23 Things to Do on Long Flights You Might Not Have Thought of Before

Embarking on a long-haul flight soon? Brace yourself for an array of exciting and productive things to do on long flights you might not have thought of before!

From creating small crafts to playing offline games, this guide unveils a wide array of 23 engaging activities to make time fly by.

Whether you’re seeking entertainment or looking to boost productivity, there’s something for everyone in this compilation of clever ways to conquer boredom on your long flight.

Dive into this comprehensive list to discover how to make the most out of your long flights, even without Wi-Fi.

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23 Things to Do on Long Flights:

1. Engage in Small Crafts

Engaging in crafts or handiwork on a long flight is a great way to pass the time. It’s enjoyable and lets you get creative while traveling. 

Whether it’s knitting, crochet, or any craft you love, it’s a fun way to stay occupied during the flight and make something cool at the same time.

Explore these beginner-friendly crochet kits —perfect for learning crochet and crafting something adorable during your flight!

2. Listen to Audiobooks

Listening to audiobooks during a lengthy flight is an excellent way to pass the time!

Audiobooks offer a relaxed alternative when reading feels a bit demanding.

I also find that audiobooks make it easier for me to paint a picture in my head of the story that is unfolding.

Plus, with the convenience of digital libraries and apps, you have a wide selection at your fingertips, ensuring there’s always something you’ll enjoy listening to throughout the journey.

You can check out Audible or the Libby App for audiobooks.

3. Plan Your Itinerary for Your Trip

If you find yourself running out of time to finalize your trip itinerary before departure, using the flight time to complete it is a smart and exciting way to make the most of your long journey. 

Not only does it fill the flight hours productively, but it also amps up your anticipation for your upcoming trip!

Whether it’s mapping out places to visit, researching local spots, or jotting down must-try restaurants, planning during a flight is your pre-adventure adventure!

Ever find yourself already thinking about your next adventure while on the way back from a trip? 

Guilty as charged – I’ve been there too, and it’s kind of exciting! 

Using the return journey to start planning your next trip is great way to utilize your time on the flight back home.

P.S. If you’re traveling internationally, I highly recommend purchasing the Airalo eSIM. It’s a great way to avoid those excessive roaming charges and eliminates the need for plastic eSIMs!

4. Sleep

Take advantage of the flight to catch up on some much-needed sleep or relaxation.

Sleeping on a long flight is a game-changer! Not only does it help you pass the time effortlessly, but it’s also a fantastic way to arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready to go. 

It’s a win-win; you’re well-rested, and the flight feels shorter!

If you find it hard to sleep on the plane (like I do!), here are some tips to make falling asleep on the plane easier:

• Choose a window seat since it provides a spot to lean against, offering more support for your head and a space to rest.
• Bring along a neck pillow, eye mask, and earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to block out any disturbances. A cozy blanket can also provide additional comfort.
• Try out an elevated footrest sling to increase your comfort.
• Avoid consuming caffeine close to your flight time as this will make it harder for you to fall asleep.

Be sure to check out my other long flight essentials to ensure you stay comfortable and feel great on your long flight!

5. Learn a New Skill

Utilizing a long flight to pick up a new skill is a fantastic way to make the most of your time in the air. 

Whether it’s mastering a few phrases in a new language, exploring the basics of coding, or even learning to draw, the hours spent flying become an opportunity for personal growth. 

Engaging in a new skill not only occupies your mind but also provides a sense of accomplishment. 

Skillshare is a great resource for learning a new skill. It is an online learning platform that provides access to thousands of classes covering topics such as graphic design, photography, illustration, marketing, business, technology, and more.

You can also download the classes before your flight so you can watch them while offline.

Babbel is a popular language learning app with a focus on practical conversation skills.

Check out ways to save space in your suitcase with my 40 essential carry-on packing tips!

6. Watch Movies or TV Shows

Whether it’s catching up on that series everyone’s been raving about or finally watching that movie on your list, this is your chance to binge-watch without any guilt!

Be sure to load up your device with the downloads of the movies and tv show episodes so you can watch them offline.

It’s a great way to distract yourself from the cramped space. So, grab those headphones, settle in, and let it take your mind off the long journey. 

It’s an effortless way to make that flight feel shorter and a lot more enjoyable! 

7. Write or Journal

Ever thought about using your flight time for a bit of self-reflection and creativity? 

Bringing a journal or notebook along is a great idea!

Whether it’s jotting down thoughts, documenting your travels, or following writing prompts, journaling is one of the many great things to do on long flights to pass the time.  

Many find journaling to be therapeutic, making it a great way to unwind and declutter your mind during hectic travels.

Writing down journal prompts ahead of time, whether its prompts about gratitude, reflections, or creative writing, can make the writing process easier and more thought-provoking.

Check out this journal with built-in writing prompts!

8. Make a Travel Bucket List

Crafting a travel bucket list during a long flight is a fantastic way to plan exciting adventures and pass the time. 

Jotting down dream destinations and experiences, makes the hours fly by while you are busy brainstorming exciting plans for future travels.

Check out this cool travel bucket list journal!

If you’re looking for places to add to your travel bucket list, check out my post about 100 things to do before you die which is full of bucket-list worthy adventures!

9. Listen to Podcasts 

If you download the podcast episodes before your flight, you can listen to them while being offline.

Whether you’re into pop culture, true crime, sports, or learning something new, you are bound to find a podcast you enjoy.

