Napcabs: your private mini-lounge in the middle of the airport?

Fancy your own private lounge in the middle of the airport? Try a Napcab!

Developed by students at Munich's TUM university of science and technology, in cooperation with Munich Airport -- where the first Napcabs have already sprung up -- the concept is a compact self-contained cabin fitted with a bed (200cm long by 80cm wide), workdesk, TV screen and even its own wifi hotspot.

Each 'personal cabin' can serve as quiet and comfortable nook for working while you wait for your flight, or a mini-hotel room to catch up on some sleep during a stopover.

Each Napcab costs €15 (A$18) per hour from 6am to 10am, or €10 during the off-peak period between 10pm and 6am. There's a minimum charge of €30. Just swipe your credit card to pay in advance and unlock the door.

The Napcabs are best described as 'cosy', but efficient design makes the most of the space. 

Lighting, temperature and an alarm clock are controlled by a touchscreen that also plays video.

Grab a quick power nap, catch up on private phone calls, change your travel clothes, plug in your MP3 player or just shut yourself away from the busy airport.

What's your take? Could you imagine using a Napcab during an airport stopover?

John Walton

Aviation journalist and travel columnist John took his first long-haul flight when he was eight weeks old and hasn't looked back since. Well, except when facing rearwards in business class.