20 Things to Do on a Long Flight
If you’re like me and can’t sleep on a plane, you know the struggle. Stuck in a metal tube at 38,000 feet, surrounded by snoring strangers, the hours stretch on like an eternity. Flying long distances is its own kind of endurance sport, and let’s be honest—it can be boring. But it doesn’t have to be! Here are 20 things to do on a long flight to keep your sanity intact (and maybe even enjoy yourself).
1. Watch a Long Movie (or Two!)
This is prime time to finally watch that three-hour epic you’ve been avoiding. Need more? Double feature it. Most airlines offer a solid selection of films, or you can download some before your flight.
2. Read a Book
There’s something magical about getting lost in a good book while floating above the clouds. Whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, or a juicy travel guide, reading is one of the best activities for long flights.
3. Listen to a Podcast or Audiobook
Close your eyes, lean back, and let someone else do the talking. Whether it’s true crime, comedy, or fun travel trivia, this is a great way to stay entertained on a plane without straining your eyes.
4. Play Travel Games for Long Flights
Pack a deck of cards, download Sudoku, or play a travel trivia app. If you have a seatmate, why not start a game of 20 Questions? It’s a great icebreaker!
5. Plan Your Trip Itinerary
Why not get organized for your arrival? Make a to-do list for when you land, check out local hotspots, or research some last-minute hidden gems.
6. Journal or Blog About Your Journey
This is your chance to document your thoughts, experiences, and in-flight mishaps. The guy in 12B snoring like a bear? The bizarre in-flight meal? It’s all great content for a blog post!
7. Meditate and Relax
Flying can be stressful, but a little mindfulness goes a long way. Try breathing exercises or a guided meditation app to keep calm at 38,000 feet.
8. Catch Up on Your Favorite TV Show
Binge-watching isn’t just for home! Many long-haul flights come with in-flight entertainment, or you can preload your device with your favorite series.
9. Study a Language
Why not pick up some local phrases before you land? Language learning apps can make the process fun and interactive. Bonus points if you practice with a flight attendant!
10. Walk Around the Cabin & Stretch
Sitting for hours = leg cramps. Get up, take a lap around the plane, and do some seat exercises to keep the blood flowing. You don’t want to arrive feeling like a statue!
11. Chat with the Cabin Crew
If you’re feeling social, head to the galley and chat with the flight attendants (when they’re not busy, of course). They have the best stories about in-flight shenanigans.
12. Listen to Music or Create a Playlist
Curate the perfect travel soundtrack and zone out with some relaxing tunes. Noise-canceling headphones make this even better!
13. Get Some Work Done
A long flight is the perfect distraction-free workspace. Catch up on emails, brainstorm ideas, or tackle that report—just don’t forget to download important files before boarding!
14. Play Fun Travel Trivia
Test your knowledge with fun travel trivia or challenge yourself with geography quizzes. Can you name all the countries you’ve visited?
15. Sleep (If You Can!)
For those lucky enough to sleep on planes, make the most of it! A travel pillow, eye mask, and noise-canceling headphones can make all the difference.
16. Sketch or Doodle
Even if you’re not an artist, doodling can be a fun way to pass the time. Sketch the view from your window or invent a comic about your flight experience.
17. Write a Letter or Postcard
Call me old-fashioned, but writing a postcard mid-flight and mailing it upon arrival feels nostalgic and special. Bonus: it’s a great way to surprise a loved one!
18. Watch Live Sports (If Available)
Many modern flights offer live TV, including sports channels. If there’s a big game happening, grab some snacks and enjoy the match at 38,000 feet.
19. Make a Bucket List
Use the quiet time to dream big. Where do you want to travel next? What experiences are still on your must-do list? Write it all down!
20. Stare Out the Window and Daydream
Sometimes, the best thing to do is simply sit back and appreciate the journey. Look out at the clouds, let your mind wander, and enjoy the fact that you’re literally soaring through the sky.
Final Thoughts: Surviving Long Flights Like a Pro
A long-haul flight doesn’t have to be miserable! Whether you watch movies, journal, play games, or learn something new, there are plenty of things to do on a long flight to make the time fly.
FAQs on Things to Do on a Long Flight
1. What are the best things to do on a long flight to stay entertained?
The best way to survive a long flight is to mix it up! Watch a long movie, play travel games for long flights, read a book, or even chat with the cabin crew. The key is variety—switch activities to keep things fresh.
2. How can I be productive on a long flight?
A long flight is a great time to catch up on work, plan your itinerary, or even start journaling about your trip. Many travelers use the downtime to brainstorm ideas, write emails (even if they send later), or study a new language.
3. What are fun things to do on a plane without WiFi?
No WiFi? No problem! Download movies, audiobooks, or podcasts before takeoff. Play fun travel trivia, sketch, write a blog post, or make a bucket list. You can also take a break from screens and just stare out the window—cloud watching is underrated!
4. How can I sleep better on a long-haul flight?
Pack a travel pillow, eye mask, and noise-canceling headphones for the best chances of dozing off. Stick to your usual sleep schedule if possible, avoid caffeine, and don’t forget those comfy socks. Surviving long flights is easier when you’re well-rested!
5. Is it okay to walk around the plane during a flight?
Yes! Getting up and stretching your legs is essential for flying long distances. Doing simple seat exercises and occasional walks to the galley can help prevent stiffness and keep your circulation going. Just be mindful of sleeping passengers!
6. What are good solo activities for long flights?
Flying alone? Try writing a travel journal, learning a new language, playing solo card games, or watching a full TV series marathon. How to make a long flight enjoyable? Keep yourself engaged, and the hours will fly by.
7. How can I make talking to cabin crew more fun?
Flight attendants have some of the best stories! If they’re not busy, strike up a friendly conversation—ask about their craziest in-flight experiences, or get insider travel tips for frequent flyers. Just don’t hover in the galley for too long!
