Stuck at IBP airport between flights? Whether you have a short connection or a longer layover, this guide will help you make the most of your time. We’ll cover what to do at the airport, how to explore the city, and practical tips for families, solo travelers, and groups.
Before You Leave the Airport
Essential Information
- Visa Requirements: Check IATA Travel Centre for your nationality and destination
- Language: English is widely spoken at major airports
- Currency: Use ATMs or a Wise/Revolut card for the best exchange rates – avoid airport currency counters
- WiFi: Download offline maps and entertainment before landing
- Immigration & Security: Always factor in 1+ hour for immigration and security when calculating if you can leave
Getting to the City from IBP
For specific transit options, ground transportation details, and current schedules, visit the IBP airport website.
General transit tips:
- Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before landing
- If traveling solo, share your location with a trusted contact
- For groups, designate a leader to manage timing and headcount
- Budget extra time: add 15-30 minutes for groups moving through the airport
What to Do During Your Layover
At the Airport
While amenities data isn’t available for IBP, most airports offer:
- Dining and shopping options
- Comfortable seating areas
- Restrooms and shower facilities (at some airports)
- WiFi access
Lounge Access: If you don’t have lounge access through your airline or credit card, consider:
- Priority Pass: Gives access to 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide – some credit cards include it free
- One-time day passes: Alaska (~$39), American (~$45), Delta (~$49), United (~$59), or Plaza Premium (varies by location)
Exploring the City
If your layover is long enough (6+ hours recommended for solo travelers), you can venture into the city. Eat at local restaurants instead of the airport – city food is 2-3x cheaper than airport prices.
For families: Pack a ‘layover bag’ inside your carry-on with snacks, entertainment, a change of clothes, and basic toiletries. Most major airports have baby care rooms with changing tables, bottle warmers, and nursing areas.
Luggage Storage
If you want to explore without your bags, use:
- Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero: Partner with local businesses near airports for luggage storage – typically $5-10/bag/day, much cheaper than airport lockers
- Group discounts: Book all group luggage together for the best rate
Sleeping at the Airport
For overnight layovers:
- SleepingInAirports.net: Ranks the best (and worst) airports for sleeping – check before your trip
- YotelAir: Offers cabin-style rooms bookable by the hour at select airports (LHR, CDG, IST, SIN) – no reservation needed
- For groups: Assign rotating watch shifts (2-3 hours each) to guard belongings
Quick Tips for Your Layover
- Hydration: Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security – staying hydrated helps manage jet lag
- Entertainment: Download offline content before your layover – airport WiFi may be slow or time-limited
- Solo travelers: Consider voluntary bumping – airlines often offer $200-800+ in compensation, and it’s easier to rebook one person
- Groups: Use WhatsApp or a group chat for real-time coordination; share departure gate and boarding time as a pinned message
- Expenses: Use Splitwise to automatically calculate who owes what – essential for groups sharing transport, food, and activities
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave IBP airport during a layover?
Yes, you can leave IBP airport during a layover if you have enough time. Always factor in immigration (1+ hour), security (30-60 minutes), and travel time to return to the airport. For solo travelers, a 6+ hour layover is recommended. For groups, budget 2.5-3 hours before international departure and 60 minutes before domestic flights when returning to the airport. Check your visa requirements at IATA Travel Centre before leaving.
What is there to do at IBP during a layover?
At IBP airport, you can dine, shop, rest in comfortable seating areas, and use WiFi. If your layover is long enough (6+ hours), you can explore the city – eat at local restaurants (cheaper than airport food), visit attractions, or relax at a café. For overnight layovers, check SleepingInAirports.net for sleeping options or book a YotelAir cabin room if available.
How long of a layover do I need at IBP?
For domestic connections: 60 minutes minimum. For international connections: 2-3 hours minimum. To leave the airport and explore: 6+ hours recommended for solo travelers. For groups, add 15-30 minutes to all time estimates since groups move slower through immigration, security, and transit. Always check your specific flight requirements with your airline.
Are there lounges at IBP?
Lounge availability at IBP depends on your airline and ticket class. If you don’t have lounge access, you can purchase: Priority Pass (access to 1,400+ lounges worldwide – some credit cards include it free) or one-time day passes from airlines like Alaska (~$39), American (~$45), Delta (~$49), United (~$59), or Plaza Premium (varies by location).
Is there luggage storage at IBP?
Yes, you can store luggage at IBP using services like Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero. These partner with local businesses near the airport and cost $5-10/bag/day – much cheaper than airport lockers. Groups can book all luggage together for discounted rates.
Plan Your Perfect Layover
Ready to make the most of your time at IBP? Use the Yopki layover calculator to figure out exactly what you can do with your layover duration. Get personalized recommendations based on your flight times, travel style, and preferences.
Safe travels!