Sleep pods;

Brisbane Airport Sleeping Pods Guide 2023/24

by

There are at least 3 hotels at Brisbane Airport but if you want the convenience of a sleeping pod, I’ll provide you with all the information you need. Unlike hotel sleep or naps, Sleep Pods provide a comfortable, private space for travelers who are in between flights or need to rest up before catching their next flight.

What Are Sleep Pods?

Sleep pods provide travelers with a comfortable and private area that’s close to the airport terminal. They offer enough space for one person, along with basic amenities like air conditioning, a TV, and Wi-Fi. This makes them perfect for travelers who want to take a nap or rest in between flights. Plus, they’re available at an affordable rate per hour.

Are there sleeping pods at Brisbane Airport?

Unfortunately, there are no sleep pods at Brisbane Airport. I searched to see if any pay-per-sleep provider has announced plans to introduce sleep pods at Brisbane but wasn’t able to find any. However, the International Terminal offers a greater variety of sleep-friendly options compared to the Domestic Terminal. Comfortable couches can be found in both the public, pre-Security area and the Secure area, ensuring a relaxing experience for travelers.

Where can I sleep then at this Airport?

According to sleepinginairports.net, the airport offers several spots where you can comfortably catch some sleep. The most comfortable area can be found at the International Terminal, Level 4 Departures. As you exit the Departure areas, turn right and you’ll find a few 2-seater leather lounge chairs, which, while not ideal, are still better than many other seating options. Additionally, near Gates 75-76 at the International Terminal, you’ll find big and comfortable couches.

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 at the pre-security/public areas of either terminal.

According to the official airport website, the International Terminal, Level 2 takes the crown for the most comfortable sleeping spot, closely followed by Level 4. These couches are designed without bothersome metal armrests, allowing even larger individuals to fully stretch out, providing a comfort akin to a Posturepedic mattress. Fortunately, the security at the International Terminal is only closed between 01:30am and 04:45am, so you won’t have to wait long before you can proceed to the other side. Remember to check in first before going through security (check-in opens three hours prior to international flights).

If you find yourself checked in, through security, and passport control on Level 3 Departures with plenty of time to spare, why not catch up on some rest? Take advantage of the comfortable sun lounges available before making your way down the concourse to Gate 82 – 87.

Can I sleep overnight at Brisbane?

Brisbane Airport operates around the clock, but as flights do not operate during the night, travelers wishing to stay overnight must find accommodations in the pre-security/public areas of either terminal. It is important to note that sleeping in the public areas of the airport, despite being allowed, may be uncomfortable and can also pose a security risk. Therefore, it’s best to find overnight accommodation off-site if you plan on staying several nights or more.

Are there other options for sleeping at Brisbane Airport?

Ibis Brisbane Airport

Ibis Brisbane Airport is conveniently situated just a five-minute stroll from the Domestic Terminal and a short drive from the International Terminal at 2B Dryandra Road, Brisbane Airport.

Experience our Day Stay and Refresh package, available from 9am to 5pm. To secure your reservation, please call us at 07 3139 8100 or book online.

Pullman Brisbane Airport

For a comfortable stay at the airport, consider Pullman Brisbane Airport hotel. Conveniently located just a five-minute walk from the Domestic Terminal and a short drive from the International Terminal at 2B Dryandra Road, Brisbane Airport. Take advantage of their Day Stay and Refresh package available from 9am to 5pm. To make a reservation, call 07 3188 7300 or book online.

Novotel Brisbane Airport

Novotel Brisbane Airport is conveniently situated just a short five-minute drive from the terminals at 6-8 The Circuit, Brisbane Airport QLD 4008. We offer a Day Stay and Refresh package, available from 9am to 5pm, perfect for those in need of a quick respite. To secure your reservation, please call 07 3175 3100 or book online. We look forward to welcoming you!

FAQs

Is Brisbane Airport open 24 hours?

Yes, Brisbane Airport is open 24 hours and seven days a week. However, flights do not operate through the night so travelers looking to stay overnight must find accommodations in the pre-security/public areas of either terminal.

Is there Wi-Fi at Brisbane Airport?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout both Domestic and International Terminals for up to two hours. There are also various charging stations located around the terminals.

Are there sleeping pods at Brisbane Airport?

