Airports are notoriously known for nickel-and-diming you for every little thing.
But some airports have a boatload of really cool free things – if you know where to find ‘em.
From live music and free movies to the ultimate free coffee hack and even a hot shower – check out some of the coolest things you can score all around the world without ever leaving the airport.
Live Music
Annoyed with listening to an airport employee constantly speaking over the intercom with flight changes?
How about skipping the needless boarding announcements and checking out some live music instead?
Austin, Texas, is well-known for their music scene – and their love for music is even on display at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport where you can check out a number of live musicians performing at various gates.
It’s no wonder Austin is the Live Music Capital of the World!
On-sight Movie Theaters
Stranded at the airport due to a flight delay or cancelation?
Now you can pass the time checking out a host of free movies!
If you’re the creative type, the Hollywood Theatre in Portland International Airport showcases short films produced by Oregon filmmakers.
Or maybe you’d prefer to watch an actual blockbuster flick while you wait for your next flight.
Well if you happen to be in Singapore’s Changi Airport, you’re in luck as this airport hosts not one, but two movie theaters!
Museum Exhibits
Perhaps you’re the visual, artsy type who just wants something nice to look at while you wait for your flight.
Instead of staring at cheesy airport stock photos on the wall – check out Philadelphia International Airport’s award-winning visual arts program!
For more than 20 years, rotating art exhibits have been scattered all throughout Philly’s airport, showcasing the talent and creativity of local artists.
Sure… you’ll probably see some leftist social justice stuff (like the exhibit shaming you for using plastic) but you can still check out other unique exhibits with vibrant colors and creative designs.
Hey, at least you won’t be bored!
The Ultimate Gaming Station
If you’re looking to entertain your kids (or are a kid at heart yourself), Frankfurt Airport in Germany has a variety of video games suitable for all ages.
From showing off your dancing skills, to even playing the fan-favorite Tetris, you can check out a whole host of games projected on monitor walls or on your very own personal gaming pedestal.
Talk about a fun experience.
Hot Shower And Coffee Hack
Whether your flight is delayed or you’re just looking to warm up – some airports around the world like Abu Dhabi International Airport or Sydney Airport in Australia actually offer free hot showers!
Yeah you’ll need to have your own towel and toiletries, but if you time it right, this might be the perfect pick-me-up before a long flight.
And if you aren’t a coffee snob (guilty) and just want a hot cup of joe, you can beat the system and bring your own instant coffee – just ask a local shop for a hot cup of water and make your own coffee.
Instant coffee isn’t the best… but it sure beats Starbucks.
Practical Items
If you’re like me and want to spend as little time at the airport as possible, you can take advantage of the more “practical side” of airport freebies.
Instead of paying $6 for a bottle of water at the airport food shop, bring your own reusable bottle and fill it up at one of the filtered hydrating stations located at most major airports.
Or if you’re looking to crank out some work, most major airports now (finally) have free Wi-Fi – although I would keep your browsing low-key and avoid sensitive stuff like paying your bills or checking your savings balance.
If you HAVE to check a bag (like if you’re traveling with kids), most airlines offer free “fragile” stickers to place on stuff like strollers or car seats…
…not that airport workers will treat your bags any better, but at least psychologically it will make you feel better!
Make The Most Out Of It
Airports are still a pretty miserable place… but at least you can make your experience a bit more bearable by taking advantage of these unique freebies.
So before you head out on your next trip, check out the airport you’ll be flying out of and learn how you can hack it to get the most out of your flying experience!
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