When traveling, you never know if a sudden or random weather pattern might emerge, or if your airplane needs some last minute repairs, causing your flight to be delayed or cancelled. In any case, when traveling by plane, there is a chance you could end up being forced to sleep in an airport.

I know, because I’ve had to do it before. It was just my friend and I coming back from Florida, when we had a layaway in New Jersey and ended up hitting a major snowstorm and got stuck in the airport. Sometimes there is nothing you can do about it, and are forced to deal with the situation.

Here are some tips to help you deal:

• Be prepared with some necessities: snacks, water, airline pillow, blanket, headphones, book, and possibly a cheap inflatible pool raft (to sleep more comfortably)
• Find a good spot to plant yourself for the night. Stay away from very crowded areas, dark spots, and dirty areas near the trash. You want to find somewhere relatively quiet and clean with minimal people.
• Arrival lounges are usually more comfortable than departure lounges
• Bring something to entertain yourself in case you can’t sleep
• Dress in layers and comfortable clothing. This way you will be prepared for any temperature changes, or if they decide to kick you out on the curb.
• If anyone approaches you looking for money, either try and ignore them or be very polite and innocent when telling them sorry. Or, in case they have a weapon, which is not very likely in an airport, cough up some spare change.