Surviving Long Flights: Fun and Creative Ways to Stay Entertained
Long flights can be both an exciting and (unfortunately) a daunting part of travelling. While the prospect of reaching your destination can make the journey worthwhile, sitting for hours on end with little to do can become monotonous and uncomfortable. The good news is that with a bit of planning, you can turn your long flight into a more enjoyable experience. Here are some fun and creative ways to stay entertained and make the most of your time in the air.
Read Books, Audiobooks, or Podcasts
Reading is a timeless way to pass the time, and long flights are the perfect opportunity to get lost in a good book. Plus, reading is known to be a healthy hobby. Whether you bring a physical book or an e-reader, you can dive into a novel, biography, or self-help book that keeps your mind engaged. Many people choose this time to read books they’ve been meaning to get around to but haven’t had the chance to start.
If you’re not in the mood for a traditional book, audiobooks are a great alternative. You can listen to a captivating story while relaxing in your seat, with the bonus of not having to worry about holding a book for hours. Audiobooks are available on platforms such as Audible, BookBeat or even through your local library’s digital lending service. Whether it’s a thrilling crime novel, a motivational speaker, or a fascinating historical account, audiobooks can make your journey feel much shorter.
Watch Movies or TV Shows
Most long-haul flights offer in-flight entertainment, usually in the form of movies and TV shows. Depending on the airline, you may have access to a wide range of films, from the latest blockbusters to timeless classics. Many flights also offer TV series across different genres, including drama, comedy, and documentaries, allowing you to binge-watch your favourite shows or discover new ones.
If you prefer a more tailored experience, consider downloading movies or episodes of your favourite TV shows before the flight. Streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or Disney+ allow you to save content for offline viewing, meaning you don’t need an internet connection to watch. Just make sure to download your selection ahead of time to avoid any last-minute scrambling.
Additionally, some passengers enjoy bringing their own entertainment in the form of DVDs or Blu-rays, especially if the in-flight options are limited. A portable DVD player or laptop can provide an excellent viewing experience for those who want to escape into a good movie or revisit old favourites.
Play Games on Your Device
One of the most popular ways to pass the time during long flights is to play games on your device. Whether you have a tablet, smartphone, or portable gaming console, there are endless options to keep you entertained. From video games to casual puzzles, gaming can provide a fun distraction that helps the hours fly by.
For those who enjoy a more immersive experience, consider downloading your favourite video games before the flight. Games like The Legend of Zelda, Minecraft, or Fortnite can provide hours of entertainment. These games often allow you to get lost in expansive worlds, giving you a perfect escape from the confines of the plane.
If the thrill of checking out online casinos is more your thing, many players opt for no verification casinos, which offer the added benefit of a more discreet and hassle-free experience, as they don’t require providing extensive personal information. This is ideal for those who value their privacy and want to enjoy the games without the need for lengthy verification processes.
If you prefer something lighter, there are plenty of casual games that don’t require as much focus or energy. Puzzle games such as Candy Crush, Tetris, or Bejeweled are simple yet highly addictive. These games are easy to play in short bursts, making them ideal for a flight where you may want to take breaks in between.
Learn Something New
Long flights are a great opportunity to learn something new or work on personal development. Many passengers use this time to learn a new language, whether it’s for a trip to a foreign country or just as a hobby. Apps like Memrise, Duolingo, and Babbel provide engaging, interactive language lessons that are easy to access on your device. These apps break down lessons into bite-sized chunks, so you can make progress without feeling overwhelmed.
If learning a new language isn’t your thing, consider diving into an online course. Options such as Coursera, Udemy, and Skillshare offer a wide variety of courses on everything from photography and marketing to mindfulness and cooking. You can download lessons ahead of time and use the flight as an opportunity to expand your knowledge.
Chat with Fellow Passengers or Make New Friends
If you’re feeling sociable, long flights provide a great opportunity to chat with fellow passengers and make new friends. While it’s easy to bury yourself in your device or book, sometimes striking up a conversation with your seatmate can lead to interesting and unexpected experiences. You never know—you might meet someone from a completely different background or someone who shares your interests.
Many passengers also enjoy conversing with the flight attendants, who are usually happy to share stories or recommend things to do when you arrive at your destination. However, if you’re looking for something more interactive, consider joining the in-flight community if the airline provides a social aspect, such as group chats or shared playlists.
Meditate or Practice Mindfulness
For those who prefer a calmer way to spend their time, practising mindfulness or meditation can be a great way to relax and stay centred during a long flight. Long flights can sometimes be stressful, especially with tight spaces and long hours of sitting. Meditation apps like Calm or Headspace offer guided sessions designed to help you relax, sleep, or relieve stress. These apps can be easily downloaded to your device, providing soothing exercises that help calm your mind and body during the journey.
Mindfulness exercises can also help you become more present in the moment, allowing you to enjoy your flight more fully, whether it’s through focusing on your breathing or simply observing the world around you.
Surviving long flights doesn’t have to be a tedious task. With a bit of preparation, you can make your journey enjoyable and even productive. Whether you’re playing games, watching movies, reading, listening to an audiobook, learning something new, or engaging in mindfulness, there are countless ways to stay entertained.