Long-haul flights don’t have to be boring! Wondering what to do on a long flight?
Whether you’re soaring towards your dream destination or heading back home, make those hours in the sky count.
Here’s your ultimate guide to banishing boredom at 35,000 feet!
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What to do on a Long Flight: 35+ Creative Ways to Pass the Time
Discover our complete list of 35 things to do on a long flight and turn your journey into an adventure you’ll actually enjoy!
1. Things to do on Flights (Any Direction):
- Transform your flight into a personal movie theater – load up your device with that pre-downloaded series or movies you’ve been dying to binge!
- Let music transform your journey – create the perfect flight soundtrack or dive into those podcasts you never have time for (make sure they are pre-downloaded)
- Get lost in a good book – whether it’s that gripping thriller or your favorite magazine, nothing beats a great read in the sky
- Level up your game – challenge yourself with new offline mobile games and beat your high scores
- Connect with the world (when wifi’s available) – catch up on life or share your adventure
- Make a new friend – sometimes your seatmate has amazing stories to share!
- Find peace with your Bible – perfect quiet time for reflection and spiritual growth
- Journal with God – use this distraction-free time for deeper connection
- Pour your heart into your journal – capture your thoughts and dreams mid-flight
- Watch the flight tracker/map – track your journey and learn about the places you’re flying over
- Draw or sketch – bring a small notepad and pen for creative expression
- Color in an adult coloring book – a relaxing way to pass time and reduce travel anxiety
- Do puzzles (Sudoku, crosswords, word searches) – keep your mind active with brain teasers
- Get lots of sleep – a good sleep mask and neck pillow are your best friends
- Practice simple seat exercises and stretches – stay comfortable and maintain circulation
- Take short walks when permitted – important for your health on longer flights
- Give your phone a makeover – clean up your digital space and organize your apps
- Delete and organize photos for storage – free up space for new travel memories
- Work or study – Use the distraction-free time to focus on important tasks
- Organize your wallet and travel documents – declutter and arrange for easy access throughout your trip
2. Things to do on Flights (Heading to Destination):
- Plan your holiday itinerary in detail – review your pre-downloaded maps and information
- Learn basic phrases of your destination’s language – practice common greetings and essential phrases
- Read novels set in your destination – Immerse yourself in the culture through literature
- Start a travel journal to record your trip – begin with your expectations and excitement
- Watch pre-downloaded movies/shows set in your destination – get inspired and familiar with your destination’s culture
3. Best Things to do on Flights (Heading Home):
- Write about your trip experiences – record your memories while they’re fresh
- Write about all the things you are grateful for about your trip – reflect on your blessings and highlights
- Write a blog post or social media updates to post later – draft your travel stories to share
- Create a travel bucket list for future trips – channel your travel inspiration into future plans
- Organize and caption your trip photos/videos – sort through memories while they’re fresh in your mind
Additional Pre-Flight Success Tips
- Charge all devices fully – don’t forget to bring fully charged devices
- Bring a portable charger/power bank – essential for longer flights
- Download all necessary content – movies, shows, books, and games
- Pack essentials in easily accessible carry-on – keep important items within reach
- Bring earphones, snacks, medication – the essentials for a comfortable journey
Final Thoughts on Fun Things to Do on a Long Flight
Now you know how to survive a long haul flight in style – but don’t forget to pack smart!
Check out these guides to level up your in-flight comfort:
- Discover the ultimate packing list: Best Travel Accessories for Long Flights
- Keep circulation flowing: Best Compression Socks for Flights
- Stay cozy in the clouds: The Best Travel Blanket for Planes
- Don’t be that passenger: Things Never to do On a Flight
