Sleeping inside or in nearby hotels (CLT)

Overnight layover guide. Sleeping facilities in the public zone or boarding area

Charlotte Airport remains open 24 hours a day. If you have an overnight connection and are already inside the secure area, you are generally allowed to stay there. However, if you arrive from the city or need to exit to claim baggage, be aware that security checkpoints typically close between approximately 11:00 pm and 4:00 am, meaning you will have to wait in the public area until they reopen.

Temperature and Noise: Air conditioning is often very strong, so bringing warm clothing or a blanket is essential. In addition, lighting is bright and cleaning crews operate noisy equipment throughout the night; earplugs and an eye mask are recommended.

Where to rest

Finding a comfortable place to lie down and sleep is challenging, as most seats have fixed armrests.

• Rocking Chairs: The iconic white wooden rocking chairs located in the Atrium (public and airside areas) and throughout the concourses are relaxing for sitting, but not suitable for sleeping since they are rigid and upright.
• Secure Area (Airside): According to recent reviews, the most comfortable seating (padded and with charging ports) is located near gates C12 to C14. Some passengers also report finding quieter corners in Concourse E, although walking distances are long.
• Public Area (Landside): If you are outside security, options are limited. Many passengers choose to sleep on the floor in less-trafficked corners of the Baggage Claim level (especially under the escalators in Zones B and C) or in the Atrium.
• Emergency Cots: The airport only provides cots during extreme situations involving mass flight cancellations due to weather, not for regular overnight stays.

Accommodations and Cabins:

• Minute Suites: Private suites with a sofa bed, ideal for naps. Available 24 hours a day in the Atrium and the D/E Connector. Hourly rate (approximately USD65.00) or complimentary access (1 hour) with Priority Pass.
• Nearby Hotels: If you prefer a real bed, there are multiple nearby hotels offering complimentary shuttle service.

Overnight Services

• Baggage: There is no luggage storage service. You must keep your bags with you at all times.
• Food and Drink: The vast majority of restaurants close overnight. However, vending machines and self-service markets (such as the one near gate C17) operate 24 hours a day.
• Restrooms and Showers: There are no free public showers; the only available showers are located inside the Minute Suites (for an additional fee of around USD30.00). Standard restrooms remain open all night.
• Wi-Fi: Free and unlimited.
• Other: The Chapel and Nursing Rooms remain open and are often quieter spaces.

Hotels

If you need to rest inside the terminal for a short period, Minute Suites (located in the Atrium and the D/E Connector) offer private suites by the hour. For overnight stays, there is a wide range of hotels in the immediate vicinity of the airport (Wilkins Drive and Little Rock Rd area), connected via complimentary shuttle services.

Nearby Hotels

Most of the following accommodations are located within a 3 km (5–10 minute drive) radius, and their courtesy shuttles pick up passengers at the designated area on the Arrivals Level:

• Home2 Suites by Hilton Charlotte Airport: Ideal for families or extended stays, offering spacious suites with fully equipped kitchens and complimentary hot breakfast.
• Hampton Inn & Suites Charlotte-Airport: A reliable option known for its included complimentary breakfast, fast Wi-Fi, and outdoor pool.
• Courtyard Charlotte Airport North: Designed for business travelers, featuring “The Bistro” restaurant (serving Starbucks coffee), ergonomic workspaces, and a fitness center.
• Holiday Inn Charlotte Airport: A full-service hotel with an on-site restaurant and bar (“The Hub”), and free lodging and meals for children under certain conditions.
• Hilton Garden Inn Charlotte Airport: Offers a modern atmosphere with an à la carte restaurant for breakfast and dinner, as well as late-night room service.