If you’re dealing with a long layover or an early morning flight departure at Brisbane Airport, you might be wondering if it is possible to sleep in the airport. Our guide to sleeping in Brisbane airport provides essential information for seasoned airport sleepers and newbies to help travellers arrive prepared for the experience.
We keep this guide up-to-date with the help of airport sleepers who have generously shared their experiences and airport reviews. If you have any tips or photos to contribute, please take a moment to write a review. Your feedback will help us stay informed about the latest advice for future sleepy travellers.
Can You Sleep Overnight at Brisbane Airport?
Brisbane Airport is open 24 hours, but since flights don’t run through the night, travellers looking to stay overnight will need to camp out in either terminal’s landside/public areas.
Where is the Best Place to Sleep in Brisbane Airport?
The International Terminal has more sleep-friendly options than the Domestic Terminal, with comfortable couches in the land and airside areas. Unfortunately, the terminals aren’t near each other. A free airport shuttle connects them, but it seems this shuttle may not run at night, so if you’re stranded in the Domestic Terminal, you may have to make the best of it.
Here are good sleep spots that travellers have reported:
- International Terminal, Level 4 Departures is the most comfortable area.
- International Terminal, as you exit the Departure areas, turn right, and you’ll spot a few 2-seater leather lounge chairs – not ideal, but better than other seating options.
- International Terminal, near Gates 75-76: big, comfortable couches.
There are no dedicated rest zones in either terminal, so if you do manage to find a couch, lay down and try to catch some needed zzz’s.
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Are There Lounges at Brisbane Airport?
Brisbane Airport has some lounges, but they don’t have dedicated sleep or rest zones. Some lounges are open to all passengers regardless of airline or class of service flown. These are accessible by purchasing a day pass, through lounge membership or paying at the door. Visit our Brisbane Airport Guide for more information on lounges.
Are Showers available?
Showers are available in both terminals to freshen up before your flight. Access is free, but you must bring your own towels and toiletries. For locations, visit our Brisbane Airport Guide.
Is There Anything Open 24 Hours in BNE?
Most concessions are open from 4 am until “late,” coinciding with the daily flight schedule. If you’re here overnight and the midnight munchies hit, you will have to walk out of the airport to the McDonalds at a nearby service station. Some travellers have reported that the walk is via a busy road and isn’t the safest journey. If you plan to spend a night in the airport, we recommend bringing snacks to save you the risky trek for a cheeseburger. Or you can buy some refreshments from one of the vending machines. Locations:
- International Terminal: Levels 1, 2, 3 & 4
- Domestic Terminal: Levels 1 & 2.
There are also cold and hot water dispensers located throughout the terminal.
Suppose your phone needs some extra juice before the flight. In that case, there are charging points throughout and Watt Bikes in the international terminal, allowing you to charge your appliances by pedalling – an excellent way to get some movement in before sitting on a long-haul flight!
Are There Any Hotels Within Walking Distance of the Airport?
If this sleep guide hasn’t tempted you into braving a night sleeping in Brisbane Airport, you can choose from a few hotels to rest at instead. Hotels near Brisbane Airport that are within walking distance or accessible by airport shuttle:
- Pullman Brisbane Airport Hotel » Check Rates
- Ibis Budget Hotel » Check Rates
- Novotel Brisbane Airport » Check Rates
- Comfort Inn & Suites Northgate Airport Hotel » Check Rates
For more options, visit Tripadvisor to see a list of hotels near Brisbane Airport that can be sorted by price, distance, traveller rating and popularity.
Is it Safe to Sleep at Brisbane Airport?
At the time of this update, we have received no reports from travellers commenting on safety issues at Brisbane Airport. However, sleeping in any airport can include a certain level of risk, especially when travelling alone. It’s important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety and the security of your valuables. Here are a few tips:
- Safety First. It’s a good idea to know where the security office is located and look for video cameras where you plan to sleep. You can also ask the security personnel for advice on the safest places to spend the night.
- Don’t Seclude Yourself. If you’re travelling alone, we recommend you stay near other travellers or close to security. This will help you feel more secure and deter potential thieves.
- Hide Your Valuables. It’s also important to hide your valuables. Don’t leave them out in plain view, as this could make you a target for theft. Additionally, if you are a deep sleeper, you may want to padlock your bag to something or sleep with your bag up against a wall to make it harder for someone to access zippers and pockets. We have received reports of sleepers who woke up without their phones and laptop bags. The travellers were left with just their headphones and laptop bag strap.
- Stay Alert. It’s best to stay alert and awake if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable. Drink coffee or other caffeinated beverages to help you stay awake, and remember that you can always catch up on sleep during your flight. These simple precautions can help you enjoy a safe night at the airport.
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