Long haul flights are always challenging. Your back will ache from sitting in the same spot for hours, your neck will hurt, and you’ll be bored out of your mind. Even with in-flight offerings, you can look at the same movie for the third time. How can one cope on these never-ending flights?
Here’s how to make your journey still enjoyable.
Listen to a Podcast
Podcasts are great because you can pick one that interests you, and no matter how many times you’ve heard it, the stories will still captivate. It does not matter what kind of genre you enjoy. There is certainly something out there for everyone. If you want to maximize your pod-listening pleasure, use a pair of noise-canceling headphones to enjoy your podcast without any outside interference.
Organize Photos
Instead of endlessly scrolling through your phone, try organizing all the photos you have taken throughout your journey. Sort them into folders or albums, and rearrange them so that they make sense to you. You can label the folders for ease of access in the future.
Create a Travel Journal
You can also use this time to start a travel journal. Looking back at all your memories will help make the flight enjoyable and give you something to look forward to when you land.
If you’re flying on empty leg flights, journaling can make the most of this unique travel experience by helping you document spontaneous adventures. Reflecting on your journey not only preserves memories but also offers a creative outlet during your downtime.
Do Some Reading
Reading is always a great way to pass the time on a plane. Whether it’s a book, magazine, or newspaper – reading can help to keep you entertained and still inform you of current events. You can also bring a Kindle or e-reader to store multiple books at once. This way, you can take up a little space in your carry-on.
Start a Crossword Puzzle
Crosswords are always great for long flights since they offer the perfect combination of challenge and entertainment. If you prefer something else to the traditional puzzles, there are plenty of online versions you can access on your phone or laptop.
Start a Crochet Project
These days, more people are turning to handiwork to pass the time on long flights. Crochet is an especially great hobby, requiring minimal space and supplies. Just bring a hook and some yarn, and you are ready to create something beautiful!
Catch Up on Some Zzzzz
Experts say there is no such thing as paying your sleep debt. However, your body needs it, and if you’ve been craving more sleep, now is the perfect opportunity to get some much-needed rest. Bring an inflatable pillow, eye mask, and earplugs to ensure a comfortable sleep.
Take Photos of the Clouds
One of the coolest things about flying is looking out the window and seeing endless patches of white clouds stretching across the sky. Use this time to snap some amazing shots. You can even use your phone’s panoramic features for a stunning landscape photo! These will serve as a beautiful reminder of your journey and can be used for a photo album or wall prints.
Try To Learn a New Language
Learning a language is an incredibly rewarding experience and can help pass the time quickly. Even if you only focus on a few key phrases, it’s still beneficial for your future travels. Plenty of language-learning apps can help you out – like Duolingo and Memrise – that you can use to learn on the go.
Find Someone to Talk To
The best way to pass the time on a plane is by talking to the person beside you. Ask them about their story and learn something new if they are open and friendly. Who knows, you might gain a new friend while flying!
Say Yes To Seated Yoga
Airplane yoga is a great way to reduce stress and improve your mental well-being. And if you are looking for a way to pass the time on a plane, it’s a great option. You don’t need much space or any special equipment – just sit in your seat and perform simple stretches to keep your body relaxed and reduce jet lag.
Update Your To-do List
On a flight for an important business meeting? Or are you traveling for pleasure? Take time to take a step back and reflect on the things you have accomplished so far. Then, use the extra time to plan what needs to be done next. That way, you can stay productive even in the air!
Listen To Music
Music is always a great way to pass the time on a plane when all else fails. Whether you’re into hip-hop, jazz, classical, or anything in between, bring your headphones and favorite tunes. That way, you can transform a long flight into an enjoyable adventure!
Get Some Work Done
If you’re a workaholic, use your flight time to get a head start on upcoming projects or tackle some of the tasks that have been piling up. Bring a laptop, tablet, or notebook, and work on staying productive and efficient in the air.
Find a New App
Plenty of apps are available these days, so why not try something new? Find an app that interests you and download it on your phone or tablet. It might be a game, an educational tool, or anything else that helps you to pass the time and make your journey more enjoyable.
Enjoy a Few Drinks
Long flights can be exhausting, so why not treat yourself to a few tasty drinks? Most planes have a wide selection of beverages that you can enjoy in the air. So, ask for a glass of wine or beer and enjoy the flight! Just make sure to hydrate in between and always drink responsibly.
Write a Blog Entry
Ever wanted to be a writer? A plane ride is the perfect time to put your thoughts on paper and practice your craft. Take a pen and paper, or use your laptop to write a blog entry or short story. It’s a great way to keep your mind sharp and practice writing skills while you are in the air.
Surf The Net
Do you have WiFi on your flight? Then use it to browse the web. Check out some interesting websites, catch up with friends on social media, or watch videos. There’s plenty of fun to be had online – and it can help to pass the time quickly on those long journeys.
Start Coloring
Adult coloring is a great way to reduce stress and take your mind off things. Take out some pencils or markers and start drawing intricate shapes and patterns. Keep yourself occupied and stay creative while flying.
Play With Your Kids
If you are traveling with kids, take out some toys and start playing. You can play games, read books, or do crafts with them to keep them occupied during the flight. This is a great way to pass the time and entertain your kids.
Start Editing Your Videos
If you are a frequent traveler, take out your camera. Edit some of the footage you captured during your journey. You can use a free online video editor tool. This will help you create memorable videos that you can share with friends and family or even use for your vlogs.
Meditate
A long flight can be a great opportunity to practice meditation. Spend some time focusing on your breathing and clear your mind. Meditating can help you relax and refresh, while waiting until you get to your destination.
Practice Your Foreign Language
If you’ve been learning a foreign language, use the quiet time in the air to practice. You’re lucky if there is someone on the plane who speaks the language, so you can practice with them too! Take out your dictionary or phrasebook and try remembering some of the words and phrases you’ve learned.
Book Your Next Trip
If you love to travel, use the time in the air to plan your next adventure. Look up destinations that interest you and book your flights, accommodations, and activities for your next trip. This allows you to continue planning something amazing on your way to your destination.
Go Duty-free Shopping
Take advantage of the duty-free shopping opportunities on board and pick up some souvenirs or gifts for your friends and family. This is a great way to make the most of your time in the air and find unique items for yourself or gift others.
Pamper Yourself
Long flights can be exhausting, so why not pamper yourself a bit? Wear hydrating face masks or essential oils to relax your body and mind. Take out an eye mask and nap, or put on some comfy clothes and make yourself comfortable to enjoy the flight.
Learn A New Skill Online
Why not use your time in the air to pick up a new skill? Take out your phone or laptop and find a course that interests you, then start learning something new! With all the online courses available, you can learn almost anything these days.
Catch Up With Your Loved Ones
If you have WiFi, use it to catch up with your friends and family. Give them a call, chat, or email them to stay connected and share your adventures with them. You can even send photos or videos of your trip if you have time!
Share Your Travel Tips
If you are an experienced traveler, write down some tips and tricks for others who may be flying soon. Not only will this help them prepare for their trip, but it will also be a great way to remember your own advice when flying in the future.
Let Your Imagination Run Wild
A long flight is a perfect time to let your imagination run wild. Close your eyes, practice deep breathing, and start dreaming about all the amazing places you could visit in the future. This way, you can relax and recharge, and it can help to spark some ideas for your next big adventure.
Final Thoughts
Flying doesn’t have to be a mundane experience. With the right attitude and some creative activities, you get to make the most out of your time in the air. Whether you’re looking for ways to stay entertained, productive or relaxed, plenty of activities can help you enjoy your flight. So, think of these ideas next time you’re flying and have some fun!
