A layover at INA airport doesn’t have to mean hours of boredom in the terminal. Whether you have a short connection or a longer break, this guide will help you navigate your time efficiently and make the most of your stopover.
Before You Leave the Airport
Essential Information
- Visa Requirements: Check IATA Travel Centre for your specific nationality and destination
- Language: Download a translation app before landing – airport WiFi can be unreliable
- Currency: Use ATMs or a Wise/Revolut card instead of airport currency exchanges – rates are significantly worse
- Transit Time: Always factor in immigration and security time when deciding if you can leave the airport
Can You Leave INA During Your Layover?
Whether you can leave the airport depends on your layover length and visa requirements:
| Layover Length | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Under 3 hours | Stay in the airport – not enough time for immigration, exploration, and return |
| 3-6 hours | Risky – only if you’re familiar with the area and have no checked luggage |
| 6+ hours | Ideal for leaving the airport and exploring the city |
Pro tip: Budget 1 hour for immigration, 2-3 hours for exploration, and 1 hour to return and clear security before your next flight.
Getting to the City from INA
For specific transit options from INA airport to the city center, visit the official airport website for current transportation schedules and routes.
What to Do During Your Layover
At the Airport
- Relax in a lounge: If you don’t have lounge access, consider a one-time day pass (typically $39-59 depending on your airline)
- Grab a meal: Airport food is 2-3x more expensive than city prices – eat light or wait until you leave
- Stay connected: Download offline maps and entertainment before landing to avoid relying on airport WiFi
- Rest: Find a quiet corner or check if your airport has sleeping facilities
In the City (6+ Hour Layovers)
If you have time to leave the airport, consider:
- Exploring local neighborhoods and attractions
- Eating at local restaurants – much better value than airport food courts
- Visiting museums, parks, or cultural sites
- Shopping at local markets
Important: Keep your most valuable items (passport, phone, wallet) secure in a cross-body bag or hidden money belt when exploring.
Luggage Storage & Facilities
If you’re leaving the airport with carry-on luggage only, you’re all set. For checked bags, consider these options:
- Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero: Partner with local businesses near airports for luggage storage – typically $5-10 per bag per day, much cheaper than airport lockers
- Airport lockers: Check availability at INA’s information desk
Quick Layover Tips
- Pack a layover bag: Keep snacks, entertainment, a change of clothes, and basic toiletries in your carry-on for easy access
- Download offline maps: Use Google Maps or Maps.me before landing – essential for navigating without data
- Stay hydrated: Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security – helps manage jet lag
- Share your location: If exploring solo, let a trusted contact know where you are
- Use Wise or Revolut: Get the best exchange rates without airport markups
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave INA airport during a layover?
Yes, if you have a 6+ hour layover and meet visa requirements for the destination country. Always factor in 1 hour for immigration, 2-3 hours for exploration, and 1 hour to return and clear security. Check visa requirements at IATA Travel Centre before your trip.
What is there to do at INA during a layover?
At the airport, you can relax in a lounge, eat, shop, or rest. If you have 6+ hours, consider leaving the airport to explore the city, visit local attractions, eat at restaurants, or visit museums. Download offline entertainment before landing to stay occupied.
How long of a layover do I need at INA?
For domestic connections, budget 60 minutes minimum. For international connections, allow 2.5-3 hours. To leave the airport and explore, you’ll need at least 6 hours total layover time.
Are there lounges at INA?
Lounge availability varies. If you don’t have complimentary access through your airline or credit card, you can purchase a one-time day pass (typically $39-59). Priority Pass gives access to 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide and is sometimes included free with premium credit cards.
Is there luggage storage at INA?
Check with INA’s information desk for airport locker availability. Alternatively, use Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero for luggage storage near the airport – typically $5-10 per bag per day, which is cheaper than most airport lockers.
Make the Most of Your Layover
Whether you have a short connection or a longer break, planning ahead makes all the difference. Download offline maps, check visa requirements, and decide whether to explore the city or rest at the airport.
Need help calculating your layover time? Use the Yopki layover calculator to determine exactly how much time you have and what you can realistically accomplish.