Mount Pocono Airport (MPO) is a small regional airport serving the Pocono Mountains region of Pennsylvania. While it’s a Tier 3 airport with limited commercial traffic, layovers here are short connections. This guide covers everything you need to know about making the most of your time at MPO, whether you’re staying in the airport or venturing into the surrounding area.
Before You Leave the Airport
- Visa Requirements: Check IATA Travel Centre for your specific nationality and destination.
- Language: English is the primary language in Pennsylvania.
- Currency: US Dollars (USD). Use ATMs for the best exchange rates – avoid airport currency counters.
- Transit Time: Factor in immigration and security when deciding if you can leave the airport. For international connections, allow at least 1 hour for immigration plus 2-3 hours to return and clear security.
Getting to the City from MPO
Mount Pocono Airport is a small regional facility. For specific ground transportation options, check the official MPO airport website. Typical options at regional airports include:
- Rental cars (if you have a valid driver’s license)
- Rideshare services (Uber, Lyft)
- Taxi services
- Airport shuttle services
Pro Tip: Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before landing. Airport WiFi can be unreliable, and having navigation ready saves time and stress.
What to Do During Your Layover at MPO
Staying at the Airport
As a Tier 3 airport, MPO has limited amenities. Expect basic facilities including:
- Standard airport dining and food options
- Retail shops
- Restrooms and basic facilities
Important: Airport food is 2-3x more expensive than city prices. If your layover is long enough to leave the airport, eating in the city is a smarter choice.
Leaving the Airport
If you have 6+ hours for your layover, you can explore the Mount Pocono area. The Pocono Mountains region offers:
- Outdoor recreation and hiking trails
- Local restaurants and cafes
- Shopping and retail areas
- Scenic mountain views
Luggage Storage: If you’re leaving the airport with luggage, use Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero to store bags near the airport. These services cost $5-10 per bag per day – much cheaper than airport lockers.
Lounges at MPO
Information about lounge availability at Mount Pocono Airport is limited. However, if you have lounge access through your airline or credit card, check with your carrier at the gate.
Lounge Access Options:
- Priority Pass: Gives access to 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide. Some premium credit cards include it free.
- One-Time Day Passes: Most major airlines offer single-visit lounge passes:
- Alaska: ~$39
- American: ~$45
- Delta: ~$49
- United: ~$59
Sleeping During Your Layover
If you have an overnight layover at MPO, options are limited at the airport itself. Consider:
- Nearby hotels in the Mount Pocono area (check booking sites for availability)
- Check SleepingInAirports.net for reviews of sleeping options at MPO
Quick Tips for Your MPO Layover
- Pack a layover bag: Keep snacks, entertainment, a change of clothes, and basic toiletries in your carry-on for easy access.
- Bring an empty water bottle: Fill it after security to stay hydrated and save money on airport beverages.
- Download offline entertainment: Airport WiFi may be slow or time-limited. Download movies, books, or podcasts before your layover.
- Use a Wise or Revolut card: Get the best exchange rates with zero markup when spending in USD.
- Share your location: If exploring solo, share your location with a trusted contact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave MPO airport during a layover?
Yes, you can leave Mount Pocono Airport during a layover if you have sufficient time. For domestic connections, allow at least 60 minutes to return and clear security. For international connections, allow at least 1 hour for immigration plus 2-3 hours to return and clear security. A 6+ hour layover gives you comfortable time to explore the Mount Pocono area.
What is there to do at MPO during a layover?
At the airport, you’ll find basic amenities including dining, retail shops, and restrooms. If you leave the airport, the Pocono Mountains region offers outdoor recreation, hiking trails, local restaurants, shopping, and scenic views. For short layovers, staying at the airport is recommended.
How long of a layover do I need at MPO?
For domestic connections, 60 minutes is the minimum. For international connections, allow at least 2-3 hours total (1 hour immigration + 1-2 hours buffer for security and boarding). If you want to leave the airport and explore, plan for at least 6 hours.
Is there luggage storage at MPO?
For luggage storage options at Mount Pocono Airport, check with the airport directly. If leaving the airport, use Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero for luggage storage near the airport – typically $5-10 per bag per day, much cheaper than airport lockers.
Plan Your Perfect Layover
Ready to make the most of your time at Mount Pocono Airport? Use the Yopki layover calculator to determine exactly how much time you have and what you can realistically accomplish during your layover.
Safe travels!