Day Passes: How to Rent a Hotel Room for a Long Layover

Did you know you can rent a hotel room just for a day?

Welcome to the magic of day passes, which give weary travelers a room to use during obscene layovers. (You might also see this offer billed as day rates.)

The setup is simple. Travelers who have a day-long layover and no energy to explore a city pay a small fee for a day pass at a hotel near the airport. In exchange, hotels earn on their unbooked rooms.

It’s a win-win… but how does it work? Do you just show up to a hotel and ask for a day rate? Is there a list somewhere that ranks the best hotels that offer day passes?

Let’s dig in.

How do hotel day passes work?

The goal of a hotel day pass is to allow travelers to escape an airport during an extra-long layover.

Unsurprisingly, airport hotels are the first option at your disposal. (Some even offer free shuttles to and from the airport, though that’s not the case across the board.) But you can also find day passes at hotels much farther from the airport.

Day passes are usually available first thing in the morning, letting you step off a red-eye, and then get some more downtime in a private room. Most hotel day passes end around 6 pm.

Every hotel has its own day pass check-in and check-out times—so be sure to ask for details.

Some day passes give guests the chance to use a hotel’s amenities, from pools to spas to workout rooms. However, certain day passes might be more limited or expensive—especially at four-star and five-star locations. Once again, read the fine print.

How can you find hotels that offer day passes?

The easiest way to find day passes is to use daypass, a platform that lists the best hotel day passes near airports around the world.

Hotels sign up for daypass, then showcase their unique deals. That means the list is always updated with the latest daypass offers.

On top of that, daypass curates lists that focus on offers that appeal to different types of travelers.

Fitness buffs, for example, are probably on the hunt for a deal that gives them access to a state-of-the-art gym. On the other hand, families might be after a more kid-friendly hotel with amenities like playgrounds or playrooms.

But daypass isn’t the only provider helping you find day rates at hotels.

There are also platforms like daycation. Daycation’s shtick is hotel passes in exclusive five-star locations that offer pretty insane amenities, from private beach access to world-class spa access.

Tips to find the best day rates

If you have a long layover and want to find a day pass, you need to answer one simple question.

Are you looking for a place to relax or an awesome place for a day-trip experience?

If you’re looking for a hotel to unwind, I suggest exploring daypass’s latest deals.

If you’d rather not bother with the platform, you can also learn more about hotel day passes by simply calling the front desk. This lets you find day passes that might not be offered online.

Once you know which airport your layover is in, you can look up hotels nearby, select your favorite, and call to ask about its day pass policies.

But if you want to unwind and enjoy your day pass, then I suggest using the daycation platform. Like the name suggests, the idea is to provide travelers with long layovers and unforgettable daytime adventures.

The more exotic the location of the airport, the cooler those daycations are.

La Compagnie: Inside the World’s Only Business Class Airline

Flying business class is a big deal.

Though it’s not quite as luxurious as a first-class ticket, business class offers a much more premium experience. Business class passengers can expect more personalized service, plenty of space, and elevated dining options.

Aside from added amenities and care, there are a few reasons that more passengers are opting for business class seats.

Those traveling with kids, for example, might pay more for a more comfortable flight—especially during long-haul trips. Those traveling for important work events, by contrast, might prefer seats where they’re more likely to get some shut-eye.

Regardless of the motivation, passengers expect a lot from their business class experience.

Some might actually seek out airlines that specialize in extravagant service. Semi-private airlines, for example, are steadily gaining popularity in the US. Not only do they offer a higher echelon of service, but they’re affordable for many travelers.

But semi-private airlines aren’t quite the same as La Compagnie, the only airline in the world that offers exclusive business class-only tickets.

Meet La Compagnie

La Compagnie is a well-kept secret in the luxury travel world—but it’s not a novel new idea by any stretch.

The company set up shop in 2013 before beginning operations in Paris in 2014. Though the airline is small, it offers an extremely upscale air travel experience.

La Compagnie flies from either an Airbus A321neo or a Boeing 757-200. All seats are full-flat to allow passengers to literally unwind while 35,000 feet in the air.

Pets are allowed, meals are whipped up by Michelin-star chefs, and free, unlimited Wi-Fi is offered throughout the journey.

Routes are fairly limited, taking passengers from New York City (Newark) to Paris (Orly), Milan (Malpensa), or Nice (Côte d’Azur). And La Compagnie only offers round trips across the Atlantic, which start at $2,400 per passenger.

(For context, I regularly fly budget between Barcelona and Chicago—which usually costs around $700 with one layover.)

The business class-only experience

Those features mentioned above should paint a pretty accurate picture—La Compagnie goes above and beyond to curate an exclusive and exceptional flying experience.

But let’s dig into all the little details that actually make that $2,400 price tag feel high-value.

