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Takeoff Time: 50 Things to Do on a Plane When You're Bored

Flying can be anxiety-inducing, especially when "what if" thoughts start to creep in. Boredom and anxiety make for a challenging combination.

 In this blog post, we've put together a list of 43 engaging activities to help you ease those nerves at 30,000 feet. From reading and watching movies to practicing mindfulness and learning a new language, having a well-planned set of activities can transform your flight into a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.

50 Things You Can Do While Flying to Beat Boredom (so that anxiety doesn’t creep in)

  1. Read a book

  2. Watch in-flight movies.

  3. Listen to music or podcasts.

  4. Solve puzzles, like crosswords or Sudoku.

  5. Work on a jigsaw puzzle app.

  6. Play mobile games.

  7. Write in a travel journal. Click here for ideas. 

  8. Plan your trip itinerary.

  9. Edit and organize photos on your device.

  10. Sketch or draw.Click here for ideas. 

  11. Listen to an audiobook.

  12. Make a list of new restaurants you want to try on your trip.

  13. Learn a new language with language learning apps.

  14. Catch up on work or study.

  15. Watch travel documentaries.

  16. Meditate or practice deep breathing exercises.

  17. Do light stretches in your seat.

  18. Chat with your seatmate. 

  19. People-watch.

  20. Try out a coloring book for adults.

  21. Listen to white noise or calming sounds.

  22. Play card games or board games with a travel-sized set.

  23. Plan your next vacation.

  24. Organize your digital files.

  25. Play Sudoku or other brain-teaser games.

  26. Create a to-do list for when you land.

  27. Practice mindfulness and live in the moment.

  28. Try origami with an airline napkin.

  29. Create a travel bucket list.

  30. Listen to a guided relaxation audio.

  31. Knit or crochet.

  32. Strike up a conversation with a flight attendant.

  33. Solve riddles or brainteasers.

  34. Learn about the history and culture of your destination.

  35. Plan your return trip.

  36. Organize your email or digital life.

  37. Solve a Rubik's Cube or similar puzzle.

  38. Meal prep for your trip to save money on eating out.

  39. Practice your photography skills.

  40. Do word searches or crossword puzzles.

  41. Learn about the airline and its services.

  42. Listen to comedy podcasts for a good laugh.

  43. Learn about constellations and stargazing.

  44. Start a travel blog.

  45. Create a playlist of your favorite travel songs.

  46. Explore the airline's in-flight entertainment system.

  47. Read travel magazines or brochures.

  48. Catch up on the news

  49. Meal prep from the week you get home to remove some of the stress of returning home.

  50. Explore new topics on youtube, such as  minimalism, how to take great photos using your iphone, how to get out of debt

Why let anxiety overshadow the joy of air travel? Embrace this chance to immerse yourself in engaging activities that not only keep your mind occupied but also bring a sense of calm to your flight. Consider this time as an opportunity to explore new interests and cultivate your knowledge.

When you approach flying as a moment for relaxation, personal growth, or connecting with fellow travelers, you take a significant step toward becoming a more confident flyer. Keep moving forward, and make the most of your flight!

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