By Melbourne Airport (MEL) or Tullamarine Airport is Australia’s busiest international terminal. If you have a long layover at this airport, do not worry.
In case you are well prepared and have all the information you need; your long waiting time is not wasted. This is a survival guide on how to survive a long layover at Melbourne Airport.
Melbourne Airport Structure
Melbourne Airport consists of four terminals:
- Terminal 1 (T1) – Domestic Qantas operations.
- Terminal 2 (T2) – International.
- Terminal 3 (T3) – Domestic Virgin Australia operations.
- Terminal 4 (T4) – Low-cost carriers like Jetstar, Tigerair, and Rex.
All the terminals are within walking distance and fairly close proximity, so there isn’t a huge inconvenience running over and popping into different parts of the airport.
SkyBus also serves regional cities and the city, though, if you have to get in and out on a long layover.
Things to Do During a Long Layover
Here are a few things that you can do while you are waiting for a long layover at Melbourne Airport.
- Relax in an Airport Lounge
You don’t have to fly business or first class to enjoy a couple of pay-to-use lounges:
- Plaza Premium Lounge (T2) – Open to all departing passengers for cash, hot food, drink, showers, and quiet room.
- Marhaba Lounge (T2) – Another friendly lounge with hot food and drink.
- Rex Lounge (T4) – Open to Rex passengers but can buy on a pass.
- Airline-Specific Lounges – If you simply just happen to be the frequent flyer with carriers such as Qantas or Virgin, then you can perhaps obtain lounge passes from them.
The lounges themselves offer treats such as comfortable chairs, speedy Wi-Fi, and free refreshments, which are the icing on this great terminal break-out cake.
- Discover the Culinary Scene
Melbourne proper has such a wonderful food culture, and of course, there are plenty of cafes in the airport as well:
- Café Vue (T2) – Gourmet sandwiches, pastries, and coffee.
- St. Ali (T3) – Melbourne coffee chain favorite among coffee lovers.
- Urban Provodore (T2) – Locally inspired, freshly made food.
- Bar Pulpo (T2) – Spanish tapas and beverages for those who enjoy having a less formal meal.
- McDonald’s, Hungry Jack’s, Subway (T1 & T4) – Convenience for the comfort snack.
- Get Some Rest
In case your layover is at night, consider your overnight resting facilities:
- Sleep Pods – Available in some lounges to nap in a jiffy.
- Parkroyal Melbourne Airport Hotel – Within walking distance of terminals for the convenience of an uninterrupted rest.
- Holiday Inn Melbourne Airport – Non-schedule pick-up ride between terminal and hotel, with silence rooms.
- Quiet Zones – Portions of some areas of the airport with silent waiting lounges where you simply sit and relax.
4. Stay Active
- Melbourne Airport Walking Routes – You need to walk around the terminal so you will not get stiff legs.
- Outside Spaces – Sections of some terminals with outside spaces in which you are exposed to open air.
- Exercise and Yoga – You can attempt minute stretching in less busy areas.
5. Shop to your Heart’s Content
Melbourne Airport does have some shopping to do:
- Duty-Free (T2) – Purchase duty-free liquor, perfumes, cosmetics, and luxury goods.
- Australian Souvenirs – Visit stores like Australian Way for souvenirs and memorabilia.
- Upscale Brands – Pick up at Michael Kors, Hugo Boss, and Victoria’s Secret stores.
- Tech Stores – Fill up with electronics, headsets, and travel accessories at JB Hi-Fi.
- Pharmacies – Get a pick up of travel goods, scripts, or essentials toiletries.
6. Stay Connected with Free Wi-Fi and Catch Up on Work
Melbourne Airport offers unlimited use free Wi-Fi, so you can browse the net, view a video, or send an email.
You can also charge equipment from power points at many locations around the airport. For work in quiet areas, lounges will usually offer work surface and power points within an area.
7. Visit an Australian Attraction
If you have more than six hours to spare, do something more than the airport:
- Sunbury Wine Region – Only a 20-minute taxi trip from some of the restored wineries.
- Essendon DFO (Direct Factory Outlets) – Cheap value for money discounted shopping and only a 15-minute car trip.
- Melbourne CBD – If your layover is between 8-10 hours or more, it’s totally worth taking a SkyBus (30 minutes) and walk around Federation Square, Royal Botanic Gardens, or grab lunch at one of the celeb laneway café options.
- Woodlands Historic Park – A serene nature park near the airport, a good option for a quick walk or picnic.
8. Pamper Yourself
- Massage and Spa Services – Can be had at Plaza Premium Lounge, or go to other spas near Melbourne Airport.
- Beauty and Grooming – Beauty and grooming, haircut, and facial are provided at some outlets on an emergency basis.
- Shower Facilities – Provided at lounges and public amenities.
9. Entertain Yourself
- Watch Movies or TV Shows – Can be streamed via the airport Wi-Fi.
- Read a Book – WHSmith and Relay shops are full of books to read.
- Play Games – If you bring a gaming device or a notebook, there are plenty of game spots in the airport where you can play games.
- Socialize – Airport Cafe and bar shops are where you mingle with other passengers and hear their stories.
Comfort Layover Tips
Here are a few tips on how you can be comfortable while on a long layover at Melbourne Airport.
1. Pack Wisely
- Bring a sleeping blanket and pillow if you rest.
- Bring a power bank in case the phone battery is depleted.
- Bring noise-cancelling headphones to muffle terminal noise.
2. Be Well-nourished and Hydrated
- Bring enough water.
- Light snacks to remain awake without sleeping.
3. Monitor Security and Customs
- If your layover is an off-airport layover on an international flight, make sure to bring the necessary visa.
- Come back at least two hours prior to your next flight.
4. Read Airline Policies
- Some airlines provide free hotel stays if there are long layovers—read your airline.
- For a layover, if your flight is cancelled, ask for accommodation or food vouchers.
Final Thoughts!
A long layover at Melbourne Airport does not have to be stressful or boring. If you want to unwind, visit some sights, shop, eat, or work, there is something for everyone.
If you approach it with the right attitude, you might even find that you have a great time during your layover as a great little travel adventure into your next flight.
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