Whether you’re embarking on a long international journey or covering a great distance domestically, long flights can feel never-ending. Hours spent in a confined space often lead to boredom, discomfort, and even potential health concerns. However, with a few smart strategies, you can turn your long-haul flight into a more pleasant and manageable experience. Here are some of the best tips to help you stay comfortable and entertained throughout the journey. 1. Watch a Long Movie or Watch a TV Show One of the best things to do on a long flight is to dive into a movie or binge-watch a TV series. Long-haul flights are the perfect opportunity to catch up on those films you’ve been meaning to watch or to start a new series that you wouldn’t normally have time for. Many airlines offer a wide selection of in-flight entertainment, including the latest blockbusters and popular TV shows. If you’re looking for things to do on an airplane, bring your own tablet loaded with movies or shows, just in case the in-flight options don’t appeal to you. 2. Read a Book or Interesting Articles Another great way to pass the time on a flight is by reading. Whether you prefer a gripping novel, a fascinating biography, or interesting articles on topics that interest you, reading is a fantastic way to immerse yourself and make the hours fly by. E-readers or tablets are ideal, allowing you to bring multiple books or articles without the extra weight. A good book might just be your best companion. 3. Listen to a Podcast or Audiobook Listening to a podcast or audiobook is one of the most engaging airplane activities that doesn’t require much effort. Whether you’re into true crime, history, comedy, or self-improvement, there’s a podcast for everyone. Audiobooks are also a great option, allowing you to immerse yourself in a story without having to focus on a screen. Download a few episodes or books before your flight, so you have plenty of content to keep you entertained. This is especially handy when looking for things to do on a plane without WiFi. 4. Quality Sleep or Meditation Getting some quality sleep or practicing meditation can be crucial for surviving a long-haul flight. Investing in a good travel pillow, eye mask, and noise-canceling headphones can make all the difference when it comes to how to be comfortable on a long flight. If sleep isn’t coming easily, try guided meditation apps designed to help you relax and unwind. These strategies can help you feel more rested and ready to explore your destination upon arrival. 5. Play Cards or Travel Mini-Games with Your Neighbor Playing cards or engaging in travel-sized mini-games with your seatmate is a fun way to pass the time and make new friends on a flight. Whether you prefer classic card games like Go Fish or a portable board game, these activities can break the monotony and even spark interesting conversations. Just remember to pack a compact game set that doesn’t require much space, making it perfect for in-flight entertainment. 6. Plan a Travel Route or Keep a Journal About Your Trip Long flights provide an excellent opportunity to plan your travel itinerary or reflect on your journey by keeping a journal. Use this time to map out your route, list must-see attractions, or jot down your thoughts and experiences. Keeping a journal is not only a great way to document your travels but also a relaxing and creative way to spend your time in the air. If you’re wondering what to do on a plane to stay productive, planning your trip or journaling can make the flight feel shorter and more purposeful. 7. Walk Around the Cabin to Stretch Your Legs One of the most important things to do on a long flight is to get up and move around periodically. Sitting for long periods can lead to stiffness, discomfort, and even more serious issues like blood clots. Take a few minutes every couple of hours to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs. This simple activity can improve circulation, reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis, and help you feel more refreshed upon arrival. It’s one of the simplest yet most effective travel tips for long flights. 8. Play Video Games on Your Tablet or Phone For those who enjoy gaming, playing video games on your tablet or phone can be one of the most entertaining airplane activities. Whether you prefer casual puzzle games or more immersive adventures, having a few games downloaded before your flight ensures you have something fun to do, especially on long flights. Just be sure to bring your headphones and a portable charger so you can keep playing without disturbing others or worrying about battery life. This is also a great option when looking for things to do on a flight that doesn’t require an internet connection. 9. Shop Online or Browse the Web If your flight offers in-flight WiFi, shopping online or browsing the web can be a convenient way to pass the time. Whether you’re catching up on the latest sales, ordering something you’ve had your eye on, or just casually browsing, this is one of the more relaxed activities. You can also use this time to read the news, check social media, or explore new websites. Just keep in mind that WiFi on planes can sometimes be slow, so have patience while enjoying these activities. 