Long flights can feel endless, but with the right approach, they don’t have to be boring. Whether you want to stay productive or relax, these 10 tips will help you make the most of your time in the air.
Catch Some Sleep: How to Sleep Comfortably on a Long Flight
If you can sleep on a plane props to you because I can never do it. I know that you can take sleeping medicine, but I somehow always find something else to do anyways. However sleeping on a long flight is especially great if your landing destination is going to have a large time difference. If you plan on sleeping bring a neck pillow or have a jacket or large scarf to lean on. If you do plan on sleeping the window seats are the best not only because you have something to lean on but you are least likely to be bothered since no one will need to ask you to get up.
Get Lost in a Story: Why Reading is Perfect for Flights
Reading a book is a great airplane activity because people often do not make time to read. If you have one that you have wanting to read bring it. Or if you just feel like reading something new, most airports have books in the terminal shops. Or if you are traveling light bring your kindle or e-reader so you can have multiple books without carrying the weight of the actual books.
Binge-Watch Bliss: Enjoy Movies and TV Shows on Your Flight
Another activity that is sometimes hard to make time for, is watching a new film or catch up on a TV series. Some airlines have advanced releases on films before they make it to streaming or at least before they are free on streaming. I have taken advantage of that many of times. Or if you think that you’re plane may not have a TV or you just have specific film/show that you want to watch many streaming services allow you to download films or episodes.
Stay Productive in the Clouds: Working on a Long Flight
While not ideal, it can be a time to work whether it is for your actual job or for your passion project. A long flight allows for several hours of uninterrupted focus. Sometimes distractions at home or even in an office can make it hard to complete certain tasks. Many airplanes now also have wi-fi now that you can use.
Document Your Journey: Journaling Ideas for Long Flights
I love journaling and when you are traveling especially on the way back from a trip, it is a great time to reflect on your travels. Write about all your travel stories, experiences and anything else that you don’t want to forget. Or if it is on your way to a destination you can have some journal prompt ideas to write about. There are some specific travel journals what allow you to document the details of your trips.
Tune Out the World: Relax with Music on Your Flight
If you are not able to sleep, but you still want to relax bring your headphones and your favorite playlist. Pro-tip, if you have Spotify you can download songs from a playlist and then if there is not wi-fi on the plane you can still listen to music.
Get Creative: Coloring and Drawing Ideas for Flights
If you are into coloring or drawing bring a book and some colored pencils and color away. It can be a relaxing way to take up some time while on a long flight. If you don’t want the hassle of bringing a book and a bunch of coloring utensils then you can opt for the digital version if you have an iPad and an iPad pen. There are a few apps, but my personal favorite is Procreate which not only is there endless drawing capabilities, but you can also upload coloring pages to the app and have all the colors in the world at your fingertips.
Challenge Your Brain: Crossword and Card Games for the Flight
A long flight is the perfect time to challenge your brain with a crossword puzzle, Sudoku, or word search. You can bring a small puzzle book or even download some apps to keep things simple. If you’re traveling with someone, a deck of cards can be a lifesaver. Classic games like Blackjack, Rummy, or even make up your own game to pass the time. If you’re flying solo, games like Solitaire or digital card games are great options too.
Learn Something New: Take a Course or Listen to a Podcast
Download your favorite podcast, audiobook or even an online course before your flight. Use this downtime on the flight to learn something new or explore a topic you’re passionate about. There may even be a course that you can earn a certificate with. Or if you are traveling to a foreign country you could bring a language book and study the language of the country you are visiting.
Indulge Your Inner Foodie: Snacks and Treats for a Long Flight
Always bring your favorite snacks on long flights. While you will likely have snacks and in-flight meals if you are flying international, sometimes those are not the best. I am a candy person and always like to bring my favorite candy to snack on. But you can bring savory, sweet or whatever treat that you enjoy.
There are so many ways you can spend your time on a long flight to make the hours fly by. Whether you choose to relax, get creative, or stay productive, the key is to find activities that suit your mood and make the journey enjoyable. Next time you’re packing for a trip, take a little extra time to plan for your in-flight entertainment—it’ll make all the difference when you’re thousands of feet in the air. Safe travels!