Sky High Entertainment: Your Ultimate Guide to Things To Do on a Plane
Plane journeys, whether short hops or transcontinental odysseys, can often feel like a test of endurance. Stuck in a confined space, disconnected from the outside world, and battling the hum of the engines, it’s easy to succumb to boredom. But fear not, intrepid traveler! With a little preparation and creativity, you can transform your in-flight experience from a monotonous drag into a productive, relaxing, or even enjoyable adventure. This comprehensive guide will equip you with a plethora of ideas and detailed instructions on things to do on a plane, ensuring you arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready to explore.
Before You Take Off: Essential Preparation
Before you even step onto the aircraft, some pre-flight preparation can significantly enhance your in-flight experience. Consider these crucial steps:
* **Charge Your Devices:** This seems obvious, but it’s easily overlooked. Fully charge your phone, tablet, laptop, and any other electronic devices you plan to use. Power outlets on planes can be unreliable or require a specific adapter. A portable power bank is a lifesaver for longer flights.
* **Step 1: Assess your device battery life.** Consider how long your flight is and how much you plan to use each device.
* **Step 2: Fully charge all devices the night before your flight.** Don’t wait until the last minute!
* **Step 3: Invest in a high-capacity power bank.** Look for one with multiple USB ports to charge multiple devices simultaneously.
* **Step 4: Test your power bank before your trip.** Make sure it’s working correctly and fully charged.
* **Step 5: Bring the necessary charging cables.** Don’t forget the right cables for each of your devices.
* **Download Entertainment:** Don’t rely solely on the in-flight entertainment system. Download movies, TV shows, audiobooks, podcasts, and music to your devices before boarding. Streaming services often have a download option for offline viewing.
* **Step 1: Identify your preferred entertainment sources.** Netflix, Spotify, Kindle, Audible – choose what you enjoy.
* **Step 2: Download content while connected to Wi-Fi.** Avoid using mobile data to save on costs and ensure faster download speeds.
* **Step 3: Organize your downloaded content.** Create playlists, folders, or collections for easy access during the flight.
* **Step 4: Check for download limits or expiration dates.** Some services restrict the number of downloads or their availability period.
* **Step 5: Test your downloaded content before leaving for the airport.** Ensure everything is working correctly offline.
* **Pack Comfort Essentials:** A comfortable flight is a happy flight. Pack items that will help you relax and get comfortable, such as:
* **Noise-canceling headphones:** Block out the engine noise and chatty neighbors.
* **Step 1: Research different noise-canceling headphone models.** Consider factors like price, comfort, and noise cancellation effectiveness.
* **Step 2: Read reviews and compare specifications.** See what other users have to say about different models.
* **Step 3: Try on different headphones if possible.** Ensure they fit comfortably and securely.
* **Step 4: Charge your headphones before your flight.** Nothing’s worse than dead headphones mid-flight.
* **Step 5: Bring a backup pair of regular headphones.** Just in case your noise-canceling headphones malfunction.
* **Eye mask:** Block out the cabin lights and sleep soundly.
* **Step 1: Choose an eye mask made from soft, breathable material.** Silk or cotton are good options.
* **Step 2: Look for an eye mask with adjustable straps.** Ensure a comfortable and secure fit.
* **Step 3: Consider a contoured eye mask that doesn’t put pressure on your eyes.**
* **Step 4: Test the eye mask in a dark room before your flight.** Make sure it effectively blocks out light.
* **Step 5: Pack your eye mask in a clean bag to keep it hygienic.**
* **Travel pillow:** Support your neck and prevent stiffness.
* **Step 1: Decide on the type of travel pillow you prefer.** U-shaped, inflatable, or memory foam are common options.
* **Step 2: Consider the size and portability of the pillow.** Inflatable pillows are generally the most compact.
* **Step 3: Read reviews to assess the pillow’s comfort and support.**
* **Step 4: Try out the pillow before your trip if possible.** Ensure it provides adequate neck support.
* **Step 5: Pack your travel pillow in a clean bag or attach it to your carry-on.**
* **Comfortable clothing:** Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing to avoid feeling restricted.
* **Step 1: Choose fabrics that are soft, breathable, and wrinkle-resistant.** Cotton, linen, or merino wool are good choices.
* **Step 2: Layer your clothing to adjust to temperature changes.** Planes can often be too hot or too cold.
* **Step 3: Avoid tight-fitting clothing that can restrict circulation.**
* **Step 4: Wear comfortable shoes or bring a pair of slippers.**
* **Step 5: Pack a light sweater or jacket in case the cabin gets cold.**
* **Blanket (if not provided):** Some airlines provide blankets, but it’s always good to have your own for extra warmth.
