There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Camp Bastion into a quick city adventure. From OAZ, the local transport can get you into town in around 20 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Important Details Before You Go
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at OAZ:
First, verify that you can enter Afghanistan — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 20 minutes into Camp Bastion, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — local currency is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Camp Bastion from OAZ
The most straightforward way into Camp Bastion is the local transport, which takes about 20 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 40 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
What to Budget for Your Camp Bastion Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Camp Bastion, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What to See and Do in Camp Bastion
If you head into Camp Bastion, here are two things worth checking out:
Local Village Interaction (Hypothetical) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Camp Bastion.
Helmand River Observation (Hypothetical) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. On a clear day, the views alone justify the detour.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside OAZ, you can spend time at Transit Passenger Waiting Area or try Small Convenience Kiosk. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: Local Chai Khana (Hypothetical) and Streetside Kebab Stall (Hypothetical) are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Camp Bastion.
- At the airport: Airport Transit Cafe and Grab & Go Food Counter will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Bag Storage Near OAZ
Specific locker facilities at OAZ aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Camp Bastion itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at OAZ should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Afghanistan and you’re good to go.
Taking a Break at OAZ
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at OAZ.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Camp Bastion is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Camp Bastion.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.