Whether simply because it's the cheapest option available or due to unforeseen circumstances, being stuck in an airport for long hours can be one of the most dreaded experiences for any passenger. Extended layovers can lead to anxiety, frustration, and boredom as passengers wait for time to pass.

While having the right supplies on hand helps pass the time quicker, there are certainly other methods of getting through a layover, most of which will be of no cost to passengers. Here are our top five ways to ensure a less boring layover.

1 Get some shut-eye

Although sleeping at airports might not seem ideal due to hygiene, security, and possible lack of space, catching up on some sleep is an excellent way for stranded passengers to pass their layovers quicker. Time flies by in a breeze, and best of all, the body gets recharged before the following flight itinerary.

Photo: Grusho Anna | Shutterstock

And it's usually free of charge to pass through the layover by taking a nap unless passengers choose to pay for a lounge, sleep at an airport hotel or sleeping pod, or pay to use a massage chair if available.

2 Become productive

If the airport provides WiFi, passengers can catch up on their hanging work backlog or reply to urgent emails. And if there's no work to be done (or you would instead do something else), you could work on some Suduko puzzles, get lost in a good book, or do some journaling, whatever suits your interest most.

Although passengers could also play mobile games or stream their favorite television series or movies, prolonged screen usage tends to tire the eyes and mind quicker. However, such activities between work, reading, or journaling could provide a refresher and help pass the time in the blink of an eye.

3 Explore the airport

Researching what the airport offers is another great way to fully use any layover, especially if the shops and attractions have yet to close. Passengers can explore observation decks, if available, to get some good plane-spotting action in, find new places to get a quick bite, or engage in some retail therapy.

Photo: Berlin Brandenburg Airport

Passengers could also catch some ongoing sporting events or news if the airport offers television areas. And if hair, spa, nail, or massage parlors are available, passengers can indulge in unwinding self-care. All these, plus the time spent exploring, will keep you engaged during any layover.

4 Go on an excursion

This is especially useful for passengers with particularly long layovers, as being stuck for several hours is an excellent excuse to escape the airport and be a tourist in the city. While there is no need to wander very far, taking the bus or train a few stops or just taking a walk could present plenty of local food and shopping outlets.

There is also plenty of new scenery for passengers to soak in and take memorable pictures. The only downside is that passengers must always keep track of the time, and you'll need to account for security waiting times. So while exploring a new city is fun, passengers should ensure they'll catch their flight or risk a much more extended layover, not to mention dealing with the airline upon returning.

5 Meet new people

While this might not be the best idea for introverts, connecting with new, like-minded people in a foreign airport is another effective way of killing time and boredom. There are plenty of stories to exchange, possibly over drinks or food, and social media accounts can be swapped to further the conversation.

Photo: Millstead Photography | Shutterstock

There are often stories of strangers meeting at the airport while stranded before dating and getting married years later. For all anyone knows, passengers who made new friends might find themselves wishing there was more time once it's time to board the flight.

What are your favorite ways to bypass boredom during layovers? Share with us in the comments below.