Ever found yourself stuck at an airport, desperate for some rest but unable to find a comfortable spot? Long layovers and delayed flights can turn any trip into a tiring experience.
I’ve been there, trying to catch a few winks on uncomfortable benches with armrests that seem designed to keep you awake. It’s frustrating, especially when you need to recharge before your next flight.
Fortunately, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has been named the best airport in the U.S. for falling asleep, thanks to its abundance of lounges open 24/7. Let me tell you why this is a game-changer for travelers.
LAX: The Sleep-Friendly Haven
According to a new study by cpap.com, LAX tops the list of U.S. airports for a restful experience. With 24 lounges, including eight specifically for international travelers, LAX ensures you have plenty of comfortable spots to relax and even sleep.
Imagine arriving at an airport and knowing there’s a cozy lounge where you can stretch out, and maybe even grab a shower before your next flight. This can make a world of difference, turning a stressful layover into a mini-vacation.
North America’s Top Airports for Sleep
While LAX leads in the U.S., the overall best airport for sleep in North America is Mexico City’s Aeropuerto Internacional Benito Juárez (MEX). This airport offers 19 round-the-clock food options, six massage chair areas, and 14 lounges with shower facilities, four of which are open 24/7.
How They Ranked the Airports
Cpap.com considered various factors to determine the most sleep-friendly airports, including:
- Number of lounges
- Availability of 24-hour food options
- Access to massage chairs
- The presence of minute suites and benches without armrests
- Free Wi-Fi and charging stations
Other Top Sleep-Friendly U.S. Airports
Besides LAX, other U.S. airports known for their restful amenities include:
- New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
The Least Sleep-Friendly Airports
On the flip side, some airports lack amenities that promote rest. Canada’s Fort MacKay/Firebag Aerodrome (YFI) in Alberta was named the least sleep-friendly, offering no restful amenities. Similarly, Bethel Airport (BET) in Bethel, Alaska, also scored low due to its lack of rest-worthy facilities.
Tips for Sleeping at Airports
While having a sleep-friendly airport helps, you can also improve your chances of getting rest by:
- Wearing comfortable clothes
- Choosing your seat wisely
- Sticking to your usual sleep routine
If all else fails, try this psychologist-approved sleep skill: deep breathing and visualization techniques to help you relax and drift off.
Next time you find yourself facing a long layover, remember that some airports, like LAX, have gone the extra mile to ensure you can get the rest you need. Safe travels and sweet dreams!
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