No, unfortunately there are no sleep pods at Brisbane Airport as of yet. However, the airport does offer several spots where you can comfortably catch some sleep such as in the public/pre-security area or by taking advantage of day stay packages at nearby hotels.

What is the best way to get around Brisbane Airport?

Skygate shuttle buses provide easy access between terminals, and there are also car rental services available for those who wish to drive their own vehicle. For travelers with accessibility concerns, a special wheelchair-friendly service is offered in both Domestic and International Terminals.

Is there food available at Brisbane Airport?

Yes, there are several options for food and drinks. You can find cafes, bars, and restaurants in both the Domestic and International Terminals. Additionally, vending machines are also available throughout the airport.

Are there shops at Brisbane Airport?

Yes, you will find a variety of different stores to shop at while at the airport. In the Domestic and International Terminals, you can find duty-free stores selling jewelry, accessories, perfumes, electronics, books and magazines. You can also find newsagents, tobacco shops and convenience stores if you are looking for something more specific.

Are there any lounges at Brisbane Airport?

Yes, there are several VIP lounges located in both Domestic and International Terminals. You can find the Qantas Club, Virgin Australia lounge, Plaza Premium Lounge, as well as several other lounges.

Are there any pet facilities at Brisbane Airport?

Yes, there are designated areas throughout the airport where you can take your pet for a break or to relieve itself. There are also pet relief areas located before and after security. Additionally, Brisbane Airport provides designated pet friendly taxi services that can be booked for airport transfers.

Can I smoke at Brisbane Airport?

No, smoking is strictly prohibited in all areas of Brisbane Airport. There are designated outdoor smoking areas located outside the Domestic and International Terminals. However, because these areas are in a public space they may be subject to air quality regulations. If you wish to smoke, please check with airport staff for the latest information before lighting up. Read more about smoking at Brisbane Airport here.

Is there a post office at Brisbane Airport?

Yes, there is a post office located in the Domestic Terminal. It operates from 6am until 10pm and provides full postal services to travelers.

Is there a prayer room at Brisbane Airport?

Yes, the airport provides two multi-faith prayer rooms – one in the Domestic and one in the International Terminal. They are open 24 hours a day and provide washing facilities, prayer mats, as well as a library of holy books.

Is there an ATM at Brisbane Airport?

Yes, ATMs can be found throughout the Domestic and International Terminals. In departure areas you will find Bank of Queensland, ANZ, Westpac and Suncorp ATMs. In the arrivals area, there are also CommBank and NAB ATMs.

What other services does Brisbane Airport offer?

Brisbane Airport provides a wide variety of services to make your travel experience more convenient. These include lockers for storage, free Wi-Fi, currency exchange services, banking facilities, medical assistance and more. You can find more information about these services on the airport’s website. You can also shower at various locations at both domestic and international terminals.

Is there a Lost & Found at Brisbane Airport?

Yes, the Lost & Found is located in the Domestic Terminal near gate 23. You can also report lost items online via their website using the dedicated form. The Lost & Found team can be contacted directly on 07 3178 6500 or via email at lostandfoundbrisbaneairport.com.au.

Are there any nearby accommodation options?

Yes, a number of hotels are located within close proximity to Brisbane Airport including the Pullman Brisbane Airport and Novotel Brisbane Airport for those who wish to stay overnight or make use of their day stay packages. There are also several Airbnb listings available for shorter stays.

Which Airlines has Sleeping Pods?

by
Banner image for blog about airlines with sleep pods on their flights

If you are traveling through an airport, or even flying and wondering if your airline has or provides sleeping pods for clients during flights or during layovers, this guide provides comprehensive information on the airlines offering sleeping pods for passengers.

What are sleeping pods?

Sleeping pods are small private spaces or enclosed cabins that passengers can rent by the hour in order to relax and sleep in a quiet environment. They are usually designed with comfortable seating and may also feature LED lighting, charging ports, wifi access, air conditioning, and other amenities.

Benefits of in-flight sleeping pods:

  • Increased comfort and privacy for those who want to rest
  • Avoid jet lag due to the ability to relax in a quiet environment
  • Reduced fatigue from long flights or layovers
  • Improved productivity after arriving at your destination feeling well rested

So which airlines have sleeping pods on their flights?

