimes even wine or cocktails)
• High-speed Wi-Fi
• Charging stations everywhere
• Clean, private restrooms—and often showers!

For travellers dealing with a multi-hour delay, this is a game-changer.

You can recharge your phone, grab a real meal, and unwind in a quieter, more relaxed space.

If you’re travelling for work, lounges also make it easy to get things done with more privacy.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have lounge access through your airline or credit card, check LoungeBuddy or your airport’s website.

A one-time pass can be relatively cheap, especially when you factor in the cost of food and drinks in the main terminal.

🦄 Related airport posts:
The 7 Step Airport Prep Checklist Frequent Travelers Swear By
7 Smart Things To Do Right After Airport Security
7 Tips To Breeze Through Airport Security Like A Pro

4. Treat Yourself To A Real Meal

Let’s face it—airport delays and hunger are a terrible combo.

Instead of settling for a soggy sandwich or overpriced bag of chips from a convenience kiosk, use the extra time to treat yourself to a proper meal.

More and more airports now feature full-service restaurants, local food vendors, and even outposts of celebrity chef-run eateries.

Whether it’s sushi, ramen, wood-fired pizza, or farm-to-table fare, there’s often something way better than fast food.

Take this as an opportunity to:

• Try local cuisine without having to leave the airport—like a lobster roll in Boston.
• Sit down and relax instead of eating on the go. Many airport restaurants have surprisingly nice ambiance and even great tarmac views.
• Enjoy a drink if that’s your thing. A glass of wine or a well-made latte can do wonders for your mood during a long wait.

And if you’re travelling with kids or a partner, a meal is a great way to reset and spend some quality time together rather than stressing out by the gate.

Pro Tip: Check the airport website to see what’s near your terminal. You might discover a hidden gem just a few gates away!

5. Catch Up On Shows, Podcasts, Or Books

A flight delay gives you one precious thing most of us don’t have enough of: uninterrupted time.

Instead of scrolling endlessly through social media or pacing near the departure gate, use this moment to dive into that show, podcast, or book you’ve been meaning to get to for ages.

Downloaded content is your best friend during a delay.

Before your trip (or even at the airport if Wi-Fi is decent), download a few episodes of your favorite Netflix series.

Or a documentary you’ve been curious about, or the latest season of that true-crime podcast everyone’s talking about.

Podcasts are great to entertain you without requiring you to stare at a screen.

Prefer reading? One of the best things to do if your flight is delayed is to pull out your Kindle or open the e-reader app on your phone.

Airport time is ideal for finally getting lost in a novel, catching up on travel guides, or flipping through that stack of downloaded articles you’ve been bookmarking.

Here are a few content ideas for your delay:

• TV/Streaming: Bingeable shows or travel documentaries
• Podcasts: Travel stories, comedy, or personal development
• Books: Novels, magazines, or destination-themed reads
• Audiobooks: Great if your eyes are tired or you’re multitasking

Pro Tip: Bring noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds to block out airport noise and make the experience way more enjoyable.

And don’t forget to charge your devices. You’ll want that battery power once you’re on the plane, too!

6. Find A Quiet Spot And Recharge

Airports can be loud, chaotic, and overstimulating, especially when flights are delayed and terminals start to feel crowded.

That’s why finding a quiet corner to relax and recharge can make a world of difference.

Start by scouting out low-traffic areas. These are often at the far ends of terminals, near unused gates, or tucked behind dining areas.

Some airports even have designated quiet zones, nap areas, or wellness rooms where noise levels are kept low and seating is more comfortable.

These are great spots to unwind, stretch out, or even sneak in a little rest without the constant buzz of overhead announcements.

Once you’ve found your calm space, take a moment to recharge your devices.

Delays are the perfect time to top off your phone, tablet, e-reader, or laptop.

Many airports now offer charging stations and USB ports.

However, just in case you should bring a portable charger or power bank in case you can’t find any.

While your devices charge don’t forget to recharge yourself, too.

Drink some water, close your eyes for a few minutes, or do a breathing exercise to help reduce tension.

Pro Tip: Bring a travel blanket or scarf and noise-canceling headphones to create your own cocoon of calm, even in a busy terminal.

7. Get Some Work Done

A flight delay might feel like wasted time but it can actually be a golden opportunity to catch up on work without the usual distractions of everyday life.

Whether you’re a remote worker, freelancer, student, or someone with a side hustle, the airport can turn into your temporary office if you plan it right.

First, find a quiet spot—ideally near a charging outlet or in an airport lounge where the Wi-Fi is stronger and the seating is more comfortable.

If you don’t have lounge access, head toward less-crowded gates or early-morning terminals where foot traffic is lighter.

When you find a good spot, pull out your laptop or tablet and knock out some of those lingering tasks.

Such as clearing out your inbox, editing photos, planning content, organizing your calendar, or finishing that project you’ve been putting off.

Even if you only have an hour or two, this focused burst of productivity can leave you feeling accomplished rather than frustrated by the delay.

No laptop? No problem. There’s still a ton you can work on from your phone. You can:

• Reply to DMs or emails
• Listen to industry-related podcasts or audiobooks
• Make to-do lists or outline future goals
• Edit drafts or notes in your phone’s notes app

Some travellers even like to use this time for brainstorming or reflection.

Whether that’s journaling, writing down business ideas, or revisiting personal goals.

Pro Tip: Most airports offer free Wi-Fi, but it will not be the fastest connection. Therefore, it’s smart to download any important files in advance or bring a portable hotspot.

And don’t forget your noise-cancelling headphones if you want to block out the background noise while you work.

7 Things To Do If Your Flight Is Delayed Infographic

🦄 NEXT STEP: 7 Pro Tips For Sleeping On Long-Haul Flights

Conclusion: 7 Things To Do If Your Flight Is Delayed

Flight delays are never ideal, but they don’t have to be a total waste of time (or energy).

With a little creativity and the right mindset, you can turn an unexpected pause into a productive, relaxing, or even enjoyable part of your journey.

Whether you’re checking off your to-do list, indulging in a great meal, exploring the terminal, or simply finding a quiet place to breathe and recharge, there are plenty of ways to make the most of the moment.

So the next time your departure board lights up with the dreaded word “delayed,” don’t panic.

Take a breath, get a little resourceful, and remember: this is still part of the adventure.