If you’ve got a layover in Huay Xai, don’t let it go to waste sitting at HOE. The city, in Laos, is within easy reach — roughly 30 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before heading into Huay Xai, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Laos vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Huay Xai is roughly 30 minutes from HOE via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from HOE to Huay Xai
From HOE, the local transport gets you to Huay Xai in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at HOE aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Huay Xai itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Huay Xai, 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.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Huay Xai, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Exploring Huay Xai on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Huay Xai:
Start with Mekong Riverfront Walk. No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace. Then, if time allows, make your way to Wat Jom Khao Manilat. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside HOE, you can spend time at HOE Airport Waiting Area & Tarmac Views or try Local Product Kiosk (limited). Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Huay Xai: Sabai Dee Restaurant and Oasis Restaurant & Bar. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Snack Counter or Coffee & Tea Corner. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at HOE for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Huay Xai or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Sleep & Lounge Options at HOE
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 HOE.
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
Whether you spend your layover in Huay Xai exploring the streets or relaxing at HOE, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.