Bangkok airport is one of the major transit airports in Asia and many travelers find that they have to change planes here and have some free time.

Most flights through Bangkok airport have connecting flights scheduled fairly close, so you won’t have to wait long for your next flight. But you’ll still want to fill in the time, and if you only have a four-hour layover, there’s not enough time to get out of the airport and visit Bangkok.

So what can you do if you have a layover at Bangkok airport before changing to another international flight?

Well, the first thing is to make sure that you are registered for the onward flight and that your boarding passes have been issued. From then on, the time is yours, but here are some options available.

airline lounges

A First Class or Business Class passenger will have access to the VIP Lounge of their Airline. Most lounges are equipped with Internet access, have snacks and beverages available, and a few comfortable chairs for lounging.

If you have been flying for many hours, you may prefer to walk through Suvarnabhumi Airport, rather than sit in the airline lounge.

For those flying with Thai Airways, there are showers in all lounges and free 30-minute massages are also available. There’s nothing like freshening up after a long flight before continuing your journey.

Most airline lounges are closed between 00:00 and 06:00, so check availability before you go.

Payment VIP lounges

If you’re a member of Louis’ Tavern, there are several of these lounges dotted around the airport that you can use.

Louis Tavern Day Rooms

Louis’ Tavern also has dayrooms available in four hour minimum blocks. They are like a small motel room, with a bed and a shower, but located inside the airport. Louis’ Tavern’s dayrooms are a great option if you need a private spot.

Traditional Thai Massage

If you find that you need to release tension in your muscles, then why not while away the time with a traditional Thai massage at Chang Massage and Spa? A range of services are available, including a simple manicure or pedicure, neck and shoulder massage, or the most relaxing oil massage. The benefits of a Thai massage are recognized throughout the world, so go ahead, treat yourself.

Milkshake Ocean of Milk

Located in the center of Suvarnabhumi Airport is a fabulous piece of sculpture titled Churning of the Milk Ocean. It is designed after a story from Hindu folklore and is a great place to take a photo as a souvenir of your layover at Bangkok airport.

Shopping at Bangkok airport

Duty free shopping is never better than at Suvarnabhumi Airport and you can shop for fine Thai silk at Jim Thompson or something more exotic at one of the many on-site brand name stores.

Check before buying liquids that you are allowed to take them on your next flight, or you may lose them at the gate.

Eating

Choose Thai, Japanese or Western food, it’s up to you. There’s a huge selection of venues, from formal dining to casual settings, so you’re sure to find something to fit your budget. Just make sure you have some Thai baht with you as not all places accept credit cards.

reclining chairs

Arranged at strategic intervals are groups of reclining chairs where you can relax or take a nap. You may get lucky and find some available seats to while away the time.

Internet

Free internet is available at various points throughout the airport, with workstations set up for passenger use. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available for limited periods before payment is required. Ask for a password at the information counters, located at the end of the contests.