Long layover in Los Angles

[greenfrog86]

Killing time during LAX layover...(USA travel virgin)

Hi,

I've had a bit of a look at some threads on how horrible LAX can be, and am wondering what I can do with my massive layover next week...

I arrive at 07:20 on QF093 and then have an AA code share (QF3203) at 14:20 from T4. That's almost a whole day stuck in a nasty sounding airport...

I spose my question is, although I have QP and therefore access to the AC, I will need to check in my back with AA before entering the lounge won't I?

Therefore my questions are
1. What time would a US domestic check-in open?
2. If check-in is only an hour or so before the flight, what can I do given that I will have baggage to schlep around the airport
3. When should I look at going to the AC
4. Is it worth getting a locker for a few hours if I have to carry my bag around whilst waiting for check-in to open?

As I don't have any FF status, and am travelling Y it sounds like I get the joy of the long customs lines and then the long security lines as well... that should fill in a few hours of my layover :shock:

I must say that I've found a lot of useful information on here, however part of me wonders if I won't be spending the 7 hours crying in the corner somewhere after getting 'welcomed' by the lovely people at CBP...

Any suggestions/thoughts would be greatly appreciated!

 

[docjames]

Re: Killing time during LAX layover...(USA travel virgin)

Well the bag question is easy - Qantas will check your bag through. After you clear immigration and customs, there is a bag drop area where you just drop off the bags, they get re-screened and are sent off on their way so you wont have to worry about them. Qantas should be able to give you boarding passes in Australia but if not, then that'll kill some time.

You've not really got enough time to do anything worthwhile in LA in my opinion, although you could look at hiring a car and having a drive around, but probably not worth it.

I'd drop the bags, have a wander around, then chill out in the AC.

 

[greenfrog86]

Re: Killing time during LAX layover...(USA travel virgin)

Thanks - That's great to hear...

I don't mind sitting somewhere with a coffee and a book and people watching for a little while (probably more interesting in the terminal than the AC..) but never enjoy that when having to keep watch over all my luggage.

I'm one of those people who likes to have extra time up my sleeve when travelling in case something happens (but if I was to book the AA part myself, probably wouldn't have allowed 7hours) so wasn't planning on leaving the airport in LA.

I'll be sure to ask for drink vouchers at the AC... that should help the time pass

 

[docjames]

Re: Killing time during LAX layover...(USA travel virgin)

The people watching at LAX is pretty awesome (much like most of the USofA)!

Enjoy the trip. Where's the final destination?

 

[greenfrog86]

Re: Killing time during LAX layover...(USA travel virgin)

I can only imagine some of the things that can be seen at LAX...

The overall trip is

5th - 9th San Francisco (via LAX thus the massive layover)
9th - 12th Vegas
12th - 15th Miami (too bad the weather won't be better as staying on South Beach)
15th - 21st NYC! We have rented an apartment which will be fantastic for seeing the city...
21st JFK - LAX - MEL (all with QF which I understand is the best way to get back to Aus from NYC...)

Most of the internals are on AA, and from all the things I've heard some of the longer flights could be 'interesting' (read - like being a hungry, possibly tipsy sardine).

I've got a feeling I might be using my extra 10kg from QP and my 2nd piece of baggage allowance :shock:

 

[bnroz]

Re: Killing time during LAX layover...(USA travel virgin)

I can only imagine some of the things that can be seen at LAX...

The overall trip is

5th - 9th San Francisco (via LAX thus the massive layover)
9th - 12th Vegas
12th - 15th Miami (too bad the weather won't be better as staying on South Beach)
15th - 21st NYC! We have rented an apartment which will be fantastic for seeing the city...
21st JFK - LAX - MEL (all with QF which I understand is the best way to get back to Aus from NYC...)

Most of the internals are on AA, and from all the things I've heard some of the longer flights could be 'interesting' (read - like being a hungry, possibly tipsy sardine).

I've got a feeling I might be using my extra 10kg from QP and my 2nd piece of baggage allowance :shock:

Im currently planning a trip to USA next year and going to New York, been searching for weeks and contacting thru website abouts NY Vacation rental apartments.... can i ask how did you rent your apartment, any details?

Also, agree on getting QF flight from NY to home, dont have to pay for all your luggage, especially after all the shopping that you can do in the USA, we have ensured that our final destination is NYC, so that we fly home QF all the way!

 

[serfty]

There are several flights between LAX and SFO - the service desk should happily book you as standby on the 9:45 or Noon services.

(I was going to suggest a 120sc M/R to SFO and back for AUD360 )

 

[serfty]

...
Also, agree on getting QF flight from NY to home, dont have to pay for all your luggage, especially after all the shopping that you can do in the USA, we have ensured that our final destination is NYC, so that we fly home QF all the way!

If flying AA domestic connecting to a same day international flight the fees should be waived for the first 2 pieces of checked luggage.

 

[greenfrog86]

Re: Killing time during LAX layover...(USA travel virgin)

Im currently planning a trip to USA next year and going to New York, been searching for weeks and contacting thru website abouts NY Vacation rental apartments.... can i ask how did you rent your apartment, any details?