* **Step 1: Choose a lightweight and packable blanket.** Microfiber or fleece blankets are good options.
* **Step 2: Consider a blanket with a built-in travel pouch.**
* **Step 3: Wash your blanket before your trip to ensure it’s clean and fresh.**
* **Step 4: Store your blanket in a zip-lock bag to keep it protected.**
* **Step 5: Be mindful of airline regulations regarding blanket sizes.**
* **Pack Hygiene Essentials:** Airplanes can be breeding grounds for germs. Pack items to help you stay clean and healthy.
* **Hand sanitizer:** Use it frequently to kill germs.
* **Step 1: Choose a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content.**
* **Step 2: Ensure the hand sanitizer is travel-sized (under 3.4 ounces/100ml).**
* **Step 3: Apply hand sanitizer frequently, especially after touching surfaces like tray tables and armrests.**
* **Step 4: Store your hand sanitizer in an easily accessible pocket in your carry-on.**
* **Step 5: Consider using hand sanitizer wipes for a more thorough cleaning.**
* **Disinfectant wipes:** Wipe down your tray table, armrests, and entertainment screen.
* **Step 1: Choose disinfectant wipes that are effective against common germs and viruses.**
* **Step 2: Ensure the wipes are travel-sized and individually wrapped.**
* **Step 3: Thoroughly wipe down all surfaces you’ll be touching, including the tray table, armrests, seatbelt buckle, and entertainment screen.**
* **Step 4: Dispose of the wipes properly after use.**
* **Step 5: Be mindful of airline regulations regarding the types of wipes allowed.**
* **Lip balm:** Combat dry cabin air.
* **Step 1: Choose a lip balm with moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, or beeswax.**
* **Step 2: Apply lip balm frequently throughout the flight, especially if you’re prone to dry lips.**
* **Step 3: Consider a lip balm with SPF protection if you’re flying during the day.**
* **Step 4: Store your lip balm in an easily accessible pocket in your carry-on.**
* **Step 5: Avoid licking your lips, as this can worsen dryness.**
* **Moisturizer:** Keep your skin hydrated.
* **Step 1: Choose a moisturizer that is suitable for your skin type.**
* **Step 2: Ensure the moisturizer is travel-sized (under 3.4 ounces/100ml).**
* **Step 3: Apply moisturizer to your face and hands throughout the flight, especially after washing your hands.**
* **Step 4: Consider a facial mist for an extra boost of hydration.**
* **Step 5: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated from the inside out.**
* **Hydrate:** Bring an empty water bottle to fill after you pass through security. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially on long flights.
* **Step 1: Purchase an empty, reusable water bottle before your flight.**
* **Step 2: Pack the empty water bottle in your carry-on luggage.**
* **Step 3: After passing through security, fill your water bottle at a water fountain or purchase bottled water.**
* **Step 4: Drink water regularly throughout the flight, even if you don’t feel thirsty.**
* **Step 5: Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol, as they can dehydrate you.**
* **Pack Snacks:** Airplane food can be expensive and often not very appealing. Pack your own healthy snacks to avoid hunger pangs.
* **Step 1: Choose non-perishable snacks that are easy to pack and eat.**
* **Step 2: Consider snacks like granola bars, nuts, dried fruit, crackers, and sandwiches.**
* **Step 3: Pack snacks in resealable bags or containers to keep them fresh.**
* **Step 4: Be mindful of any food restrictions in your destination country.**
* **Step 5: Pack a variety of snacks to cater to different cravings.**
Entertainment Options: Banish Boredom From the Skies
Now that you’re prepared, let’s dive into the myriad of activities you can enjoy on a plane:
* **Watch Movies and TV Shows:** This is a classic for a reason. Catch up on your favorite shows or discover new movies.
* **Step 1: Download movies and TV shows from your preferred streaming service (Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu).**
* **Step 2: Ensure your device is fully charged and bring headphones.**
* **Step 3: Utilize the in-flight entertainment system, if available.**
* **Step 4: Consider the length of your flight when choosing your entertainment.** Opt for longer movies or TV series for longer flights.
* **Step 5: Download a variety of genres to cater to your mood.**
* **Read a Book:** Immerse yourself in a captivating novel or catch up on some non-fiction reading.
* **Step 1: Choose a book that you’re genuinely interested in.**
* **Step 2: Download an ebook to your e-reader or tablet, or bring a physical book.**
* **Step 3: Consider the lighting on the plane and adjust your reading accordingly.**
* **Step 4: Use a bookmark to keep your place.**
* **Step 5: Avoid reading in situations that might cause motion sickness.**
* **Listen to Music or Podcasts:** Create a playlist of your favorite tunes or explore new podcasts.
