Productive Layovers: Fact or Wishful Thinking?

More than ever before business often includes air travel, and unfortunately, when your plans include flying, layovers are simply part of the package. Higher fares, delayed flights, and cutbacks in non-stops have created even longer layovers, which might be considered a time waster. However, layovers can be a tedious bore or productive tool, depending on how you manage your time.

Be Prepared

Instead of viewing layovers as a nuisance, be prepared to make the most of your time.
Consider bringing business items to work on. Business items may include files, writing materials, a laptop computer, phone cord, calculator, dictating machine and batteries.

Downtime can be productive. It's simply a matter of pre-planning. Plan ahead and make a to-do list of phone calls to return or short projects to work on. While you may never get excited about layovers, you can at least make them a little more bearable.

Tips for Productive Layovers

• For short layovers, find a quiet corner in the airport, near your gate, hopefully with a plug-in nearby to recharge your phone and/or computer battery. Take out your list and return phone calls. Make necessary notes in your Blackberry or a notepad. Consider standing, instead of sitting, as another opportunity to stretch your legs before boarding the plan.

• Get Connected. If your layover or delay is more than an hour, this is the perfect opportunity to put some finishing touches on your presentations, or compose a letter. If you have a Blackberry or other hand-held email device, go ahead and get serious about responding to emails. Or take advantage of airport wireless networks and boot up your computer. Travelpost.com offers an Airport Wireless Internet Access Guide to over 200 U.S. airports, or their International Airport Wireless Internet Access Guide. Both guides include connection fees, although many airports, such as Las Vegas, Denver, and Vienna offer free wireless connection. Don't forget to charge your batteries.

• Airport VIP Lounges or Clubs. If you are a member, you can take advantage of your membership benefits and enjoy a relaxing, luxurious environment complete with food and drink. VIP clubs also offer services needed for an "office away from the office." Membership can run as much as several hundred dollars a year, so unless you travel a great deal, this probably will not be worth it. If you are a frequent flyer member, inquire about getting a day pass, usually for a nominal fee.

• Exercise. Some airports offer fitness centers or gyms, either as part of the airport or in the VIP clubs. Alternatively, walk the airport or go outside for fresh air between flights. Exercise will help you relax and boost your energy

• Explore the airport. As unexciting as an airport terminal may seem, if you think of a layover as an extra travel bonus to get out and explore. Consider the time as a positive experience to meet new people, discover new restaurants or shopping. Research the layover airport to determine if there are restaurants, shops, and perhaps other activities. Larger city airports may offer theaters, museums, gyms, or play areas for children. Log on to the airport's web site, check out their amenities, and (if available) download and print their map. Some airports are destinations in themselves.

• Explore the city. Some airports offer quick connections by light rail, direct train or bus to tourist attractions nearby. If you do leave the airport, first find out how long it will take and make sure you have specific attractions to visit, so you can avoid missing your flight. How many times have you connected in a city, but never had the time to actually sightsee? If your plans are flexible, consider a longer layover so that you can visit the city.

• Overnight Layovers. Long international flights are exhausting, especially with the time zone changes. Consider extending your layover and scheduling an overnight stay at an airport hotel to reduce the effects of jet lag. Then, once you arrive at your final destination, you will be rested and full of energy.

Reminders

Check on the status of your flight from time to time, and return to your gate at least 45 minutes before the flight is scheduled to leave. If your layover is short, stay closer to your gate. This way if there are gate or time changes, you will still be able to make your flight.

Don't forget to carry on what you might require for a productive layover. If you're planning on working, bring your computer, files, and other supplies. If you hope to work out, pack your work-out clothes. Be prepared for whatever activities you might engage in when you have a planned (or unplanned) layover.