10. Organize Digital Files

Take the time during your long flight to sort through your photos, organize files, and declutter your phone.

Clearing space on your phone during a flight is a smart move, especially if you’re running low on storage. That way, you’ll have plenty of room for photos and videos on your upcoming trip!

I also feel like it’s a universal experience for everyone to go through their camera roll on a flight to beat boredom 😂.

If this is your first-time traveling internationally, be sure to check out my 20 international travel tips!

11. Read a Book

Thinking about how to make a long flight more bearable? Grabbing a book could be the trick! 

Whether you’re into fiction, a good thriller, or maybe something educational, a book can be your ticket to passing time and beating the boredom. 

I prefer to bring a kindle as it saves space in my personal item and allows me to download multiple books on one device.

Trust me, it can make those long hours in the air feel much shorter!

12. Work or Study

While it might not be the most exciting way to pass the time, utilizing your flight time to accomplish pending work or school assignments can be incredibly beneficial.

Whether it’s catching up on emails, prepping for a presentation, or diving into a study session, using your flight for productivity can be a game-changer.

Plus, there’s something about the uninterrupted environment that can supercharge your focus!

13. Play Offline Games

Engaging in crossword puzzles or sudoku during a long flight is an excellent way to pass the time while challenging your mind and keeping you entertained.

Not only do they distract you from the remaining flight time, but they also offer a sense of accomplishment as you solve each clue or complete a sudoku grid. 

They’re compact, easy to carry, and don’t require an internet connection, making them ideal things to do on long flights.

14. Plan Your Goals

Planning your goals during a long flight can be a great way to make use of that time!

It’s an opportunity to sit down, reflect, and figure out what you want to achieve. 

You can think about your personal, professional, or even educational ambitions. 

By setting clear goals, jotting down plans, and outlining steps to achieve them, you make the most of the flight hours. 

15. Brainstorm Home Projects

Imagine turning that lengthy flight into an opportunity to revamp your space! 

Brainstorming home improvement ideas can be an engaging and productive way to make the hours fly!

Use that time to jot down cool ideas for your home – like redesigning the living room or setting up a new workspace. 

Sketch it out, make a list, or just daydream about how you’d love to spruce things up. 

For me, jotting down all those home improvement ideas not only sparks excitement but also fuels inspiration! 

16. Create a Travel Journal

Start documenting your trip or create a scrapbook using travel-themed stickers and souvenirs.

Creating a travel journal during a long flight is an excellent way to pass the time. Not only does it keep you engaged, but it also becomes a beautiful keepsake of your journey. 

Documenting your thoughts, experiences, and even sketches of places you plan to visit or have already seen is both enjoyable and reflective.

It helps you organize your thoughts and memories, allowing you to relive those moments later on in life.

17. Try Origami

Carry a pack of origami paper and learn to fold various shapes and figures.

Learning origami during a lengthy flight is an awesome way to spend time and explore your creative side. 

It’s relaxing, doesn’t require many materials, and the step-by-step folding process can be relaxing. 

Plus, it’s a skill that allows you to craft beautiful paper creations, and by the end of the flight, you might surprise yourself with the things you’ve made!

Check out this beginner’s kit for learning origami!

18. Play Travel-Sized Games

Playing travel-sized games on a long flight is a fantastic way to have fun and pass the time. 

They’re compact, enjoyable, and perfect for engaging with the other people you are traveling with.

These games bring entertainment and can make your flight hours feel shorter.

Check out these 50 games on the go, mini-sized Battleship, and pocket-sized Uno.

19. Plan Your Finances

Ever considered organizing your finances during a long flight? 

It’s a smart way to kill time and set yourself up to reach your financial goals. 

From budgeting, reviewing your expenses, brainstorming your investment plans, and strategizing savings goals, a flight provides an ideal pocket of uninterrupted time.

Check out this awesome budget planner!

20. Listen to Music

Seriously, having your favorite music playlist handy can be a total game-changer while flying!

Whether it’s your favorite songs, a new album you’ve been itching to hear, or some soothing noise to relax, music is your go-to companion for those hours in the air. 

Not only does it drown out background noise, but it can elevate your mood!

21. Meditate or Practice Mindfulness

Bring calmness to your journey with meditation apps or by simply focusing on your breathing.

During lengthy flights, finding a sense of calm can be a game-changer!

Engage in deep breathing exercises or dive into guided meditation sessions, helping carry you to a place of relaxation. 

I recommend the Headspace App which offers guided meditations, calming sleep music, and more.

22. Coloring

Embrace the calming escape of coloring during those lengthy flights! It’s not just for kids!

Coloring in a book designed for adults is a fantastic way to unwind and channel creativity.

Check out this coloring book filled with intricate patterns and detailed designs!

23. Play Offline Trivia Games

Playing offline trivia games during a long flight is a great way to have fun and stay entertained. 

It keeps your mind engaged, helps you learn new things, and can be played alone or with others. 

It’s a fantastic way to pass the time without needing an internet connection, adding some enjoyable moments to your journey.

This fun trivia game comes with 110 cards containing 400 challenging but doable trivia questions!

In conclusion, these 23 things to do on long flights offer a myriad of ways to make the most of your long flight!

From entertainment to productivity and relaxation, there’s something here for everyone.

By engaging in these diverse activities, you’ll not only beat the boredom but also arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and accomplished.