Its full-flat seats come with perks like anti-allergenic pillows, electrical outlets, and travel care kits from trusted brands like Caudalie. Every guest also gets noise-canceling headphones, along with a 15.6-inch screen all to themselves.

Then there’s that French gastronomy. Menus aren’t just from famous chefs like David Toutain and Yann Couvreur.

They’re curated, four-course meals that are designed to showcase the best in French culinary traditions. Most importantly, there’s a champagne wine cellar.

And that’s really just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to features. (There’s a whole section of their website dedicated to pet care, for example.)

Is it like a semi-private airline?

La Compagnie is distinct from semi-private airlines in a few ways.

First, its scope is limited—and its team is dedicated. Despite its ten-year history, La Compagnie isn’t looking to grow at all costs. Instead, it’s looking to do what it does well.

Semi-private airlines, by contrast, tend to be more focused on growth.

Second, it’s French. That cultural element can be felt in the culinary offerings, along with the company’s emphasis on quality over growth. In other words, it’s highly boutique.

Third, La Compagnie offers private lounges for its flyers in each airport that it operates… but it doesn’t run from private airports like semi-private airlines do. That means that passengers aren’t treated to a private (and fast) security or customs experience.

That seems like a pretty big difference given La Compagnie is just as expensive as most semi-private airlines—especially considering it runs out of massive airports like Malpensa and Newark.

However, it’s in-plane offers are much more high-class, from the champagne cellar to the Michelin menus to the degree of personalized care.

Comparison Guide: Nashville vs Memphis

Tennessee is never a bad choice for vacation.

From bachelorette parties in Nashville to catching a live show in Memphis to exploring gems like Sevierville, there’s always a memorable adventure in reach.

That being said, it’s easy to get a bit turned around as an out-of-state traveler. While Americans across the country know they can’t go wrong in a place like Memphis or Nashville, not too many can name what differentiates these famous cities.

But when it comes to cost, activities, reputation, atmosphere, and more, there are key distinctions that you need to know before booking hotels or flights.

Want to explore Tennessee but aren’t sure which big city to visit? Here’s your comparison guide for Nashville vs Memphis.

Nashville is way bigger… and pricier

Nashville’s population has been rising steadily over the last few years. Its population recently reached over 1.2 million. Memphis, by contrast, has around 650,000 residents—around half the population of Nashville.

This changes the traveler’s experience in one crucial way: Spending.

Thanks to Nashville’s larger metropolitan area and its healthier economy, it’s Tennessee’s most expensive city.

And thanks to its reputation as a popular bachelor and bachelorette party destination, tourist infrastructure is readily available—but it’s pricey as hell compared to Memphis.

Depending on what type of trip you’re planning, you might consider sticking to Memphis for a more affordable vacation.

Country music vs blues

Tennessee has left its mark on American culture through its musical contributions.

Both Nashville and Memphis are renowned for their influence on modern music—in the same way that New Orleans is regarded as the birthplace of jazz.

But can you name the difference between the musical legacies from Nashville vs Memphis? Nashville is the de facto capital of country music. It’s home to the US’s Country Music Hall of Fame and hosts the CMAs—just to name a few.

Memphis, by contrast, is the birthplace of blues, which makes it the birthplace of subsequent genres like rock’n roll. Its famous downtown Beale Street was where early blues shows from the 1910s and 1920s first took off.

Memphis has a small-town vibe

Given Nashville is twice the size of Memphis, it shouldn’t be too surprising that Memphis offers more of a small-town vibe.

In fact, I’ve seen multiple residents compare the city to New Orleans. People are proud of its musical roots and welcoming atmosphere.

There’s also a stronger sense of Southern hospitality. Unlike Nashville, Memphis is located in the upper section of the Mississippi Delta.

That means the city is more ethnically diverse and a lot more similar to places like NOLA and Jackson, Mississippi. If you’re looking for a truly laid-back vibe, Memphis should be your choice.

Nashville has larger events & venues

On the other hand, if you’re on the hunt for massive venues and fancy shows, you can’t beat Nashville.

In fact, its downtown strip has transformed into a music-forward nightlife scene. From The Cannery Ballroom to the Station Inn, it’s hard to wander around without finding a great live music scene.

But it’s worth pointing out that you’ll be paying top dollar to hang out at these establishments. With its popularity rising, Nashville’s prices also continue to rise—especially in the hospitality industry.

Food staples: hot chicken vs BBQ

Just like their music scenes, you’re not going to be disappointed with either city when it comes to great eats.

Both are known for being stopovers on the US’s barbecue belt—but the BBQ scenes in each city are distinct. Memphis is known for traditional barbecue fare, while Nashville specializes in a dish called hot chicken.

Memphis slow-cooks its barbecue in pits. Most pitmasters are generous when it comes to brushing on sauces or dry rubs.

