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Can you stay overnight at Gatwick Airport?
Got a long layover? Can you stay overnight at Gatwick Airport? No worries, sleeping there is totally possible.
Your flight from London leaves at dawn, the trains have stopped running, and the hotels near the airport are too expensive. In that situation, many travelers ask the same question: can you stay overnight at Gatwick Airport? The answer is yes, and the best part is that it is more common than you might think.
Gatwick is London’s second largest airport and one of the busiest in Europe. Every month, thousands of passengers spend the night there, whether it is for an early connection, an unexpected delay, or simply to save on accommodation. The key is knowing how to do it right.
In this guide we share how to get some rest at Gatwick, from the best spots to sleep and practical advice, to what to bring along, paid options for extra comfort, and nearby places to stay if you prefer to step outside the airport.
Read on to find out how to turn a night of waiting into a useful and smooth break.
Can you stay overnight at Gatwick Airport?
Yes, you can sleep at Gatwick Airport, and in fact it is quite common for travelers with early morning flights or long overnight layovers. The airport is open 24 hours a day in both the South Terminal and the North Terminal, although access to certain areas may be limited depending on the time and location.
At night, especially between one and four in the morning, security staff often walk through the terminals and may ask to see your boarding pass. As long as you can show that you are in transit or waiting for a flight, you should not run into any problems.
The South Terminal is generally more comfortable for sleeping, with wide spaces, more services open at night, and areas where travelers regularly rest. The North Terminal tends to be a bit noisier, but you can still find quiet spots if you know where to look.
How to sleep at Gatwick Airport?
If you plan to spend the night at Gatwick Airport, you are far from alone. Many travelers do the same each night, so getting a decent spot to rest usually means arriving early and knowing the best areas.
Next, we share key tips, what to pack in your bag, and the best spots to sleep for free or pay for extra comfort right inside the airport.
Tips for sleeping inside Gatwick
Gatwick is a busy airport, so for a peaceful night it helps to arrive before midnight and claim a comfortable spot. The airport is generally safe, but it is smart to keep your bags close or even use them as a pillow. Some travelers bring a small cable or chain to secure their luggage to a chair. These precautions are especially useful if you are a heavy sleeper. If you are traveling with someone, you can take turns resting and watching over your bags.
It helps to have your boarding pass within reach since security checks often happen at night. Try to find a quiet spot with soft lighting. Some areas play music or announcements all night, so earplugs and an eye mask can make a big difference if you want to get some decent rest.
Overnight kit for spending the night at the airport
Even though Gatwick is well heated and kept clean, it is always a good idea to prepare a little rest kit in advance. The good news is that most items are small enough to fit in a backpack, such as:
- Warm clothing or layers (nights can be cold).
- Eye mask and earplugs.
- Neck pillow or inflatable pillow.
- Light blanket or large scarf.
- Snacks and reusable water bottle.
- Power bank for your cell phone.
Following these tips, you can catch some rest even on the toughest seats. It won’t be a luxury mattress, but it will help you regain energy and give your body a break.
Recommended places to sleep inside the airport
Gatwick Airport has two main terminals, South and North, connected by a free shuttle train that runs every few minutes around the clock. Each terminal has its own check-in areas, security, gates, services, lounges, and public transport access. When it comes to finding a quiet spot to sleep, however, each terminal has its own characteristics:
The South Terminal is the best choice for sleeping. On the ground floor, before security, you’ll find long benches and areas with less foot traffic. Travelers often rest near the Tesco Express, which is open 24 hours. There are also quiet corners by the elevators and emergency exits.
The North Terminal has fewer spaces, but you can find benches without armrests near the shuttle train entrances and close to the Costa Coffee. It isn’t as comfortable as the South Terminal, but arriving early gives you a better chance of finding a decent spot.
In both terminals, the floors are clean, so many travelers choose to sleep on a mat or blanket.
Payment options for sleeping at Gatwick Airport
If you want more privacy or a break from sleeping on a bench, Gatwick has options made for resting travelers. You can choose from private pods with showers or VIP lounges available by the hour for a much more comfortable experience.
YOTELAIR Gatwick (South Terminal)
YOTELAIR is a kind of capsule hotel inside the airport, ideal for travelers who need a few hours of rest between flights. It is located in the South Terminal, before security in the public area, so you can use it even if you haven’t checked in yet.
Their private cabins are soundproofed and fully equipped, guaranteeing a good night’s sleep. They feature:
- Comfortable futon bed
- Private bathroom with rain shower
- Desk and workspace
- Free high-speed Wi-Fi
- Dimmable ambient lighting and TV with entertainment system
You can book by the night or in four-hour blocks, depending on how long you need to rest.
- Estimated price: Prices start at about $55 for four hours and around $100 for a full night. Rates can vary depending on the type of cabin, the time of day, and demand.
- Continental breakfast (optional): $11
- Check-in: Automatic via self-service machines.
- Reservations: Via the YOTEL website or platforms such as Booking.
Plaza Premium Lounge (North Terminal)
Located in the international departures area of the North Terminal, this VIP lounge is open to both economy and business travelers, as long as you pay for access or have memberships like Priority Pass, LoungeKey, or certain credit cards.
The lounge has comfortable seating where you can relax and comes with all the premium amenities, like a buffet, a full-service bar, TV, high-speed WiFi, charging stations, and a kids area, which is great if you are traveling with children. There are also quiet spaces for those who need to work while waiting for their next flight.
