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Can you stay overnight at the Panama Airport?
Finding a place to stay overnight at Panama Airport will be easier with this guide. You can also discover alternatives near the airport.
Spending the night at an airport isn’t exactly fun, especially if you don’t have anything to make yourself comfortable or you’re not sure where to settle in for a decent rest before your flight. That’s why, if you’re wondering where you can stay overnight at Panama Airport, here’s a rundown of the spots that make dozing off a whole lot easier.
We’ll also share some tips to make your overnight stay more comfortable. And if you’d rather book a hotel or apartment instead, we’ll point you to the best options nearby, with good availability and prices. Keep reading for all the details.
Can you sleep at Tocumen International Airport?
Yes, you can sleep at Tocumen International Airport. Many travelers do, especially those with overnight layovers or very early flights. While the airport does not have a designated rest area, it is open 24 hours a day and there are places where you can settle in, particularly in the international departures area.
It is pretty common to see people stretched out across the seats in the waiting areas or even resting on the floor. Although this is not prohibited, there are no dedicated facilities like beds, dimly lit rest zones, or extras such as blankets and pillows, so it is best to come prepared.
If you are planning to spend the night at the airport, it helps to pack a few essentials like a blanket, eye mask, earplugs, and a portable charger. The lights and noise can make it tricky to get proper rest. Security staff are usually fine with travelers sleeping overnight, though they might ask for your passport and flight information just to confirm you are in transit.
Sleeping inside Tocumen International Airport
Even though there are no designated sleeping areas, plenty of travelers spend the night inside Panama Airport when they have long layovers, delays, or very early flights. If you decide to do the same, it helps to know the best spots to rest, what to bring with you, and how to prepare so the experience is as comfortable and safe as possible.
Here we tell you everything you need to know to sleep inside Tocumen Airport like an experienced traveler.
Tips for sleeping inside Tocumen International Airport
Before settling down to sleep somewhere in the airport, keep in mind some basic tips that will help you avoid discomfort:
- Arrive early: If you plan to spend the night there, it is best to arrive before 10 pm. Around that time the crowds thin out, making it easier to find an empty seat or a quiet corner.
- Find a safe area with movement: Although the airport is monitored, it is safer to sleep near well-lit areas where cleaning or security staff are present.
- Keep your documents ready: Airport or security staff may ask to see your flight details or passport, especially if you are sleeping in areas that are not typically used for resting.
- Secure your luggage: Use a strap or padlock to attach it to your seat or use it as a pillow. Don’t let it out of your sight.
What should you pack if you plan to sleep at Tocumen Airport?
Sleeping at an airport is not always comfortable, but a few key items can make a big difference. If you know you’ll be spending the night there, be sure to pack the following in your carry-on:
- Comfortable, warm clothing, as the air conditioning can be strong at night.
- A travel pillow or inflatable pillow, ideal if you plan to use the seats as a makeshift bed.
- A light blanket to cover yourself.
- Eye mask and earplugs, essential for blocking out light and noise from the environment.
- Snacks and water, because food options may be limited in the early hours of the morning.
- Portable charger, as power outlets may be occupied.
Recommended places to sleep inside the airport
Tocumen Airport has two main terminals, and while both stay open overnight, Terminal 1 usually offers more open seating and quieter corners to rest.
Some useful locations:
- International departure area (after security check): There are more comfortable seats, less noise, and an overall sense of greater security. It’s a good spot if you’ve already checked in.
- Gates near the ends of the terminal: Usually less crowded.
- Near gates 18 to 21: There is more space and it is a less busy area at night.
However, avoid areas that are too isolated or without visible security cameras.
VIP lounge services at the airport
Tocumen International Airport doesn’t have sleeping pods, but it does offer VIP lounges like The Lounge Panamá and Copa Club. While they aren’t designed for overnight stays, they provide comfortable chairs, snacks, showers, and Wi-Fi.
Some lounges are open to transit passengers flying business class, members, or anyone willing to pay a fee of around $35-45. They aren’t for sleeping, but they offer a much more comfortable alternative to the regular waiting areas.
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Sleeping at the airport might not seem ideal, but for many travelers it’s a practical way to save money and stay flexible. In Panama, with its many connecting flights, learning to make the most of airport spaces can cut down on accommodation costs. It also gives you a chance to experience a unique mix of people from all over the world sharing the same waiting area.
Where to stay near Tocumen International Airport
If you’d rather get a proper rest with a bed, shower, and more privacy, staying outside the airport is probably your best bet. The area around Tocumen International Airport offers plenty of lodging options for every budget, from hotels with shuttle service to Airbnb rooms or even couchsurfing.
Below, we list the most recommended options for staying near the airport and how to get to each one.
Recommended hotels near Tocumen Airport
There are several places to stay near the airport, ideal for travelers arriving late or with very early flights. Here are some of the top recommended options:
- Crowne Plaza Panamá Airport: It’s less than a five-minute drive from the airport and offers free 24/7 shuttle service, a pool, a restaurant, and comfortable rooms. Rates start at $85 per night.
- Hotel Riande Aeropuerto: Great for short stays, it features a pool, a restaurant, shuttle service, and is just 3 km from the airport. Average price: $70–90.
- Express Inn PTY Aeropuerto Hotel: A more budget-friendly and simple option, offering basic rooms, air conditioning, breakfast included, and airport shuttle for under $50.
Couchsurfing options near the airport
Although it’s less common near airports, you can find active Couchsurfing hosts in neighborhoods close to Tocumen who offer a couch or a room for a night. Areas like Juan Díaz or Las Acacias are ideal, with quick taxi or rideshare connections to the airport.
However, this option requires prior coordination and is not recommended if you arrive in the early hours of the morning, as it may be inconvenient for the host.
Airbnb options near the airport
Airbnb also has plenty of options nearby, often in private apartments or small studios. Common features include:
- Location: Residential areas such as Don Bosco or Tocumen.
- Prices: From $25 per night, depending on the type of accommodation and services.
- Transportation: Some hosts offer pickup for an additional fee. Check this before booking.
This can be a convenient option if you are looking for privacy at a good price.
Transportation tips for getting to your nearby accommodation
From the airport, you can use several options to get to your hotel or temporary accommodation:
- Authorized taxi services, available right at the exit.
- Apps such as Uber or DiDi, which work well in Panama and are usually cheaper.
- Free shuttles offered by some hotels. We recommend checking whether they are available 24 hours a day.
- We do not recommend public transportation if you arrive at night or have a lot of luggage, as it is not direct and requires transfers.
Another perk of staying near the airport is getting a glimpse of less touristy areas of Panama City. Some nearby hotels offer packages that include dinner, shuttle service, and breakfast, perfect for travelers with just one night who want a hassle free rest.
If you have a long layover during the day, you can opt for hourly stays or day passes at hotels with a pool and air conditioning to relax and refresh between flights.
Frequently asked questions about staying overnight at Panama Airport
Yes, the airport is open 24/7 and it is common for people in transit to sleep on the premises.
There are no exclusive areas for sleeping, but some areas of Terminal 1, especially near the boarding gates, are quieter and more suitable.
There are no capsules or beds, but some VIP lounges offer armchairs and basic services for an additional fee.
Yes, but we recommend sleeping in well-lit areas with lots of foot traffic and keeping an eye on your luggage at all times.
You can stay at nearby hotels like the Crowne Plaza or the Riande Aeropuerto, both offering free shuttle service to and from the terminal.
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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! ✈️🌍