Nashville’s hot chicken is also generously seasoned—then fried and served atop a piece of white bread. The good news here is that you can’t go wrong with either.

Best YouTube Walking Tours for Treadmill Workouts

Virtual travel is one of the coolest new frontiers in tech.

The idea is simple: Thanks to travelers with state-of-the-art cameras, viewers can explore the world straight from their couch.

From official tours offered from the world’s most popular landmarks and museums to more casual YouTube walking tours, the horizons of virtual travel are rapidly expanding.

Some walking tours are even designed for at-home workouts.

If you have a treadmill and Wi-Fi, you can find a walking tour channel that lets you follow your intrigue across the globe—city by city, region by region, country by country.

Just about any YouTube walking tour channel makes for solid workout content. Simply select a channel, find a tour that catches your intrigue, make sure your treadmill is facing the screen, and then start strolling at your own pace.

If you don’t have a treadmill at home, you can still load up a walking tour on your smartphone and take it to the gym. Many treadmills have slots that let you arrange your screen for easy viewing.

Now onto the big question—how can you find solid YouTube walking tours for treadmill workouts? It’s not difficult. In fact, some channels are actually designed to be experienced while walking on a treadmill.

If you’re looking to scratch that travel itching while getting in those daily steps, here are the best YouTube walking tours for treadmill workouts.

Prowalk Tours

Explore here

This is one of the most high-production walking tour channels on YouTube. While it isn’t specifically designed for treadmill workouts (unlike the channels listed below), it’s a cinema-quality experience.

From the quality of the visuals to the scope of tours offered, there are literally dozens of hours of content for you to explore on your treadmill.

The only caveat is that Prowalk uses audio from the tours—which means there isn’t any background music to keep those legs moving, if that’s important to you.

On the other hand, if you’re after immersion, Prowalk Tours will make you feel like you’re actually there live.

City Walks

Explore here

Similar to Prowalk Tours, City Walks includes a very high-quality experience. You’ll feel effortlessly transported into each new city.

Because City Walks is specifically geared toward at-home treadmill workouts, you’re also treated to a more curated workout experience.

Once again, the only caveat is the channel’s audio—which doesn’t include music. However, you might enjoy the intermittent commentary from the host. It includes interesting facts about an area, along with insights into the walking route.

Wind Walk Travel Videos

Explore here

Looking for something more than just a basic jaunt around a city? After all, ramping up a workout is a lot easier when tours move at a quicker pace.

Wind Walk Travel Videos includes a few alternative options that pair well with a dynamic workout—including driving videos, river walks, and mile-high vistas from famous skyscrapers.

That range can help you get a bit more out of your workout if you’re feeling burned out by the standard walking tour fare.

Virtual Running Tours

Explore here

Here’s where the rubber meets the road—with the Virtual Running Tours channel. Videos take at-home runners on explorations of country roads, national parks, and other scenic areas.

The good news is that the channel is hosted by a medical doctor, meaning the videos are timed and structured in a healthy way.

The bad news is that the New Zealand scenery is a bit limited, as the channel focuses on areas close to the host. However, that hasn’t been a problem for the some 80,000 long-time fans and viewers of this channel.

Best Hostels for Adults Across the United States

Are you over thirty and ready to enter your hostel era?

Though hostels are traditionally the domain of young travelers and broke backpackers, there’s a growing number of great hostels for adults.

Though they aren’t billed as ‘Adult Hostels’, they’ve got all the features that those with slightly more refined tastes and slightly deeper pockets are looking for.

I’m talking about features like private rooms and bathrooms, balcony views, large beds (no bunks), insulated walls, and adequate temperature control.

Best of all, guests still get all the usual perks from hostel living—such as great communal areas, shared amenities like kitchens, and cool travelers ready to mingle.

All while saving a bit on lodging.

If you’re interested in exploring the communal world of hostels for adults in the United States, then I suggest staying in one of these big cities.

Freehand Miami, Miami

Looking for an affordable and unforgettable stay in Miami? Head to the Freehand, right on Miami Beach.

Along with its dorm-style rooms, guests can book a private guest room. What I enjoy about the Freehand is its curated list of activities, along with its list of recommendations for visitors.

The best part? The Broken Shaker is a famous Miami cocktail bar that’s located right on the grounds. It lets you sample the best in local ingredients.

Book a room here

Freehand New York, New York City

If you like the style and feel of the Freehand Miami, book a stay at their New York City counterpart. Just like in Miami, location is a huge feature here. The Freehand New York is located in the Flatiron District—one of the most picturesque and iconic Manhattan neighborhoods.

Aside from its great location, the Freehand also offers good dining at the Comodo restaurant and—you guessed it—Broken Shaker cocktail bar. I also think the rooms are particularly stylish thanks to their custom artwork and dark wood features.

