Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Hattiesburg/Laurel gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from PIB to the city takes roughly 70 minutes by Taxi/Rideshare, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
A few things to sort out before you leave PIB:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for United States. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Hattiesburg/Laurel takes about 70 minutes by Taxi/Rideshare. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
What to See and Do in Hattiesburg/Laurel
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Hattiesburg/Laurel, two standouts are:
- Hattiesburg Zoo — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- African American Military History Museum — Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at PIB, check out Free Wi-Fi & Charging Zones or Aircraft Spotting to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
For food in Hattiesburg/Laurel, local travelers recommend Cotton Blues. If you have time for a second stop, Crescent City Grill is another popular pick.
Back at PIB, The Hattiesburger is the go-to. Terminal Coffee & Snacks rounds out your in-terminal options.
Transport from Hattiesburg Laurel Regional Airport to Downtown
From PIB, the Taxi/Rideshare gets you to Hattiesburg/Laurel in around 70 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 90 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Rideshare offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Hattiesburg/Laurel layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$9 |
| Meal | ~$18 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$37 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at PIB may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Hattiesburg/Laurel’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and PIB is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Hattiesburg/Laurel and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at PIB include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in United States also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Hattiesburg/Laurel with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Hattiesburg/Laurel may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.