A long-haul flight can be a time to catch up on sleep for some, but if you’re not really a flight sleeper (sometimes those seats can be uncomfortable) it’s best to plan something else to occupy your time. Here’s some of the best ways to pass the time on a long flight, so the time – wait for it – flies by.
Create a Vision Board (Digitally or on Paper)
Remember that vision board you were planning to make at the start of 2025 and now that January feels like a dream, you’ve just continued to put off? Well, now is the time to take on the challenge. A vision board can help you map out your future goals, travel dreams or personal milestones, or you can always start a gratitude journal – really, any of those creative tasks that can help you gain a bit more clarity on life but that you’ve never found the time to do, a long flight can be the time. Apps like Canva or Pinterest can help you get started on this, making you more mindful from the moment you touch down.
Learn the Basics of a New Language
So, you’ve got a decent Duolingo streak, but what better time to practice a language than on a destination to a new place? Bonus points if you’re flying to a country where that language is spoken; practical and productive.
Curate a Personal Playlist or Photo Album
Have no storage left? You could always organise your phone’s photos or make a new lockscreen for yourself. Alternatively, if you’re preparing for a long drive, why not make a themed playlist for your road trip ahead, or pop on your comfiest headphones and listen to that long self-help podcast you’ve had bookmarked forever. It’ll change your life, promise.
Start a Mini Travel Journal or Sketchbook
If you’re heading on a journey on a lifetime, why not start up your own sketchbook or travel journal? You could doodle what you see out of the window, or start documenting your travel experience (we all know airports are a liminal, strange space); it’s a great way to be present, and if you already have your travel journal started when you touch down, you might be more inclined to keep going. Junk journaling is a fun way of keeping travel memories – it’s kind of like a scrapbook for receipts and sweet wrappers from your journey, the things you would normally throw away but now will make a great keepsake.
Download a Puzzle Book or Brain Game App
Either you can grab a crossword from the airport duty free, or you can download a puzzle game on your phone; creative brain games like Elevate or Peak can make time fly by while still maintaining your focus, leaving you feeling productive even after a long flight. Make sure your apps work offline, though, as you’ll want to keep that airplane mode on!
