How to Spend a Layover in Augusta (AUG) | Layover Guide

Augusta Regional Airport (AUG) serves the Augusta, Georgia area with connections to major hubs. Whether you have a short connection or a longer layover, this guide helps you decide whether to explore the city or stay near the airport, plus practical tips for making the most of your time.

Before You Leave the Airport

Getting to Augusta from AUG

Augusta Regional Airport is located approximately 7 miles south of downtown Augusta. For specific ground transportation options, current shuttle services, and rental car availability, visit the Augusta Regional Airport website.

General transit tips:

• Budget 2.5-3 hours before international departures and 60 minutes before domestic flights when returning to the airport
• Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before landing – airport WiFi may be unreliable

What to Do During Your Layover

Short Layover (2-4 hours)

With a short connection, staying near the airport is your safest option. Use this time to:

• Grab a meal or snack (note: airport food is 2-3x city prices)
• Use airport restrooms and freshen up
• Charge your devices
• Relax in an airport lounge if you have access
• Download offline entertainment for your next flight

Medium Layover (4-8 hours)

With 4-8 hours, you have options. If you’re considering leaving the airport, remember to budget time for:

• Return travel to the airport (30-60 minutes)
• Buffer time before your next flight (60+ minutes)

This typically leaves 2-3 hours for actual exploration. Consider visiting downtown Augusta or nearby attractions if ground transportation is readily available.

Long Layover (8+ hours)

With 8+ hours, you have genuine time to explore Augusta. Eat in the city rather than the airport – you’ll save money and get better food. Consider booking a day room or lounge access if you want to rest between flights.

Airport Amenities & Services

For current information on dining, shopping, lounges, and other airport services at AUG, please check the official airport website.

Layover Tips by Traveler Type

For Families

• Pack a layover bag: Keep snacks, entertainment, a change of clothes, and basic toiletries in your carry-on for easy access
• Stay hydrated: Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security – staying hydrated helps kids manage jet lag
• Baby care: Most airports have baby care rooms with changing tables, bottle warmers, and nursing areas
• Luggage storage: Use Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero for luggage storage near the airport – typically $5-10/bag/day, much cheaper than airport lockers
• Offline entertainment: Download movies, games, and maps before your layover – airport WiFi may be slow or time-limited

For Solo Travelers

• Luggage storage: Bounce and Stasher partner with local businesses near the airport for luggage storage at $5-8/bag/day
• Lounge day passes: One-time lounge access costs $39-59 depending on the airline
• Safety: Share your location with a trusted contact when exploring a new city solo
• Best exchange rates: Use a Wise or Revolut card for zero-markup currency conversion

For Groups

• Designate a group leader: Manage timing, headcount, and communication before the layover
• Use group chat: WhatsApp or a shared note for real-time coordination – pin departure gate and boarding time
• Food courts work best: Everyone can choose what they want without waiting for a sit-down restaurant
• Track details: Use Google Sheets or Splitwise to manage flight info, expenses, and who owes what

Quick Tips

• Never exchange money at airport currency counters – rates are terrible. Use ATMs or a Wise card instead
• If leaving the airport, eat in the city, not the airport – you’ll save 2-3x on food costs
• Priority Pass gives access to 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide – some credit cards include it free
• For overnight layovers, check SleepingInAirports.net for airport sleeping reviews
• Download offline maps and translation apps before landing – airport WiFi can be unreliable

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I leave AUG airport during a layover?

Yes, you can leave AUG airport during a layover if you have enough time. However, always Factor in security screening time screening (1+ hour), travel time to the city (30-60 minutes), and a buffer before your next flight (60+ minutes). A minimum of 4-6 hours total layover time is recommended if you want to explore outside the airport.

What is there to do at AUG during a layover?

At the airport, you can dine, shop, charge devices, and relax. For current amenities and services, check the Augusta Regional Airport website. If you have 4+ hours and want to explore beyond the airport, downtown Augusta and surrounding attractions are accessible via ground transportation.

How long of a layover do I need at AUG?

For domestic connections, 60 minutes is the minimum. For international connections, budget 2.5-3 hours. If you want to leave the airport and explore, you need at least 4-6 hours total layover time to account for security, travel, and a safety buffer before your next flight.

Are there lounges at AUG?

For current lounge information at AUG, visit the Augusta Regional Airport website. If you don’t have lounge access through your airline or credit card, you can typically purchase one-time day passes ($39-59) or consider Priority Pass membership for access to 1,400+ lounges worldwide.

Is there luggage storage at AUG?

For airport luggage storage options, check the Augusta Regional Airport website. Alternatively, services like Bounce, Stasher, and LuggageHero partner with local businesses near the airport and cost $5-10/bag/day – often cheaper than airport lockers.

Plan Your Perfect Layover

Ready to make the most of your time at AUG? Use the Yopki layover calculator above to get personalized recommendations based on your layover length, travel style, and interests. Whether you have 2 hours or 12 hours, we’ll help you maximize your time in Augusta.