Fly Like a Pro: 25 Best Things To Do On A Plane 🛩️
Wondering what to do on a plane to pass the time? We’ve got you covered!
The thrill of takeoff can soon wear off if you’ve not planned how to spend those long hours hurtling through the sky, but there are plenty of things to do on a plane to keep you busy!
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From binge-watching your favourite TV show to meditating like a zen master, I’m sharing 25 entertaining, anxiety-reducing, fun activities to help you pass the time on your next flight.
So sit back, relax (as much as you can), and let’s dive into some of the best things to do on a plane to help the hours pass quickly.
25 Best Things To Do On A Plane to Pass Time
1. Read a Great Book
Immersing yourself in a good book is a great way to pass the time. Whether you prefer physical books or the convenience of an e-book, reading is one of the best things to do on a plane.
Firstly, reading is a great way to escape reality for a while. Whether you’re flying to an important business meeting or on vacation with your family, why not switch off and get lost in a good story?
Read also: 13 Inspiring Books To Read on a Plane
Secondly, reading is also surprisingly calming. The white noise of the airplane engines combined with the gentle rocking motion can lull you into a state of relaxation that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s like having your own personal therapy session at 30,000 feet!
Worried about space in your carry-on?
Don’t fret! E-books and Kindles are perfect alternatives to “real books”. They take up hardly any space and allow you to store hundreds (if not thousands) of books in one place.
2. Catch Up on Podcasts or Audiobooks
Audiobooks and podcasts can make your life easier and more enjoyable.
Audiobooks
Audiobooks are like having a personal storyteller on tour with you. All you need is a good pair of headphones and some imagination.
Audiobooks also provide a comforting human voice without awkward small talk if you travel solo.
Podcasts
Podcasts are like having a conversation with friends who happen to be experts in their field. Whether it’s true crime, comedy, politics or pop culture – there’s something out there for everyone. Podcasts allow us to learn new things while being entertained at the same time.
Podcasts help us to stay up-to-date, plus, they’re easy to download and listen to offline, so you never have to worry about using data or finding Wi-Fi when travelling abroad.
3. Get Creative
Adult colouring books have become increasingly popular over the past few years. They’ve even been touted as a therapy to relieve stress and anxiety.
Unwinding with coloured pencils is incredibly relaxing. It allows for creativity and self-expression. Plus, let’s be honest—who doesn’t love the accomplishment of filling up an entire page with colourful designs?
4. Watch Movies or TV Shows
Before your flight, download your favourite shows. Otherwise, your viewing choices will be limited to whatever your airline offers.
Alternatively, streaming services will keep you entertained and help pass the time on your next journey.
Netflix
Netflix is the king of all streaming services, and it has a vast collection of movies and TV shows. With their download feature, you can easily save your favourite shows and movies to watch offline during your flight.
Amazon Prime Video
If you are an Amazon Prime member, don’t forget to take advantage of their video service. They have a great selection of movies and TV shows.
5. Play Games
Playing games like Sudoku and crossword puzzles are fun things to do on a plane to pass the time.
Of course, you can buy paper puzzle books, but these will add bulk to your carry-on bag. You may prefer to download a few mobile apps to keep you busy!
6. Listen to Music
Music is your ultimate secret weapon for staying calm and relaxed in the air and while you wait for your flight to board.
It’s been scientifically proven that music can reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. So, how do you harness the calming power of music when flying? Here are some tips:
Choose your playlist wisely
Think about what kind of mood you want to set. Do you need something upbeat to energise you during the long flight? Or would you prefer something soothing and serene to help lull you into a peaceful slumber?
Top Tip: Mix up the genres to have a variety of tunes to pick from.
Invest in noise-cancelling headphones
Let’s be honest- airplane cabins can be noisy AF. Whether it’s crying babies, chatty passengers, or engine noise, there’s always sound around us on flights.
Noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds are essential if you want to enjoy your chosen tunes without distractions.
Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones
These great noise-cancelling headphones reduce noise by up to 98% and have an ultra-long 50m hour playtime.
7. Organise Your Photos
One of the best things to do on a plane with your phone is to review your photos and delete the ones you no longer need. (We all have those!)
