We spend a lot of time in airports when we take a trip.  Whether your trip is for business or pleasure, you probably feel like your time in the terminal is wasted time.  After all, you have to be at the airport an hour before your flight leaves, and in some cases you’re there for 2 or 3 hours.  This is a great time to take a minute and do something for yourself.  Here are some ideas.

Have a Great Meal

Believe it or not, there are a lot of airports that have fine dining options.  You’re going to have at least an hour, so plan to have a nice meal.  Chances are, you’re not going to get good food on your flight, so you might as well satisfy your appetite before you board the plane.  Look up the airport online ahead of time so you know where to find the good places to eat and their operating hours.

Go on a Shopping Spree

Are you going to visit relatives?  Would your business trip benefit if you had a gift for the client?  Leave room in your carry-on luggage for souvenirs.  Save your time getting ready for the trip and purchase those gifts in the airport shops.  You can find some great-quality, low-priced items in airports–especially if you’re flying overseas.  Even if you don’t need to give a gift, you could do a little shopping for yourself.  There are shops that sell everything from food to knick-knacks to clothing to books to gadgets.

Catch Up on That Great Read

Have you been wondering why everyone’s talking about the “Twilight” novels?  Have you always wanted to know more about a culture or religion?  Now’s the time to dust off that book you bought 3 years ago and actually read it.  Not only will reading keep you entertained, it will help your spelling and vocabulary skills.  Reading can also help you become the informed person in the room when an unusual situation arises.  Pick up a book and treat yourself to a good read.

You can’t go wrong as long as you choose to do something other than staring at the flight board waiting for your plane.  When you plan your next trip, do yourself a favor and plan to use that extra airport time in a productive fashion.