In their May 2023 announcement, Air New Zealand revealed their plan to introduce in-flight sleep pods. These cozy pods will be available for a four-hour session at a cost ranging from 400 to 600 New Zealand dollars. Below is a snapshot from the press release as reported by CNBC;

Read the press release here.

As you can imagine, this is a tall order for an airline to try and implement – the safety, comfort, and overall customer experience aspect must be on point. As of now, Air New Zealand is the only airline to have revealed plans for this kind of service; however, there are a few other airlines that offer sleeping pods as an in-flight amenity.

What’s the cost of sleeping pods in the flight?

According to the only airline that has revealed plans for this kind of service, Air New Zealand, the cost for sleeping pods will range from 400 to 600 New Zealand dollars. Of course, prices may vary depending on the time and duration of your flight.

Airlines Sleep Pods vs Airline Bed:

The main difference between an airline’s sleep pods and an airline bed is the size. Airline beds are usually much larger than sleeping pods, allowing passengers to fully stretch out and relax during their flight. However, sleeping pods offer more privacy as they are completely enclosed with no visibility from outside. This is great for those who need some extra privacy while flying.

All in all, sleeping pods are a great way for passengers to relax and get some rest while flying. They offer more privacy than airline beds and are more cost-effective for those who don’t want to splurge on a full-sized bed. While Air New Zealand is the only airline currently offering this kind of service, we expect other airlines to follow suit in the near future, offering passengers more options for their next flight.

Which airlines offer sleeping pods as an amenity?

Currently, only Air New Zealand has announced plans to introduce in-flight sleep pods as an amenity. However, some other airlines have been known to offer these kinds of services in certain parts of the world or for certain flights. For example, Lufthansa has offered sleeping beds on their long-haul flights in the past and Singapore Airlines offers them during layovers at Changi Airport. Emirates also offer sleeping pods at Dubai International Airport.

So, which customers will have in-flight sleep pods?

According to the press release, starting from September 2024, travelers flying from Auckland to Chicago and New York will have the opportunity to experience a new level of comfort in the sky. The carrier announced its plans for the introduction of sleeping quarters in 2022, aiming to provide passengers with an enhanced sleeping experience during their journey.

Auckland-Chicago flight takes about 16 hours 10 mins and is among the longest international flights and makes sense that Air New Zealand has chosen this route as the starting point for its sleep pod experiment.Air new zealand to introduce in-flight sleep pods.JPG

So, what will the Skynest be like;

Air Zealand has introduced their sleeping pods on flights, called Skynest. According to their plans, there will be six sleeping pods situated between the economy and premium economy seats. These pods can be booked for four-hour periods, with each passenger allowed one session per flight. Flight attendants will change the bedding between each session, with a 30-minute gap provided for the change-over. At the end of the four-hour period, the light in the pod will illuminate, or if the passenger is still asleep, a flight attendant will gently wake them up.

Airplanes with Sleep Bed:

Qatar Airways;

In 2018, according to CNN reports, the world of air travel witnessed remarkable advancements. Qatar Airways introduced the Qsuite, a revolutionary double bed in business class. Singapore Airlines unveiled their all-new A380 Suites, while Emirates showcased their fully-enclosed 777 seats, both redefining the concept of first-class comfort. These innovations have truly elevated the standard of luxury in the aviation industry, setting a new benchmark for excellence.

Air France: La Première First Class

Another airline to provide a bed to its First Class customers is Air France. La Première customers can enjoy a fully-flat bed in the aircraft with 6.5 ft length and 30in width which makes it good enough to sleep in. The cabin crew also provides pajamas, slippers and duvet as part of the service. Apart from this, passengers are given a choice of pillows for added comfort.

JetBlue Mint Cabin:

The Mint Cabin by JetBlue is one of the most impressive features of its class. This cabin was launched back in 2021 and is available on select routes only. The seats are equipped with a full-flat bed, adjustable headrests, lumbar support and an 18in HD monitor. Furthermore, passengers can enjoy unlimited snacks and drinks as well as premium entertainment options like DirecTV and SiriusXM.

The sleeping pods provided by airlines are truly a dream come true for any traveler looking to catch up on some rest during their flight. Whether it is business or pleasure, customers will surely appreciate the comfort of sleeping in these luxury accommodations while flying. In 2023, the Pointsguy criticized JetBlue Mint’s wear and tear two years into its introduction.

