Miami International Airport (MIA) is now offering private sleep pods from Wait N’ Rest, providing travelers with a dedicated space to rest, work, or shower directly within the terminal. This marks the first U.S. location for the company, which already operates in Bogota and is expanding to Toronto.
New Facilities and Amenities
Two Wait N’ Rest facilities are planned for MIA. The first, located in Concourse D near gate D15, is now open and features 45 individual units. A second location with 25 units is slated to open in Concourse H in the coming months. Each pod offers several amenities, including:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Climate control
- Charging stations
- Soundproofing
- Workspace
- TV streaming
- Access to private showers and fresh towels
The pods accommodate one to four guests, with dual-occupancy rooms currently available for booking.
Pricing and Availability
Wait N’ Rest operates on an hourly rate: $40 per hour with a minimum booking of four hours. An eight-hour stay is discounted to $200, effectively paying for five hours of use (a 37% reduction). While the Bogota location is part of the Priority Pass network, the Miami facility is not currently included.
Airport Revenue and Expansion
Miami-Dade County has a five-year contract with Wait N’ Rest, renewable for another five years. The county expects to generate $10 million in revenue over the full term, taking a 25% cut of the company’s earnings – approximately $4 million per year.
Comparison to Other Options
While several U.S. airports offer Minute Suites (simple daybeds in private offices), Wait N’ Rest provides more comprehensive facilities, including showers. Miami Airport also has an outdated landside hotel, but a new Westin hotel is planned for 2027. The sleep pods fill a niche for travelers needing short-term rest, but at a higher cost compared to traditional hotels.
The Trade-Off Between Convenience and Cost
The pods are convenient for those with long layovers or unexpected delays, but the minimum four-hour stay costs $160. This price point is comparable to an overnight stay at many airport hotels, making cost a key consideration for travelers. The question remains whether the convenience justifies the premium.
Conclusion:
The opening of Wait N’ Rest at Miami Airport offers a novel solution for travelers seeking in-terminal rest. However, its success depends on whether passengers will pay a premium for the convenience, or opt for more affordable alternatives like traditional hotels.