You could free up a ton of storage and making finding your favourite photos so much easier.
8. Plan Your Schedule
Do you dread flying because it feels like a colossal waste of time? Here’s a solution: plan your schedule while on the flight!
Yes, I know what you’re thinking, “Who wants to work on a plane?” But hear me out. There are so many benefits to planning your schedule while flying.
No distractions!
No annoying coworkers interrupt you every five minutes with their latest cat videos or gossip about Karen from accounting.
You can be productive
Being trapped in a tiny seat for hours can be productive if you use your time well. You have little else to do, so why not sit there and think about your upcoming tasks, then prioritise them?
Once you land, you’ll already have a game plan instead of frantically trying to figure out what needs to be done next. And let’s be honest, we all know how overwhelming that feeling can be.
It gets better!
Planning your schedule on a flight also gives you an excuse to avoid small talk with strangers sitting next to you. Just wear your noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds and get lost in your own world of productivity.
So next time you dread a long flight, embrace the opportunity for uninterrupted focus and use that time wisely by planning your schedule.
9. Write Your Week’s To-Do List
Before you settle in for a nap, have you considered using your time to write your to-do list?
The benefits of writing your to-do list while on a flight
It’s a great way to kill time during long flights. We all know how quickly boredom can set in when you’re stuck in cattle class coach for hours with stale pretzels and bad movies for company.
Travel can inspire productivity
Something about being up in the air inspires my productivity. Maybe it’s the lack of distractions or the thrill of being suspended thousands of feet above ground level. Whatever it is, take advantage of it!
Why should you make a list?
Can’t you wing it once you land? Sure…if you want to forget half the things you were supposed to do or spend precious time trying to remember what those things were.
A clear plan for what needs to be done will save you time and reduce stress once your trip ends. Plus (and this is where things get exciting), crossing items off your list feels SO good!
10. Prepare For Your Trip
A long flight is a great time to read a travel guide for your destination and make any last-minute decisions about the things you don’t want to miss when you arrive!
You might also want to look for the best places to eat or check for top-rated tours.
11. Write a Story or a Journal
Journalling is one of the most therapeutic things to do on a plane!
Now, I know what you’re thinking… “Really? Writing in my journal on a plane?” But trust me, it’s very calming and can help to pass the time quickly.
Journalling allows you to reflect on your travel experiences and capture memories that would otherwise fade away over time. Plus, it’s a great way to express yourself creatively and get some much-needed alone time amidst the chaos of air travel.
Writing in your journal can also make for some fun reading material later on. When you’re cramped up in a tiny seat with dozens of strangers around you, the possibilities for amusing anecdotes are endless!
Maybe the person next to you snores like a warthog or keeps falling asleep on your shoulder. These small moments can make for hilarious stories.
So grab a pen and paper (or open that Word document) and jot down your thoughts and observations. It might even inspire you to start writing your own travel blog!
12. Write Your Bucket List
Have you ever sat down and thought about writing your bucket list?
Start Brainstorming
Grab a pen and paper (or open up a new Google doc) and think about all the things you’ve always wanted to do but haven’t had the chance yet. Skydiving? Travelling to a foreign country? Learning how to cook an exotic dish? Don’t be afraid to dream big!
Think about your timeline
Include short-term goals that you can achieve in the near future and long-term goals that may take years of planning. Here are some bucket list ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Visit every continent
- Learn a new language
- Run a marathon
- Write a book
- Go on a safari
- Volunteer abroad
- Learn how to surf
- Attend the Olympics
Prioritise your list based on what’s most important to you and what’s feasible within your budget and schedule.
This is YOUR bucket list. It should reflect who YOU are and what YOU want out of life. Don’t forget – it’s not set in stone!
As you cross off items on your list or discover new passions, add or modify your goals.
13. Strike Up A Conversation
Humans are social creatures, and we love to interact with others. Talking to your fellow passengers is a great way to learn about different cultures and perspectives, and you could make new friends.
However, starting a conversation with strangers can be daunting for some people, so here are some tips:
Begin with a smile
A simple smile can break down barriers and make you seem more approachable. Smile at your fellow passenger before starting the conversation (obviously in a non-creepy way).