10. Catch Up on Work or Start a New Project Long flights are an excellent opportunity to be productive. If you have work to catch up on or a new project to start, this uninterrupted time can be incredibly valuable. Whether it’s responding to emails, drafting a report, or brainstorming ideas for a new project, this can be one of the most effective travel hacks for long flights. Just be sure to charge your laptop or tablet before boarding and have any necessary files downloaded in case WiFi isn’t available. Using this time efficiently can make the journey feel much more worthwhile. 11. Learn a Language or Take an Online Course A long flight offers a great opportunity to learn something new. Whether you’re interested in picking up a new language or taking an online course, this time can be used productively. Many apps allow you to download lessons in advance, so you can study without needing an internet connection. This is one of the more enriching things to do on an airplane and can turn your flight time into a valuable learning experience. Plus, learning a few phrases in the language of your destination can enhance your travel experience. 12. Enjoy Music or Create New Playlists Listening to your favorite music or creating new playlists is a relaxing way to pass the time on a long flight. Music can help you unwind, reduce stress, and even help you fall asleep. Simply put on some noise-canceling headphones and enjoy your favorite tunes. Additionally, creating new playlists can be a fun way to organize your music for different moods or activities, making this one of the more creative airplane activities to enjoy while flying. 13. Try a Creative Hobby, Such as Drawing, Coloring, or Knitting Engaging in a creative hobby is a fantastic way to pass the time and stay calm during a long flight. Whether you enjoy drawing, coloring, or knitting, these activities can be both relaxing and productive. Packing a small sketchbook, colored pencils, or a knitting project in your carry-on ensures you have something to focus on. These airplane activities are particularly good for reducing stress and can make the flight feel much shorter. If you’re looking for things to do on a long flight that allow you to express your creativity, this is a perfect choice. 14. Relax and Rejuvenate with a Facial or Skin Treatment Long flights can take a toll on your skin, leaving it feeling dry and fatigued. To counteract this, consider bringing along some travel-sized skincare products to pamper yourself mid-flight. A hydrating facial mist, sheet mask, or moisturizing cream can help keep your skin fresh and hydrated. These travel tips for long flights not only improve your comfort but also leave you feeling rejuvenated when you land. Incorporating a little self-care into your journey is a great way to stay relaxed and feel your best after a long trip. 15. Play Quizzes or Puzzles Quizzes and puzzles are engaging things to do on a flight that can challenge your mind and help pass the time. Whether you enjoy crossword puzzles, Sudoku, or trivia quizzes, these activities are perfect for keeping yourself entertained during a long flight. Many airlines offer interactive games as part of their in-flight entertainment systems, or you can bring along a puzzle book or download a quiz app on your phone. 16. Watch Live Sports and Entertainment Programs Available on the Plane Many long-haul flights offer live TV, including sports and entertainment programs, as part of their in-flight entertainment options. This is a great way to stay connected to live events while in the air, whether it’s catching a big game or enjoying your favorite TV shows. Watching live sports can be especially exciting, as it brings a sense of real-time connection even while you’re flying. If you’re looking for entertainment that offers both excitement and variety, tuning into live broadcasts is a solid choice. 17. Have a Drink or Two and Relax Finally, one of the simplest and most enjoyable things to do on an airplane is to have a drink and relax. Whether you prefer a glass of wine, a cocktail, or a non-alcoholic beverage, sipping on a drink can help you unwind and make the flight more enjoyable. Just remember to stay hydrated and drink in moderation, as alcohol can have a stronger effect at high altitudes. This laid-back approach is a great way to cap off your list of things to do on a long flight, ensuring you arrive at your destination feeling relaxed and ready to go. Read also: What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag Conclusion Long flights don’t have to be a tedious ordeal. With the right approach, you can turn your journey into a more comfortable and even enjoyable experience. From watching movies and reading books to engaging in creative hobbies and planning your next adventure, there are plenty of activities that can help pass the time. Whether you’re looking for airplane activities to keep you entertained or ways to stay productive, these tips cover a wide range of options to suit any traveler. By planning ahead and keeping these travel tips for long flights in mind, you’ll know exactly how to make the hours fly by.