- Estimated price: From $55 for three hours (may vary depending on the time slot).
- Reservations: Online via the Plaza Premium website, LoungeBuddy, or directly at the entrance, subject to availability.
Without a doubt, this is another excellent option if you want to relax before your flight, take a shower, or simply have a comfortable and quiet place to wait.
Don’t rely on airport WiFi
While Gatwick Airport offers high-speed WiFi, public networks are not always secure. If you need to work, send or receive files, make video calls, or access your online banking, it is a good idea to have a VPN and your own mobile data. For short stays, you can use a UK eSIM with unlimited data for the days you need, or for longer trips, consider a monthly plan from Holafly.
Their unlimited data plan lets you browse freely without worrying about limits or relying on airport WiFi. You can even share it with other devices, and global coverage starts at $64.90 a month with no contract. The eSIM works in over 170 countries, so you’ll have data not just in London but across Europe and around the world.
Holafly’s monthly plans are perfect for frequent travelers, digital nomads, international students, remote workers, or anyone who wants to have their own mobile data while on the go.
Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 170 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍
Where to stay near Gatwick Airport?
If staying overnight at the airport isn’t your thing and you’d rather sleep in a hotel or apartment, but still want to be close to the airport, Gatwick has plenty of options. You can choose hotels with free shuttles or more casual stays like Airbnb and Couchsurfing, all geared toward travelers passing through.
Below, we tell you about the best options near the airport, what to expect at each one, and how to get there without any complications.
Recommended hotels in the vicinity of and within Gatwick Airport
Within a 10-minute drive of the terminals, there are plenty of hotels, many offering shuttle service and 24-hour reception. They are designed for short stays and often have flexible check-in and check-out, making them a great choice if you want to sleep offsite without going too far. Some hotels are even located inside the airport itself!
Some notable options:
- Bloc Hotel Gatwick (within the South Terminal): Modern, convenient, and just steps away from security. From $125 per night.
- Premier Inn London Gatwick Airport (North Terminal): Connected to the North Terminal by a covered walkway, it offers comfortable rooms starting at around $95 per night.
- Hampton by Hilton London Gatwick Airport: Located inside the North Terminal. Includes breakfast and gym. From $140 per night.
- Travelodge Gatwick Airport Central: Cheapest option, five minutes away by taxi or bus. From $60 per night.
Tip: If you’re traveling during peak season, book in advance, as prices go up and hotels fill up fast.
Couchsurfing options near Gatwick Airport
Although not as widespread as in big cities, you can find hosts in nearby towns like Crawley, Horley, or Redhill. They are all within 20 minutes of the airport and accessible by train or taxi.
Couchsurfing is a great option if you want to experience local life and don’t mind crashing on a couch or an air mattress. In exchange, you get a free place to stay and often a friendly chat before bedtime.
Airbnb options near the airport
Airbnb offers everything from private rooms to entire homes in nearby residential areas. Prices are usually lower than hotels, especially if you are sharing the space with others.
Reference prices:
- Private rooms in Horley or Crawley: From $50 per night.
- Entire apartments: Between $80-140, depending on the season and location.
These are good options if you arrive in the afternoon and want to rest with more privacy and flexibility.
Transportation tips for getting to your accommodation
Gatwick Airport is well connected to nearby towns, so you’ll have plenty of options for getting to and from your accommodation.
- Trains: Gatwick Airport station is integrated into the terminals. There are frequent services to Horley, Crawley, Redhill, and London.
- Local buses: Lines such as Fastway 10 or 20 connect the airport with nearby residential areas.
- Taxis and ride-hailing services (Uber, Bolt): Available 24 hours a day, ideal if you have a lot of luggage or are arriving outside of train operating hours.
Frequently asked questions about sleeping at Gatwick Airport
Yes, you can stay overnight without any problem. Gatwick is open 24 hours, and there are no restrictions on spending the night in the airport, even in public areas. Security staff do make rounds during the night and may ask to see your boarding pass, so keep it handy. As long as you are waiting for a flight, you are free to stay.
Yes. In the South Terminal, Tesco Express stays open all night, making it a convenient place to pick up snacks, drinks, or a quick bite on a budget. Both terminals also have vending machines, though with limited choices. Some cafés, like Costa or Pret, open very early around 4 or 5 am, but usually close by 10 pm.
Only in certain paid areas. Showers are available in the Plaza Premium Lounge in the North Terminal, which you can access with memberships like Priority Pass or by paying for entry. Another option is to book a YOTELAIR pod in the South Terminal, which comes with a private bathroom. Outside of these spaces, the airport does not offer public showers.
Yes, you can find power outlets in both terminals, especially near rest areas, restaurants, and gates. During busy times they may be in use, so bringing a portable charger or a multi-plug adapter can be very handy if you need to keep your phone or laptop charged while you wait.
No problem. The free shuttle train between the North and South Terminals runs 24 hours a day, every three minutes or so. The ride takes just two minutes and is clearly signposted, making it quick, safe, and easy to get between terminals even at night.
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Hi! I'm a Spanish-English translator working with Holafly, helping bring travel content to life for curious travelers. As a digital nomad with a passion for exploring, I'm always adding new spots to my bucket list. If you love to travel like me, stick around because you're in the right place to find inspiration for your next trip! ✈️🌍
