Whether you’re passing through BMY for a quick connection or have several hours between flights, this guide will help you navigate your layover efficiently. We’ve compiled practical tips for families, solo travelers, and groups to help you stay comfortable, save money, and make the most of your time.
Before You Leave the Airport
Essential Information
- Visa Requirements: Check IATA Travel Centre for visa requirements based on your nationality and destination.
- Currency: Avoid airport currency exchanges – rates are poor. Use ATMs or a Wise/Revolut card for better exchange rates.
- Language: Download offline translation apps before landing in case airport WiFi is unreliable.
- Transit Time: Always factor in immigration and security time when deciding if you can leave the airport.
Getting to the City from BMY
For specific transit options from BMY airport to the city, visit the official airport website for current transportation schedules and routes.
General Transit Tips:
- Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before landing – essential for navigating without data.
- For solo travelers: Keep valuables in a cross-body bag or hidden money belt when exploring.
- For groups: Budget 2.5-3 hours before international departures and 60 minutes before domestic flights when returning to the airport.
What to Do During Your Layover
At the Airport
While amenities data isn’t currently available for BMY, here are ways to make your airport time comfortable:
- Rest: Check SleepingInAirports.net for information on the best spots to rest at BMY.
- Lounge Access: Consider a one-time lounge day pass if available, or check if your credit card includes Priority Pass (1,400+ lounges worldwide).
- Food: Airport food is 2-3x more expensive than city prices. If you have time, eat in the city instead.
- WiFi: Download offline entertainment before your layover – airport WiFi may be slow or time-limited.
- Luggage Storage: Use Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero for luggage storage near the airport (typically $5-10/bag/day) – much cheaper than airport lockers.
In the City
If your layover is long enough (6+ hours recommended for solo travelers), explore the local area. Check the full Waala layover guide for city-specific attractions and recommendations.
Quick Tips for Your Layover
- Pack a layover bag: Keep snacks, entertainment, a change of clothes, and basic toiletries in your carry-on for easy access.
- Stay hydrated: Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security – staying hydrated helps manage jet lag.
- Use Wise or Revolut: Get the best exchange rates without airport markup.
- Share your location: If exploring solo, share your location with a trusted contact.
- Plan ahead: For groups, designate a leader, use WhatsApp for coordination, and track flight details in a shared document.
Layover Tips by Traveler Type
For Families
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Luggage Storage | Use Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero ($5-10/bag/day) instead of airport lockers. |
| Baby Care | Most major airports have baby care rooms with changing tables, bottle warmers, and nursing areas. |
| Offline Entertainment | Download movies, games, and maps before your layover – airport WiFi may be unreliable. |
| Hourly Rooms | YotelAir offers cabin-style rooms bookable by the hour at select airports (LHR, CDG, IST, SIN). |
For Solo Travelers
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Layover | Budget 6+ hours total (1hr immigration + 2-3hr return buffer + explore time). |
| Data Access | Get an eSIM before traveling (Airalo, Holafly) for instant data without hunting for WiFi. |
| Lounge Day Pass | Alaska ~$39, American ~$45, Delta ~$49, United ~$59, Plaza Premium varies by location. |
| Voluntary Bumping | Airlines often offer $200-800+ in compensation – easier to rebook one person. |
For Groups
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Time Buffer | Add 15-30 minutes ‘group tax’ to all time estimates – groups move slower through immigration and security. |
| Designate a Leader | Assign one person to manage timing, headcount, and communication. |
| Coordination | Use WhatsApp, Google Sheets, or shared notes to track flight details and emergency contacts. |
| Expense Splitting | Use Splitwise to automatically calculate who owes what for shared transport and food. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave BMY airport during a layover?
Yes, you can leave BMY airport during a layover if you have enough time. Always factor in immigration and security time when deciding. For solo travelers, a minimum of 6+ hours total layover is recommended (1 hour for immigration + 2-3 hours to return to the airport + explore time). For groups, budget 2.5-3 hours before international departures and 60 minutes before domestic flights when returning.
What is there to do at BMY during a layover?
At the airport, you can rest, access lounges (if available), eat, use WiFi, and store luggage. If your layover is long enough, explore the city using offline maps. Check the full Waala layover guide for city-specific attractions. Remember that airport food is 2-3x more expensive than city prices, so eating in the city is a better value.
How long of a layover do I need at BMY?
For domestic connections, 60 minutes is sufficient. For international connections, allow 2-3 hours.