Airlines with beds for Couples

  • Etihad Residence on the A380
  • Singapore Airlines’ New First Class Suites on the A380
  • Etihad First Class Apartments
  • China Eastern Airlines First Class
  • Emirates First Class Suites on the A380
  • Japan Airlines First Class
  • Air France La Premiere on the 777-300ER
  • ANA 777-300ER “The Suite” First Class
  • Cathay Pacific First Class
  • Lufthansa First Class
  • Korean Air First Class

Read details and get the entire list here.

Read about airport with sleeping pods here

Sleep Pods at Heathrow Airport Guide (T2, T4, T5)

by

If you are having a long layover at Heathrow Airport and thinking of where to sleep in Terminal 2, 4, or 5, you may be wondering if sleep pods are a possibility. In this blog, I have explained in detail Heathrow sleeping pods, where you can find them (which terminal), how they cost, which airlines offer them and more.

Let’s start with the basics;

What is a sleeping pod in the first place?

They are basically private rooms/suites that you can rent for a short duration of time, usually by the hour. They offer a bed, clean sheets, international electrical sockets, reading light, luggage storage, and sometimes even a TV.

British Airways Sleep Pods:

Just this past week, British Airways launched a new way for their travelers to catch a nap during long layovers using their innovative sleep pods at Heathrow Airport. It was covered in their press release here.

Their so-called ‘Forty Winks’ nap lounge, which opened on May 17, 2022 features power nap sleep pods called EnergyPod. Similar to the British Airways’ sleep pods at Terminal 7 in JFK, these new sleep pods at Heathrow are being introduced in partnership with RestWorks.

These launched pods are now available in British Airways’ First Lounge at London Heathrow. In their press release, British Airways indicated that they’ll be adding more sleep pods to its Concorde Room at London Heathrow Terminal 5 when global travel restrictions ease and those lounges open.  

How do RestWorks’ Sleep Pods look like?

RestWorks is an independent company that specializes in sleep and works with businesses to improve their employee productivity through better sleep. The company’s CEO told Business Insider that the pod resembles “a cross between a La-Z-Boy and a Tesla.”

The EnergyPod has a ” zero-gravity ” recline position that makes it easier to fall asleep. It also has a ” white-noise ” machine and a ” light-blocking visor ” to help you relax.

energypod dallas stadium

The EnergyPod has a privacy visor, a built-in timer, and music created especially for napping. The EnergyPod gently but effectively wakes the user at the end of the nap with a mild light, sound, and vibration combination.

They have a height of 147 cm (58 inches), 122 cm (48 inches) in height and a 212 cm(83.5 inches) in length.

Aside from JFK and Heathrow, Restworks has also installed sleep pods in Jewel Changi Airport in Singapore.

How much do these Sleep Pods cost?

The pods cost £30 (about $40) for a 30-minute session, or £50 (about $66) for an hour, according to British Airways’ website.

Where are these Sleep Pods located?

The pods are currently only available in the First Lounge at London Heathrow Terminal 5, but British Airways plans to add more pods to its Concorde Room lounge when global travel restrictions ease.

What about other Terminals?

For now, British Airways is the only airline with sleep pods at Heathrow Airport. However, Virgin Atlantic has introduced private suites called the “snooze zone” at its Clubhouse lounge in Terminal 3 where you can catch some shut-eye on a daybed or in one of their two “sleep pods” for £25 (about $33) for up to 45 minutes.

Heathrow Airside Bedrooms

Another option for you can opt to sleep at Heathrow Airport is using The Airside Bedrooms in Terminal 3 which, unfortunately, are temporarily closed since the COVID travel restrictions were put in place in the UK. However, you can check if they are now available using this link.

OPENING TIMES

  • 6:00am to 10:00pm

Sleep Pods at Heathrow Airport Prices

  • Singles from £20/hour
  • Twin from £30/hour
  • Triple from £35/hour (double bed with single bunk bed)
  • Please note: there is a three hour minimum stay

Sleep Pods at Heathrow Airport Amenities

  • En-suite shower room & WC / Aromatherapy Associates toiletries
  • Hairdryer & shaver socket
  • 22″ flat-screen TV
  • Unlimited WiFi
  • Small desk area
  • Free international calls
  • Infant cots available

Unlike the sleep pods, the airside bedrooms at Terminal 3 are much larger with more amenities such as a desk area, hairdryer, TV, and shower rooms.