Pay a compliment
Complimenting someone can be an excellent icebreaker, showing that you’re interested in getting to know them better. You could compliment their outfit or ask where they bought something they’re wearing.
Ask open-ended questions
Instead of asking yes or no questions, ask open-ended questions that require more than just a one-word answer. Try, “What brings you here?” or “Have you been on this flight route before?”
Listen attentively
Active listening means paying attention to what someone is saying without interrupting or judging them. Listening attentively will help you understand their perspective better.
Share stories
Sharing personal stories can help build connections quickly as it helps people relate to each other.
Keep it light-hearted
Avoid discussing controversial topics like politics or religion unless you know the other person shares your views.
14. Stretch Your Legs
Make sure you get up and stretch your legs every few hours. Walk down the aisle or do some simple stretches in your seat to get the blood flowing. This helps to prevent stiffness and soreness.
Try some light exercises like squats or lunges. You might feel silly exercising in front of other passengers, but who cares? You’ll get your blood pumping and burn off those airplane snacks.
Top Tips: Speaking of snacks, pack healthy options like fruits, veggies, and nuts instead of sugary or processed foods to keep your energy levels up.
15. Try Seated Yoga
Seated yoga is another great way to make your flight experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
It may sound strange, but once you try it, you’ll wonder how you survived without it. Yoga can help with circulation and flexibility during long flights and lift your mood.
Seated yoga poses are discreet and easy to do from the comfort of your seat – even while watching an in-flight movie.
16. Enjoy a Meal
Airplane meals help pass the time during long flights, but register your dietary preferences when booking your flight.
Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have other dietary restrictions, airlines offer options to accommodate every passenger’s needs.
From the moment the flight attendant hands over your meal tray, your steaming hot food will whet your appetite and tingle your taste buds.
Take a moment to appreciate how nicely presented everything looks and snap some photos for social media – it’s a key part of your flight experience!
Regardless of how fast or slow your fellow passengers eat, go at your own pace and savour every bite. No one is waiting for you to vacate your seat as soon as you finish eating!
17. Have a Drink
Feeling thirsty? Drinks are included in most airline meals (apart from short-haul European budget airlines!) From hydrating mineral water and juices to wines, beers and mixers, there’s bound to be something to tempt you.
Top Tip: It’s wise to limit your alcohol intake to avoid becoming dehydrated!
18. Catch Up On Sleep
We all know that travelling can be exhausting, especially on a long-haul flight. But did you know that catching some z’s during your flight will make all the difference in how refreshed you feel upon arrival?
Here are some tips for getting some much-needed shut-eye while flying.
Invest in some sleep aids
- Noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds help block out the sounds of the plane and other passengers
- A silk sleep mask will block out any light and create a cosy, dark environment to help you drift off
Read also: How To Sleep On A Vacation
Don’t underestimate the power of a comfy blanket!
Airlines often provide paper-thin blankets that barely cover your legs. If you need to be toasty warm to drift off, pack your own plush blanket or a soft pashmina in your cabin bag, wrap yourself up like a burrito and snooze away.
Lastly, try to get comfortable by adjusting your seat or using pillows.
19. Meditate
If you’re tired of the stress and anxiety of travelling, meditation is a great way to find peace and serenity in the chaos.
Meditation can be done almost anywhere, including on a plane! Find your seat and get comfortable. Ensure your seatbelt is fastened and your tray table is stowed away.
Sit straight against the seatback and place your hands on your lap or knees. You can also use an eye mask or earplugs if it helps you focus.
Use your favourite meditation app as your guide 🙂
20. Plan Your Next Trip
Endless hours of sitting in cramped quarters with nothing to do but stare out the window, praying for a smooth landing is incredibly tedious. But planning your next adventure can make your time in the air fly by (pun intended)!
You could spend your flight scrolling through social media or watching mediocre movies on the inflight entertainment system. Or you could use this precious downtime to research and dream up your next big trip.
Whether you fancy a weekend getaway or an epic around-the-world journey, there’s no better time than now to start planning.
