Layovers That Break the Bank (and Those That Don’t): The World’s Most Expensive Airports—and Their Wallet-Friendly Counterparts

We’ve all been there: stuck at an airport with hours to kill, surrounded by overpriced food and shopping that drains your wallet before your next flight.

But not all layovers have to leave you broke. Some airports, while pricey, offer value in terms of comfort and amenities. Others are surprisingly budget-friendly, offering opportunities to relax or even explore without spending a fortune.

Here’s a closer look at six of the world’s most expensive airports and some hidden gems where a layover might feel like a blessing rather than a burden.

Expensive Airports That Burn Through Your Budget

1. London Heathrow Airport (LHR), United Kingdom

Heathrow is a transit hub for millions, but its high-end shopping and dining mean you could easily overspend.

• Why It’s Pricey: Luxury brands and costly dining options dominate the terminals.
• Transportation: The Heathrow Express is fast but expensive ($25 one way). The Tube is cheaper ($7) but slower.

Money-Saving Tip: Stick to complimentary water refill stations and pack your own snacks.

2. Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), Singapore

Changi is more than an airport—it’s an attraction, with gardens, a rooftop pool, and endless dining. The downside? Many of these extras come at a premium.

• Why It’s Pricey: While some attractions are free, others (like the swimming pool) charge fees. Dining options can also add up.
• Transportation: The MRT is budget-friendly, but taxis start around $20 to downtown.

Money-Saving Tip: Focus on free attractions, like the Jewel’s Rain Vortex and butterfly garden, or take a free city tour if you have time.

3. Hamad International Airport (DOH), Doha, Qatar

Doha’s airport offers luxury at every turn, from fine dining to high-end shopping.

• Why It’s Pricey: Designer stores and premium services dominate, even for simple amenities like meals.
• Transportation: The Doha Metro is affordable, but private cars are steep ($50+).

Money-Saving Tip: Plan ahead to use free Wi-Fi and airport lounges with day passes.

4. Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), Paris, France

CDG pairs elegance with steep prices. Dining here can feel like you’re paying Paris café prices without the view.

• Why It’s Pricey: Inflated prices for basic food and drink, plus premium retail options.
• Transportation: The RER train is reasonable ($12), but taxis to Paris can hit $70+.

Money-Saving Tip: Grab snacks at a local grocery store before heading to the airport.

5. Dubai International Airport (DXB), UAE

DXB is packed with luxury retail and upscale dining, but it’s easy to spend too much while waiting for your next flight.

• Why It’s Pricey: Everything screams luxury, and even basics like coffee come at a premium.
• Transportation: The Dubai Metro is budget-friendly, but taxis start at $30.

Money-Saving Tip: If you have a long layover, enjoy affordable local food in Dubai instead of splurging at the airport.

6. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York, USA

JFK might not have Changi’s luxury, but it still manages to hit your wallet hard with overpriced food and parking fees.

• Why It’s Pricey: Basic meals cost double what you’d pay in the city, and transport costs into Manhattan can be significant.
• Transportation: The subway-AirTrain combo is cheap ($8.25), but rideshares are steep ($70+).

Money-Saving Tip: Bring your own snacks and avoid parking at the airport.

Affordable Airport Gems for a Pleasant Layover

While some airports drain your wallet, others offer a surprisingly pleasant experience without breaking the bank. Here are a few worth noting:

1. Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Malaysia

KUL combines efficiency with affordability. Dining and shopping options cater to all budgets, and it’s easy to get into the city.

• Why It’s Affordable: Local food courts offer delicious, inexpensive meals ($3–$5).
• Layover Perk: If you have time, the KLIA Ekspres train gets you into the city in 30 minutes ($15 round trip) for an affordable urban adventure.

2. Istanbul Airport (IST), Turkey

Istanbul’s new airport is massive and modern but still offers reasonable dining and free amenities.

• Why It’s Affordable: Numerous food options with local dishes for under $10.
• Layover Perk: Free city tours for long layovers make this a cultural stopover.

3. Helsinki Airport (HEL), Finland

Helsinki Airport focuses on traveler comfort and wellness without a hefty price tag.

• Why It’s Affordable: Free rest areas, clean showers, and reasonably priced meals.
• Layover Perk: Hop on a train to the city for just $5 and explore Helsinki during your stopover.

4. Changi Airport (SIN)

While it made the expensive list, Changi also offers tons of free perks that make it a gem for travelers on a budget.

• Layover Perk: Free gardens, art installations, and a 24/7 movie theater make it easy to pass the time without spending a dime.

5. Zurich Airport (ZRH), Switzerland

Despite Switzerland’s reputation for high prices, Zurich Airport is surprisingly efficient and budget-conscious.

• Why It’s Affordable: Basic meals are priced fairly, and public transit to the city is under $10.
• Layover Perk: With the city just 10 minutes away by train, you can easily explore Zurich between flights.

Final Thoughts: Picking the Right Stopover

Knowing what to expect from your layover can turn an annoying delay into an opportunity to explore or recharge. The key is preparation:

• Research in Advance: Look up dining options and free amenities before your trip.
• Pack Strategically: Snacks, a refillable water bottle, and a good book go a long way.
• Budget Wisely: If you know an airport is expensive, plan to avoid impulse buys or splurge strategically.

Whether you’re jetting through a luxury airport or relaxing at an affordable gem, the right mindset and a bit of planning can make all the difference. Have you experienced a standout layover? Share your tips and favorite airports in the comments!

Looking for More Travel Tips?

Check out these guides for more insights to save money and make the most of your trips year-round:

• The Best Time to Book Flights for Every Season
• The Sweet Spot for Booking Flights

Smart planning today means stress-free travel tomorrow. Happy travels!

Feature Image Credit: Pexels / Cyrill.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.