International airports are the most prepared for travelers with long layovers. Airports in cities like Los Angeles, New York, London and Tokyo are specially equipped to make your layover the most comfortable. For around $10-20, you can spend your layover in a first class style lounge, even if you have a coach ticket. You can rest, watch TV, order drinks and food, all in a safe, comfortable environment. Many airport lounges even offer private rooms or sleeping pods for you to catch a little sleep after the red-eye.
Wireless Internet
Wireless Internet has become extremely common in airports of all sizes. Fees are charged either by the minute, hour, or day but are well worth the money. Instead of reading tabloids, you can catch up on work, email, or even shop. Business travelers with laptops are usually the people most likely to take advantage of this service but airports are starting to cater to the casual traveler as well. In Los Angeles International Airport, kiosks are intermingled with seating in the restaurant areas. You can log on using one of their terminals to access the Internet.
Make a Friend
At some point, almost everyone in the western world will pass through an airport. When you travel, you’ll come in contact with people from all walks of life, cultures, and backgrounds. Instead of droning out to your headphones, try striking up a conversation with the person waiting next to you. Odds are they are just as bored as you are and even if you never speak again, you will have learned something about another person and kept occupied while sitting in the airport.
Look Outside
While most people think of airport exteriors as cold asphalt surfaces for smokers and people waiting to get picked up by friends or family, they can be just as interesting as the inside. Dublin airport has a giant statue of a flying pig; perfect for getting your photo taken with or letting the kids climb around.
Mini-parks and interesting art have become de rigueur for airports. There are all sorts of things to see and do outside. Don’t be afraid to step outside of the self-sustaining terminal and get a breath of fresh air. You might be surprised—after hours of traveling, the smell of spring flowers or autumn rain could be all you need to get back in another plane.