Pick a Destination
Do you want to soak up the sun on a beautiful beach or explore ancient ruins? The possibilities are endless! Use your time on the plane to research destinations and get inspired by photos and travel blogs.
Start Planning The Details
What’s your budget? How long do you want to stay? Will you travel solo or with friends/family/significant other/pet hamster?
Research flights, accommodations, activities, and local customs so that you’re ready to hit the ground running when you land.
Have Some Fun
Use this opportunity to indulge in some travel-related daydreaming. Imagine wandering through a desert town in Egypt or sipping gin at a quaint distillery in North Yorkshire.
Close your eyes and picture yourself on a hammock overlooking turquoise waters or hiking through misty mountains – it’s a great way to relax!
21. Take Pictures
Whether it’s your first time on an airplane, or you’re a travel veteran, there will always be new and different things to see and photograph.
It could be a great chance to hone your photography skills, practice using your camera in manual mode instead of automatic, or create a photo journal of your vacation.
22. Surf The Web
If you want to surf the web during your flight, here’s what you need to do:
Check if your airline offers in-flight Wi-Fi
Most major airlines now offer this service for a fee (though some may offer it for free), so check their website or ask when booking your ticket.
Connect
Once on board, connect to the Wi-Fi network and enter any login details required. You’ll typically be redirected to a page where you can choose pricing options based on your needed data.
Get surfing
Like on the ground, you can use your favourite browser (Chrome, Safari, Firefox – take your pick) and search engines, but note that Wi-Fi “in the sky” will be slower than you’re used to on the ground.
Pro Tip: Save content offline before takeoff so you have something to read or watch even if the internet slows down or cuts out altogether.
Netflix lets users download content ahead of time while connected to Wi-Fi – so they can watch it later – without needing an internet connection.
23. Practice a Language
A long flight is an ideal time to get to grips with a new language.
Whether you want some essential phrases for your trip, or you’re practising a language you’ve studied longer term, you could plug in and listen to a language lesson or a foreign language movie.
Read also: Do They Speak English in Greece? Do I need to Learn Greek?
24. Get Inspired By The Airline’s Magazine
Airline magazines can be a mine of information about destinations, so it’s worth a quick flick through to see what grabs your attention.
You might even be inspired to visit somewhere new after you’ve read abo
25. Do Some Work!
If you have a bunch of work to get through that you could do on your journey, why not get ahead and get it done?
I love to use “downtime” when I’m travelling to finish any work, so I have more time to myself at each destination 🙂
FAQs: Things To Do On A Plane to Pass Time
What can I do to pass the time on a plane?
The best way to prepare for air travel is to have several different things to do. You may love binge-watching something but could get bored on a long journey and want to try other things.
Reading, listening to audiobooks and music, watching movies, journalling, and listening to music are all good things to do on a plane.
What are the best things for kids to do on a plane?
Undoubtedly, the best things to keep kids happy and busy on a plane are ones that stimulate their minds without irritating other passengers! An iPad, preloaded with games and favourite movies, is a top choice!
What to do on a 20 hour flight?
A long flight is a perfect opportunity to hunker down and watch your favourite movies or lose yourself in a great book, but remember to get up and stretch regularly to stay healthy 🙂
What can I take on a plane so as not to get bored?
Pack your carry-on bag with a selection of things to do, including a device loaded with movies or music, a great book, puzzles and a travel journal to write in. If you love crafts, take a small project to work on!
Do planes have Wi-Fi?
The simple answer is yes; however, you may need to pay extra for this service, which may not be available on all flights or in all seating classes.
Conclusion: What To Do On a Plane
So, there you have it! Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time flyer, these tips and tricks will help you pass the time and make your flight more comfortable.
From reading a good book to watching movies or engaging in some light exercise, there’s no limit to what you can do on a long flight.
So, next time you plan a trip, remember these handy suggestions for stuff to do on a plane.
- Can You Take Honey On A Plane? Complete Guide (+TSA Rules)
- How To Survive a Long Layover At The Airport: 19 Top Tips
- Best Books to Read on a Plane
- Best Long Haul Flight Tips
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