We booked the apartment through www.airbnb.com

Its a simple model - owners list on the site, you book and pay through the site, and the owner receives money whilst you are staying (or shortly after) so there is no direct money exchanged etc... It also has comments/recommendations from previous guests

Serfty - were you suggesting that I could go LAX - SFO - LAX before being back in LAX in time for my original flight...? well, I was looking for ways to make Silver by Feb... (although decided it wasn't really worth the effort given I have QP membership and don't fly that much)

Thanks for the tip about waitlisting/getting put on an earlier flight - does this work when its a codeshare (QF number)? How would this work with my checked baggage coming from MEL?

 

[serfty]

...
Serfty - were you suggesting that I could go LAX - SFO - LAX before being back in LAX in time for my original flight...? well, I was looking for ways to make Silver by Feb... (although decided it wasn't really worth the effort given I have QP membership and don't fly that much)

Only you can decide if it's worth it or not. In any case, IMHO, the routing (0945-1115, 1200-1330) is too risky.

...
Thanks for the tip about waitlisting/getting put on an earlier flight - does this work when its a codeshare (QF number)? How would this work with my checked baggage coming from MEL?

Your fare rules probably indicate this is not possible, but you never know unless you try.

It means collecting your luggage at TBIT as normal but keeping it instead of handing it back.

Take it with you to T4 and head to the check-in counters with your luggage/tickets/BP's and ask nicely what they can/will do.

At the very worst it will be simply rechecked for your originally booked flight.

 

[drewbles]

Re: Killing time during LAX layover...(USA travel virgin)

Thanks - That's great to hear...

I don't mind sitting somewhere with a coffee and a book and people watching for a little while (probably more interesting in the terminal than the AC..) but never enjoy that when having to keep watch over all my luggage.

I'm one of those people who likes to have extra time up my sleeve when travelling in case something happens (but if I was to book the AA part myself, probably wouldn't have allowed 7hours) so wasn't planning on leaving the airport in LA.

I'll be sure to ask for drink vouchers at the AC... that should help the time pass

and of course, you can request additional drink "chits" as required. Remember to tip the bar staff though, as tipping leads to good karma (and stronger drinks, which is probably more important!).

Also, the view from the T4 A/C is quite pleasant (over the apron with a variety of birds on display). That said, the "People Watching" downstairs is great (from the Mexican Grill or Chillis Too). There's not a whole lot else to do at T4, just a few basic shops. The A/C is definitely the most pleasant option (and it's a big lounge).

Enjoy your trip. I just got back from SFO and LAS. I didn't want to come back (and am indeed planning another trip for March next year)!

 

[greenfrog86]

Re: Killing time during LAX layover...(USA travel virgin)

and of course, you can request additional drink "chits" as required. Remember to tip the bar staff though, as tipping leads to good karma (and stronger drinks, which is probably more important!).

Also, the view from the T4 A/C is quite pleasant (over the apron with a variety of birds on display). That said, the "People Watching" downstairs is great (from the Mexican Grill or Chillis Too). There's not a whole lot else to do at T4, just a few basic shops. The A/C is definitely the most pleasant option (and it's a big lounge).

Enjoy your trip. I just got back from SFO and LAS. I didn't want to come back (and am indeed planning another trip for March next year)!

I daresay that I will need to eat when I arrive (given my dislike of airline food, especially breakfasts), so will get a chance for some people watching then...might be a little early for Mexican Grill though :shock:

Any tips for Vegas? I think that will be the 'outragious' chapter of our trip...

I'm going to have to keep my eye on tipping - I've never been anywhere that 'expects' tipping, and am a little scared I'll either be too generous or way to stingey... I don't want to end up 'paying' for my free drinks in the AC by tipping too much! oh well, I suppose you live and learn

Thanks for all the tips and info people

 

[docjames]

Re: Killing time during LAX layover...(USA travel virgin)

I usually go $1/drink in the AC. Others may differ.....

 

[drewbles]

Re: Killing time during LAX layover...(USA travel virgin)

I usually go $1/drink in the AC. Others may differ.....

$1/drink is par for the course in the a/c. In vegas, if you're planning on a steady stream of drinks (if gambling in the casinos) it's best to tip $2-5 for the *first* drink, then $1/drink from then on. It ensures the waitresses are coming around every 5-10 minutes (works a treat and they ensure you're well watered).

Vegas may be outrageous but may not be it's what you make of it Where abouts are you staying, and what did you plan on doing? If you want to see any shows there, don't book them online. Go to tix4less (There's 5-6 of them around, although I used the one next to the Coke Store/M&M world next to the MGM Grand). Some good savings to be had there. Don't forget everything in the US is shown ex-tax, so having the 'item' price at hand is no use. NV sales tax is 8.1%. SFO also like to slug a 'TAS'. Tourist Assessment Fee. They slug that on most tourism related items. There's no escaping it unfortunately.