* **Step 1: Create a playlist of your favorite music or download podcasts to your device.**
* **Step 2: Bring headphones or earbuds.**
* **Step 3: Consider noise-canceling headphones for a more immersive experience.**
* **Step 4: Explore different genres and artists to discover new favorites.**
* **Step 5: Download podcasts on topics that interest you, such as news, comedy, or storytelling.**
* **Play Games:** From puzzle games to strategy games, there are countless mobile games to keep you entertained.
* **Step 1: Download games to your phone or tablet before your flight.**
* **Step 2: Choose games that don’t require an internet connection.**
* **Step 3: Consider games that are easy to pick up and play, such as puzzle games or card games.**
* **Step 4: Be mindful of your battery life.**
* **Step 5: Bring a portable charger if necessary.**
* **Work or Study:** Use the flight time to catch up on work emails, prepare for a presentation, or study for an exam.
* **Step 1: Bring your laptop or tablet and any necessary documents or materials.**
* **Step 2: Utilize the in-flight Wi-Fi, if available (but be aware it can be unreliable and expensive).**
* **Step 3: Focus on tasks that don’t require a lot of concentration, as the environment can be distracting.**
* **Step 4: Set realistic goals for what you can accomplish during the flight.**
* **Step 5: Take breaks to stretch and avoid eye strain.**
* **Write:** Journal your thoughts, work on a creative writing project, or simply make a to-do list.
* **Step 1: Bring a notebook and pen or pencil.**
* **Step 2: Consider using a laptop or tablet if you prefer to type.**
* **Step 3: Find a comfortable position and minimize distractions.**
* **Step 4: Set a timer to write for a specific amount of time.**
* **Step 5: Don’t worry about perfection, just focus on getting your thoughts down on paper.**
* **Learn a Language:** Download a language learning app and start practicing your vocabulary and grammar.
* **Step 1: Download a language learning app like Duolingo, Babbel, or Rosetta Stone.**
* **Step 2: Choose a language that you’re interested in learning.**
* **Step 3: Set aside a specific amount of time each day to practice.**
* **Step 4: Focus on learning basic vocabulary and grammar.**
* **Step 5: Use flashcards or other learning aids to help you memorize new words and phrases.**
* **Knit or Crochet:** This is a relaxing and productive way to pass the time. (Check airline regulations regarding knitting needles.)
* **Step 1: Choose a simple knitting or crochet project that you can easily work on in a confined space.**
* **Step 2: Bring your knitting needles or crochet hook and yarn.**
* **Step 3: Check airline regulations regarding the type and size of knitting needles allowed.**
* **Step 4: Find a comfortable position and minimize distractions.**
* **Step 5: Take breaks to stretch and avoid hand cramps.**
* **Draw or Sketch:** Unleash your inner artist and create some artwork.
* **Step 1: Bring a sketchbook or paper and pencils, pens, or colored pencils.**
* **Step 2: Consider bringing a small watercolor set and brush.**
* **Step 3: Find a comfortable position and minimize distractions.**
* **Step 4: Draw or sketch whatever inspires you, such as the view from the window or the people around you.**
* **Step 5: Don’t worry about perfection, just focus on having fun and expressing your creativity.**
* **Puzzle Books (Sudoku, Crosswords):** These are a great way to challenge your mind and pass the time.
* **Step 1: Purchase a puzzle book or download puzzle apps to your device.**
* **Step 2: Bring a pen or pencil.**
* **Step 3: Choose puzzles that are appropriate for your skill level.**
* **Step 4: Take breaks to avoid eye strain.**
* **Step 5: Consider bringing a variety of puzzle types to keep things interesting.**
* **Adult Coloring Books:** A surprisingly relaxing and meditative activity.
* **Step 1: Purchase an adult coloring book and colored pencils or markers.**
* **Step 2: Choose a design that you find appealing.**
* **Step 3: Find a comfortable position and minimize distractions.**
* **Step 4: Relax and let your creativity flow.**
* **Step 5: Don’t worry about staying within the lines, just focus on enjoying the process.**
Wellness and Relaxation: Prioritizing Comfort in the Air
Traveling can be stressful. Make use of your flight time to focus on your well-being:
* **Meditate or Practice Mindfulness:** Use a meditation app or simply focus on your breath to calm your mind.
* **Step 1: Download a meditation app like Headspace or Calm.**
* **Step 2: Find a quiet place on the plane (if possible) or use noise-canceling headphones.**
* **Step 3: Close your eyes and focus on your breath.**
* **Step 4: If your mind wanders, gently redirect your attention back to your breath.**
* **Step 5: Start with short meditations and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable.**
* **Stretch and Move:** Get up and walk around the cabin every few hours to improve circulation and prevent stiffness. (When the seatbelt sign is off, of course!)
