Nobody likes being stuck at the airport. But if you find yourself with time to spare at Brisbane Airport, you’re in luck! BNE serves as a major hub for Brisbane and Southeast Queensland, connecting travelers to destinations around the globe. And with millions of passengers passing through each year, the airport is packed with ways to entertain and relax.

Let’s explore how you can turn your layover into a mini-adventure! Whether you’re a foodie looking for a delicious meal, a shopaholic eager to browse unique souvenirs, or simply someone who wants to unwind before your next flight, this guide will help you discover the best of Brisbane Airport.

Explore Brisbane Airport:

Retail Therapy: Find the perfect souvenir, treat yourself, or grab those last-minute travel essentials.

• Seed Heritage: Discover stylish and contemporary women’s clothing.
• Country Road: Find classic Australian fashion for men and women.
• Witchery: Explore contemporary women’s fashion.
• Oroton: Shop luxury leather goods, handbags, and accessories.
• Tommy Hilfiger: Discover classic American style.
• Sportsgirl: Find trendy and affordable fashion for young women.
• Peter Alexander: Relax in comfortable sleepwear and loungewear.
• Australian Way: Find authentic Australian souvenirs and gifts to remember your trip.
• Newslink: Browse books, magazines, newspapers, and gifts.
• Wild Earth: Gear up for your next adventure with outdoor clothing and travel accessories.
• Purely Australian: Support local artisans with Australian-made products, souvenirs, and gifts.
• WHSmith: Grab snacks, drinks, books, magazines, and travel necessities.
• Relay: Pick up travel essentials and reading material.
• Airport Pharmacy: Get any medications or toiletries you might need.
• Flight Centre: Book last-minute tours or get travel advice.
• Duty-Free Americas: Save on liquor, tobacco, perfumes, cosmetics, and confectionery.

A Culinary Journey: Explore a diverse range of dining options to satisfy your cravings.

• McDonald’s: A familiar and quick meal option.
• Subway: Build your own healthy sandwich or salad.
• Hungry Jack’s: A quick and tasty burger fix.
• Boost Juice: Refresh with a healthy juice or smoothie.
• Krispy Kreme: Indulge in a sweet treat.
• Coffee Club: Relax with a coffee and light meal.
• Merlo Caffe: Enjoy a delicious locally roasted coffee.
• The Coffee Roasters: Discover specialty coffee and light bites.
• Ritual Coffee Roasters: Another great option for coffee lovers.
• Sushi Sushi: Enjoy fresh and delicious Japanese cuisine.
• Corbett & Co. Bar and Grill: Savour modern Australian cuisine.
• Noodle Box: Satisfy your noodle cravings with Asian-inspired dishes.

Relax and Recharge: Escape the airport bustle and unwind before your flight.

• Qantas Club: Enjoy comfortable seating, food, drinks, and Wi-Fi.
• Virgin Australia Lounge: Relax and refresh with similar amenities.
• Plaza Premium Lounge: Access comfortable seating, food, drinks, and more. (May require payment or membership)
• Air New Zealand Lounge: Relax before your Air New Zealand flight.
• Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounge: Enjoy premium amenities before your Singapore Airlines flight.

Stay Connected: Stay in touch and plan your next adventure with free and reliable Wi-Fi throughout the airport.

Enhance Your Travel Experience at Brisbane Airport

Long layovers. Those two words can strike fear into the heart of any traveler. But what if, instead of dreading them, you saw them as an opportunity? With a little planning and creativity, you can transform those stretches of airport time into moments of relaxation, productivity, or even adventure. Let’s explore how to conquer layovers and enhance your overall travel experience:

Rest and Rejuvenation: Your Oasis in the Airport Jungle

• Airport Hotels: Your Home Away From Home: A truly long layover, especially overnight, calls for more than just a quick nap in a chair. Airport hotels offer a haven of comfort and convenience. Booking a day room grants you access to amenities like comfortable beds, private showers, swimming pools, and fitness centers. Imagine the bliss of a refreshing swim and a good night’s sleep before continuing your journey. It’s an investment in your well-being that can significantly reduce travel fatigue. Consider booking in advance, especially during peak travel times.
• Spa Treatments: Pamper Yourself in Transit: Who says travel can’t be luxurious? Many modern airports boast spas offering a range of treatments from massages and facials to manicures and pedicures. Indulging in a spa treatment during your layover is the perfect way to de-stress, rejuvenate, and emerge feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the next leg of your trip. Think of it as a mini-vacation within your vacation!

Work and Productivity: Making the Most of Downtime

• Business Centers and Quiet Corners: Your Mobile Office: Layovers don’t have to mean a standstill in your work life. Utilize airport business centers equipped with computers, printers, and reliable Wi-Fi to catch up on emails, prepare presentations, or even hold virtual meetings. If a full business center isn’t available, seek out a quiet corner in a lounge, restaurant, or even near a gate (but away from the main thoroughfare) to focus and be productive. Noise-canceling headphones are your best friend here!

Beyond the Basics: Turning Layovers into Adventures

• Airport Tours and Amenities: Some airports offer guided tours showcasing their art installations, historical significance, or even behind-the-scenes operations. Check if your layover airport offers such experiences. Many airports also have unique amenities like art museums, gardens, or even movie theaters. Explore these options to make your layover more engaging.
• Exploring the City (If Time Permits): If your layover is long enough and visa regulations allow, consider a short trip into the city. Many airports have convenient transportation links to nearby attractions. A quick city tour or a visit to a local restaurant can add an exciting dimension to your journey. Just be sure to factor in travel time to and from the airport to avoid missing your flight.

Planning is Key: A Checklist for Layover Success

The key to a successful layover is planning. Research your layover airport in advance. Identify the amenities and services available, and book hotels or spa treatments if desired. Here’s a handy checklist to help you make the most of your layovers:

• Before You Go:
  • [ ] Research your layover airport: Look for maps, amenities, restaurants, shops, and transportation options.
  • [ ] Check visa requirements: If you plan to leave the airport, ensure you have the necessary travel documents.
  • [ ] Book in advance: Reserve airport hotel rooms, spa treatments, or tours to secure your spot.
  • [ ] Pack essentials in your carry-on: Include items like a travel pillow, eye mask, charger, snacks, and entertainment.
  • [ ] Download entertainment: Load up your phone or tablet with movies, music, or podcasts.
• At the Airport:
  • [ ] Locate your gate: Familiarize yourself with the location of your connecting flight’s gate.
  • [ ] Check flight status: Ensure your connecting flight is on time.
  • [ ] Utilize airport Wi-Fi: Connect to the internet to stay connected and informed.
  • [ ] Explore airport amenities: Take advantage of restaurants, shops, lounges, or other facilities.
  • [ ] Relax and recharge: Use your layover time to rest, rejuvenate, and prepare for your next flight.

Secure Airport Parking

If you need a safe and secure place to leave your car, Alpha Airport Parking has depots in Brisbane Airport. We’ll take good care of your vehicle while you’re away and shuttle you to your terminal for free. Visit our website to book your reservation today.

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in 2016 and has been updated for freshness, accuracy and comprehensiveness.