Tipping, as a rule, is generally mandatory for most things. For restaurants, 15% is pretty much a baseline, with 20% or more for exceptional service/fine dining. Porters you're paying $1/bag for luggage. There is no need to tip in fast food places. 15% or so for taxis is usual too. Also, you may want to leave $2-3 a day for hotel maids. They make *very* low wages. If you tip them, they tend to do a better job as well i've found (few extra towels/chocolates at night/full refills of the toiletries etc). Whilst most hotels have cough shampoo/conditioner, the ones that have decent ones (ie good quality and good size for travel), the $2-3 a day ensures a full re-supply which is great for stocking up

Tipping is probably the most annoying thing in the USA. You get used to it pretty quickly though. Beware of some places if you're eating in a group of 4 or more you will often see in small print on the 'check' "an 18% service/gratuity has been added to your bill'. If that is the case, there is no need to tip again. They often sneak it in, and people do sometimes pay double. The thought was that 'groups' of people were going to stiff the wait staff, so they threw it in by default. Often, it does offer the opportunity to remove it, but it's usually just easier to leave it on there.

Oh, and everything else in Vegas, look around for. There's a lot of savings to be had (especially mid-week on rooms and other things). You won't get bored, even if you don't gamble.

 

[chrissimon]

Re: Killing time during LAX layover...(USA travel virgin)

LAX T4 without QC Access is boring! I did the MEL-LAX-SFO flight in September and our flight to SFO was delayed by 1.5 hours due to weather. Sitting around in LAX in T4 wasn't that fun. Was starving after the flight too and being still so early they had the horrible breakfast menu at Burger King!

With plenty of time and depends how fast you can walk, could always go to in-n-out burger by the airport, nice spotting and cheap food! Bit of a walk though, I did it on my way back home since I had an evening flight out of LAX.
LAX-SFO-SYD-MEL

 

[themaiz]

Re: Killing time during LAX layover...(USA travel virgin)

I don't mind sitting somewhere with a coffee and a book and people watching for a little while (probably more interesting in the terminal than the AC..) but never enjoy that when having to keep watch over all my luggage.

The terminal 4 AC is definitely good value. Hint: have a change of clothes (shirt/sox/undies) in your carryon on the SYD/LAX flight, and then have a shower in the T4 AC after you go through all the formalities. Probably the best single benefit to being in the AC. If you don't feel like fighting with the restaurants in the terminal, the the bar menu in the AC is just fine.

BTW, carrying a change of clothes is good juju. Luggage doesn't get lost often, but it's not impossible for something to go wrong.

The 108 JFK/LAX/SYD flight is very civilised (nice BA lounge at JFK), and you generally get enough time in the LA lounge (TBIT) to have a quick shower there ahead of the long haul.

Tip for Vegas - enjoy the free stuff: animatronics at Caesars Palace, the pirate show at Treasure Island, the medieval thing at Excalibur, just standing anywhere inside the Luxor, wandering through the Venetian and Paris, and the water displays at Bellagio. Also the outlet mall and a rather good Fry's electronics. OK, that might not turn out to be so free.

 

[NM]

Re: Killing time during LAX layover...(USA travel virgin)

I don't mind sitting somewhere with a coffee ...

now there is a problem. There is no such thing as coffee at LAX, just the mud stuff they call Starbucks :evil:

 

[greenfrog86]

Re: Killing time during LAX layover...(USA travel virgin)

now there is a problem. There is no such thing as coffee at LAX, just the mud stuff they call Starbucks :evil:

Oh, i've already resigned myself to expecting awful coffee everywhere - to my mind Starbucks is 100 times better than some coffee options where it is a pot that is contantly kept warm...

Although I've never had direct experience with American 'coffee', I did meet a couple of American guys at a backpackers in Italy where I was telling them I found a great little cafe with fantastic pastries etc. Their question was 'did you get free refills?' Hmmm, last time I checked you dont get refills with espresso coffee...

I think the combination of travelling with my English best friend, and the American idea of 'coffee' I'll be getting used to drinking tea when available...

To swing it back to the original topic, I would say that paying $4 for a spot to sit and watch people while reading a book is worth it. Yes I can go into the AC, however I think there is only so many hours one can stay in an enclosed space like that:shock:

 

[NM]

Re: Killing time during LAX layover...(USA travel virgin)

I think the combination of travelling with my English best friend, and the American idea of 'coffee' I'll be getting used to drinking tea when available...

Hmm, be careful if you order "tea" in many parts of the USA. You will handed a glass full of ice with sweetened cold tea poured over the top. You have to be specific if you want "hot tea" and in some parts they look at you strangely when you ask for it.

 

[trippin_the_rift]

Re: Killing time during LAX layover...(USA travel virgin)

I had a 15 hour layover in LAX a few years ago (QF arrive 6am, departed to MIA on red eye).

Bags checked through, went to FLounge had a shower, left carry on with the staff behind the desk (normal lounge staff wont do this for you) and went to venice beach for the day.

Had some fun, but for 6 hours - I'd lap up teh drinks and interweb in the lounge.