Gate-area grab-and-go at Relay in Barbara Jordan Terminal
Relay sits post-security in AUS’s Barbara Jordan Terminal and runs from early morning through evening, covering most departure banks. Think standard airport newsstand: drinks, snacks, travel pillows, chargers, and a wall of magazines and paperbacks. Prices run airport-high but not outrageous; expect $3–$4 for bottled water and $2–$5 for snack packs. It’s the quick stop when you realize you forgot gum or a phone cable before a 7:00 a.m. flight.
This is a pure utility stop, not a sit-down spot, and most visits take under 5 minutes unless a big bank of flights just dumped a crowd. Relay typically stocks national titles plus some Texas-focused souvenirs, including Austin-branded mugs and keychains under $15. You’ll also see basic over-the-counter meds, travel-sized toiletries under 3.4 oz, and simple tech like Lightning cables and power banks that run in the $25–$40 range.
Food is mostly packaged: chips, candy, nuts, protein bars, and a small cooler of drinks with soda, juice, and energy drinks. Beer is usually available in single cans around $7–$9, varying by brand. If you want real food, hit a proper restaurant in Barbara Jordan first and use Relay as backup for plane snacks only. Receipts print fast and contactless payment works, which helps when boarding starts in 10 minutes.
Practical tip: grab water and snacks here, but buy any pricier electronics (like $50+ headphones) in town; choices are limited and returns after a flight are a hassle.