http://www.sleepinginairports.net/tips.htm has tips for sleeping in airports. I'll throw in my own thoughts.
- This doesn't really apply to the business-class or first-class lounges. If you can get in there you can eat, drink, and shower at your leisure.
- Sleeping at major US airports is just a matter of finding the space. I think you'll only have to worry about being kicked out at smaller airports that don't have flights coming and going all night.
- If the stores and restaurants are closing, your terminal may be closing for the night. Hide out if you plan to stay.
- A major delay will cause major problems. My longest delay was 12 hours, mostly at Dallas, when DFW closed for heavy fog. The airport was only closed for a few hours, but the schedule fell completely apart.
- With hundreds or thousands looking for space you have to hold onto that quiet corner like a cat with a corn cob.
- On a delay of a few hours on an inner-China flight they gave out pre-packaged bowls of dry noodles. They have hot-water fountains in Asia (almost) like we have cold-water fountains in the US.
- When I traveled with a carry-on garment bag I found it was pretty comfortable when I sat in the floor and leaned it against the wall. Also secure.
- I always have the ear plugs and eye mask, but I don't have room for an air mattress. Maybe if I spent more time in less-developed areas.
- Power outlets make the most valuable real estate. It's worth walking to an empty terminal if you can find a comfortable spot with power. Obviously this matters only if you have a laptop and/or cell phone to recharge.
- Cell-phone modems are cheaper than airport wifi.
- If I am getting stressed I'll schedule a flight with a five hour layover just to give myself some time to decompress.
Links
http://www.sleepinginairports.net/tips.htm
