American tourist sparks debate for sleeping on airport floor rather than paying for hotel

A 29-year-old traveler has sparked debate on social media after revealing that she spent the night sleeping on the floor of San Francisco International Airport in the U.S. rather than paying for a hotel.

Santeon Brown, who lives in Los Angeles, decided to take a spontaneous trip to San Francisco after finding a one-way flight for just US$20. After arriving in the evening, she opted to stay at the airport overnight to save money on accommodation, New York Post reported.

In a TikTok video posted on Oc.15, Brown shared her experience, describing the decision as the "right choice" and saying she enjoyed the unusual overnight stay.

Brown explained that she saw little reason to spend money on a hotel room when she would only be sleeping for a few hours. She also preferred staying inside the airport instead of exploring an unfamiliar city late at night, according to American weekly newspaper People.

The traveler said she felt safer staying beyond the airport’s security checkpoint, where passengers had already undergone screening. She described the overnight experience as "interesting, relaxing and unusual."

Her video drew differing opinions from social media users.

Some questioned whether sleeping on a hard airport floor was worth the savings, raising concerns about discomfort, back pain and hygiene.

Others, however, defended her choice, saying it was a practical option for budget-conscious travelers and sharing similar experiences of their own.

Brown added that she was no stranger to sleeping outdoors, having gained experience through camping. She had also spent nights at airports on previous occasions, sometimes alone and sometimes with friends.

Although staying at the airport meant going without access to a shower, Brown said she maintained her usual hygiene routine as best she could. She brushed her teeth, washed her face and used wet wipes in the public restrooms each morning.

Reflecting on the experience, Brown encouraged travelers considering a similar arrangement to pack light while bringing a few essential items to make the night more comfortable.

Last year, a couple was criticized for sleeping at Singapore's Changi Airport rather than paying US$400 for a night in a hotel room.