Sleeping pods Heathrow Terminal 2

At Heathrow’s Terminal 2, there are no sleep pods but you can use the following sleeping by checking out the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge, Plaza Premium Lounge, or United Club. If you have a United Airlines ticket, you can use the United Club for free.

Below are some helpful links to the sleep options.

YotelAir in Terminals 4

Similar to Terminal 2, there are no sleeping pods at Heathrow but you can use YotelAir, a hotel within the airport. YotelAir, you can stay in a small cabin for up to 12 hours at a time.

The YotelAir cabins start at £30 for 4 hours, £40 for 8 hours, and £50 for 12 hours. If you want to add an extra bed, it is £10 per night.

They are a bit bigger than Sleeping Pods and actually look like a regular mini-hotel room with a bed, TV, and bathroom.

Below is an image of one YotelAir sleep area;

YotelAir London Heathrow is a convenient and unique hotel in terminal 4. We slept in the coolest Heathrow sleeping pods and this is the full review. #yotelair #yotel #airporthotel #londonheathrowhotel #wheretostayatheathrow #yotelairlondonheathrow

Aerotel London Heathrow

Another hotel within Heathrow Airport is the Aerotel London Heathrow. It is located in Terminal 3 and has 82 guest rooms which can be rented in blocks of 6, 9, 12 hours or overnight. The rates are from GBP 64.00 to 127 for Solo Plus package and GBP 76 to 152 for a Double Plus package.

Check its rates on TripAdvisor today here.

Sleep Pods at Heathrow Terminal 5:

Sofitel London Heathrow is the only hotel with direct access to Heathrow Terminal 5 through a 5-minute covered walkway. Sofitel combines French luxury with modern comfort.

Illustration 1 The hotel is adjacent to the international business and shopping centre Terminal 5, with its many restaurants, bars, and stores. There are also 2 spas and a fitness center on-site.

The Grand Suite has a separate bedroom with a king size bed and an LCD TV. The living room has a sofa bed, work desk, and another TV.

Image of Classic room queen size bed that you can sleep in as a sleep pod alternative
Classic Room, Queen size Bed. Credit: accor.com

Guests have free access to the Executive Lounge with its complimentary continental breakfast and evening drinks.

Rates start at £114 per night for one person.

Illustration 1

Classic Room, Twin Beds; Credit: Twin Bed at Sofitel listed by Accor.com

Heathrow Airport Terminal 3:

At Terminal 3, you can book any of the two available lounges. You can opt for Club Aspire or Number 1 Lounge which have the following amenities;

  • Relaxing environment away from the crows
  • Excellent runway views
  • Complimentary light meals and snacks
  • Range of soft and alcoholic drinks
  • Unlimited Wi-Fi and charging facilities
  • Quiet zone and business facilities available

Club Aspire costs 34.99 Pounds and No. 1 Lounge costs 36 Pounds

Heathrow Airport Terminal 3 lounges with their pricing

Over 16,200 customers that have booked Sofitel have given it an average rating of 4.5/5 and has a high rate of returning customers.

FAQs

Q: Where are the sleeping pods located in Heathrow Airport?

A: The pods are located in the First Lounge at London Heathrow Terminal 5.

Q: How much do the sleeping pods cost?

A: They cost £30 (about $40) for a 30-minute session, or £50 (about $66) for an hour-long session. You can also opt for cheap hotels that you can sleep in for 12 hours with free shuttles from and to Heathrow airport.

Q: What amenities do the pods have?

A: The pods are equipped with a pillow, duvet, reading light, and air conditioning.

Q: Are there any other locations where I can find sleeping pods at Heathrow Airport?

A: British Airways plans to add more pods to its lounges at Gatwick and JFK airports.

Q: Are the sleep cabins terminal 4 Heathrow good?

A: The YotelAir sleep cabins at Terminal 4 are a good option if you want to stay in a small cabin for up to 12 hours at a time. They require you to get a pass of at least 4 hours. Here is a full review by Victoria who spent a night on the sleep cabins/Yotel cabins at Terminal 4 when she had a layover on her way to Kuala Lumpur.

Q: What are some fun things to do at Heathrow airport during layover?

A: There are several things you can do during your layover depending on the amount of time you have until your next flight. We have a list of 18 things to do that you can choose from.