For years, airport showers were seen as a luxury for first-class travelers or VIPs. But now, they are gaining popularity among everyday fliers. The reason? Travelers want to feel fresh, healthy, and ready for their next destination.
Many people are sharing their airport shower experiences on TikTok, showing private stalls, towels, and even shampoo offered at these facilities. For some, a hot shower during a layover can completely change their travel experience.
“Showering at the airport makes a world of difference,” says Peter Shankman, a New York-based corporate keynote speaker and author who travels over 250,000 miles every year.
Long-haul flights and overnight journeys can leave travelers feeling greasy and tired. “You’ve been on a plane all night, you’re greasy, you’re gross,” Shankman says. “To get a shower and let the hot water wash all the ‘plane’ off you makes a world of difference.”
Some of the best shower facilities are found overseas, where long connections make it essential for travelers to reset between flights. Zurich Airport is a top pick, offering private shower rooms in lounges where passengers can freshen up before continuing their journey.
In the U.S., several airport lounges now offer shower suites. United Polaris, American Flagship, and Delta Sky Club locations all provide these amenities, according to company websites.
Programs like Priority Pass give travelers access to lounges with shower facilities at airports worldwide. However, access depends on the airport and airline, with elite status or lounge membership offering the most reliable option.
Some lounges sell day passes, and some international airports have independent shower or spa facilities that any traveler can pay to use.
The process is generally simple. After checking into a lounge, travelers go to the shower desk. Staff assign them a room or place them on a waiting list. Many lounges notify passengers through apps or buzzers when a shower suite is ready.
Basic toiletries such as shampoo, soap, and towels are usually provided. Shankman says showers are generally cleaned after each use, ensuring a hygienic experience.
Timing is important. Travelers should head straight to the lounge after landing, as wait times can rise sharply when multiple international flights arrive simultaneously. Shankman has seen waits of up to two or three hours at some airports.
First-time users should come prepared. “Always pack a clean pair of socks and underwear,” Shankman advises. “The last thing you want is to take a great shower and then have to put back on what you wore during the flight.”
In addition to showers, travelers are asking why airports do not offer more wellness-focused amenities, such as gyms or public shower suites. This trend reflects the growing MAHA push for healthier living in all public spaces.
Frequent fliers on Reddit have compared their experiences, noting that access can vary widely depending on airline status and airport location. Some have shared tips for maximizing lounge time and avoiding peak wait periods.
The Trump administration recently highlighted a $1 billion initiative for family-friendly airport improvements, showing that airports are increasingly focusing on passenger comfort and health.
Airports are also leveraging technology to enhance the shower experience. Apps can alert travelers when a suite is available, and some lounges offer real-time updates on wait times.
Travelers are finding that a shower can make the difference between a rough, uncomfortable layover and a productive, energized day. For business travelers or tourists with tight schedules, this small luxury can have a big impact.
Even for those who travel infrequently, a quick shower can help prevent travel fatigue, improve mood, and maintain personal hygiene. This makes airport showers a practical wellness tool, not just a luxury.
Shankman emphasizes that awareness is key. “Know which lounges offer showers, check wait times, and plan ahead. A little preparation goes a long way,” he says.
In short, airport showers are no longer a rare perk. They are becoming a standard part of healthy, modern travel. Whether you are on a long-haul flight or a short connection, taking time to freshen up can make your trip far more enjoyable.
As travelers continue to share their experiences online, the popularity of airport showers is likely to grow, encouraging more airports to expand wellness-focused amenities in the years ahead.