Book a room here

HighRoad Hostel, Washington DC

Stately and outright gorgeous, HighRoad works hard to differentiate itself from other hostels for adults. To be fair, this is a hybrid hostel-hotel establishment—one that’s elevated thanks to its location inside an old Victorian mansion.

It focuses more strongly on its hotel features while also offering more affordable dorm-style rooms.

It’s also in a solid location, which lets you walk around DC’s most pedestrian-friendly hotspots. But my favorite amenity here is the grand style. Even its sitting rooms feel effortlessly elevated.

Book a room here

Found Hotel Chicago River North

I love the Found Hotel in Chicago. Though it’s billed as a hotel instead of a hostel, it offers shared bunkbed rooms. Similar to the HighRoad in DC, its interior décor is austere and old-school—in all the right ways.

But what I love is the curated list of activities and communal spaces. They’re designed for guests to mingle while also enjoying the best Chicago has to offer. That’s an important part of the Sonder ethos, which is the group that runs Found Hotel.

Book a room here

Samesun Venice Beach, Venice Beach

The main appeal of the Samesun is its proximity to Venice beach—which is literally steps away across the street.

You’ll also be within walking distance of Venice Skate Park and the Santa Monica Pier. Aside from its location, I also adore the building’s charm.

Adults can easily book private rooms that are spacious, bright, and fitted with all the hotel essentials. I’ve even seen reviews of families staying here—which should clue you in that the vibe is open and the space geared for people of all ages.

Book a room here

How to Get into Airport Lounges—For Non-Members

We’ve all caught a glimpse into an airport lounge during a low moment at the airport and thought… Wouldn’t it be nice?

Airport lounges are like sheltered little oases in the cruel desert of air travel. Unfortunately, they’re reserved for the select few—usually, elite status members of airline loyalty programs or passengers with first and business-class boarding passes.

While passengers heading through fantastic airports won’t likely need an airport lounge, having access to these relaxing areas is never a bad idea.

But how can you gain access to airport lounges without paying for a pricey ticket or joining a membership program?

There are quite a few ways—and none require forking over thousands.

Here’s how to get into airport lounges for non-members and non-first-class flyers.

Buy a day pass

Want access to an airport lounge? The easiest way to get in as an infrequent flyer is to do a bit of research beforehand.

Look up the airport where you have a layover, then look for lounges from the airline you’re flying with. While many airlines offer day passes, from United to American, some only let you take advantage if you’re flying with them.

Day passes are surprisingly affordable, with most options costing less than $100.

That being said, there are a few caveats.

First, it might only be worth it to take advantage if you have a long layover. Second, keep in mind that during peak travel season, even lounges will be packed. Third, look up what time the lounge opens and closes. Some shut down as early as 7 pm.

Keep in mind that you can also purchase annual memberships to airline-sponsored lounges—no membership or elite status required.

These cost between $500-$1,000 annually, depending on the airline. American Airlines Admirals Club Memberships cost $850 for the year, for example.

Join Priority Pass’s lounge network

Aside from buying a one-time day pass, the easiest way to get into airport lounges is via lounge networks.

Unfortunately, one of the most expansive lounge booking services, LoungeBuddy, recently announced that it will shut down in January 2025. That means that the main lounge network serving Americans is Priority Pass—which isn’t a bad choice at all.

Priority Pass’s massive global network allows you to buy a one-time day pass to its lounges or pay for an annual membership. With around 1,500 locations around the world, this is the best option for frequent international travelers.

Pro tip: If you’re interested in Priority Pass and have a high-fee travel credit card, check that it doesn’t already offer Priority Pass access—it’s a common perk.

Use your credit card perks

Dozens of credit cards offer unique airport perks—lounge access included. If you have a high-status credit card from a major provider or are part of a co-branded hotel credit card program, you might already have access to lounges.

Here’s how to get into airport lounges via popular credit cards:

The Platinum Card from American Express gives holders direct access to over 1,400 airport lounges. The best are Centurion Lounges, along with Priority Pass Select options and Plaza Premium Lounges.
Chase Sapphire Reserve offers access to over 1,300 lounges around the world. Holders have access to Chase Sapphire Lounges by The Club, along with Priority Pass Select lounges.
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card gives holders direct access to its Capital One Lounges, along with Priority Pass and Plaza Premium lounges.
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card comes with Priority Pass Select membership.
HSBC Elite Credit Card includes Priority Pass Select membership.
United Club Infinite Card comes with access to all United Club locations and Star Alliance lounges.
US Bank Altitude Reserve Vis Infinite Card includes eight visits per year to Priority Pass lounges.
Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card includes access to Delta Sky Clubs and Centurion Lounges—but only when flying with Delta.