* **Step 1: Get up and walk around the cabin every 1-2 hours.**
* **Step 2: Do simple stretches in your seat or in the aisle (when it’s safe to do so).**
* **Step 3: Rotate your ankles and wrists to improve circulation.**
* **Step 4: Gently stretch your neck and shoulders.**
* **Step 5: Avoid crossing your legs for extended periods of time.**
* **Sleep:** If you’re on a long flight, try to get some sleep to arrive feeling refreshed.
* **Step 1: Use a travel pillow, eye mask, and earplugs to create a comfortable sleep environment.**
* **Step 2: Recline your seat as far as possible (without disturbing the person behind you).**
* **Step 3: Avoid caffeine and alcohol before trying to sleep.**
* **Step 4: Try listening to calming music or a sleep story.**
* **Step 5: Let the flight attendant know you’d like to be woken up for meals.**
* **Deep Breathing Exercises:** Practice deep breathing to reduce stress and anxiety.
* **Step 1: Sit comfortably and close your eyes.**
* **Step 2: Inhale deeply through your nose, filling your lungs with air.**
* **Step 3: Hold your breath for a few seconds.**
* **Step 4: Exhale slowly through your mouth.**
* **Step 5: Repeat this process several times.**
* **Plan Your Trip:** Use the flight time to research your destination, plan your itinerary, and book accommodations or activities.
* **Step 1: Bring a guidebook or use your phone or tablet to research your destination.**
* **Step 2: Make a list of things you want to see and do.**
* **Step 3: Book accommodations, tours, and activities in advance.**
* **Step 4: Download maps and transportation information.**
* **Step 5: Share your itinerary with family and friends.**
Social Interaction (Optional): Connecting with Fellow Passengers
While some prefer solitude, others enjoy making new acquaintances:
* **Engage in Polite Conversation:** If you’re sitting next to someone who seems open to chatting, strike up a polite conversation. Be mindful of their cues and respect their desire for privacy.
* **Step 1: Start with a simple greeting and introduce yourself.**
* **Step 2: Ask open-ended questions to encourage conversation.**
* **Step 3: Listen attentively to what the other person has to say.**
* **Step 4: Be respectful of their opinions and beliefs.**
* **Step 5: Avoid controversial or personal topics.**
* **Play Card Games (with your travel companion or a willing neighbor):** A fun way to pass the time and socialize.
* **Step 1: Bring a deck of cards.**
* **Step 2: Choose a card game that is easy to learn and play in a confined space.**
* **Step 3: Ask your travel companion or a willing neighbor if they’d like to play.**
* **Step 4: Be respectful of other passengers and keep the noise level down.**
* **Step 5: Have fun!**
Important Considerations and Etiquette
* **Respect Other Passengers:** Be mindful of your noise level, seat recline, and personal space.
* **Follow Airline Regulations:** Adhere to all safety instructions and guidelines provided by the airline.
* **Be Aware of Your Surroundings:** Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
* **Stay Hydrated:** Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
* **Be Patient:** Flights can be delayed or have unexpected issues. Practice patience and understanding.
Creative Ideas for Unexpected Delays
Even with the best planning, delays happen. Here are some creative ways to make the most of them:
* **People Watching:** Airports and planes are fascinating places to observe human behavior. Create stories about the people you see.
* **Learn Basic Phrases in the Local Language (if you’re arriving in a new country):** A great way to prepare for your arrival.
* **Write a Postcard (even if you don’t send it right away):** A tangible way to remember your journey.
* **Plan Your First Meal at Your Destination:** Get excited about the local cuisine.
* **Meditate on Gratitude:** Reflect on the positive aspects of your life and upcoming trip.
The Ultimate In-Flight Checklist
Before you board, double-check that you have these essentials:
* Charged Devices (phone, tablet, laptop)
* Downloaded Entertainment (movies, TV shows, music, podcasts, audiobooks)
* Comfort Essentials (noise-canceling headphones, eye mask, travel pillow, comfortable clothing)
* Hygiene Essentials (hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, lip balm, moisturizer)
* Empty Water Bottle
* Snacks
* Book or E-reader
* Notebook and Pen
* Any Necessary Work or Study Materials
* Medication (if needed)
Conclusion: Embrace the Journey
Flying doesn’t have to be a tedious experience. By following these tips and incorporating some creativity, you can transform your in-flight time into a productive, relaxing, or even enjoyable part of your journey. So, pack your bags, charge your devices, and get ready to take off on an adventure – both in the air and at your destination! Remember to adapt these suggestions to your personal preferences and enjoy the ride!