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Things to Do on a Long Flight: 10 Smart (and Fun) Ways to Pass the Time

If you're feeling anxious, overstimulated, or simply burned out, these hours can be a quiet reset. Instead of doomscrolling, try something gentler: simple games like Solitaire

Hours at the airport, between layovers, delays, and endless queues, can quickly turn excitement into exhaustion. Once the novelty of duty-free wears off, you’re left scrolling aimlessly, fighting off boredom and fatigue. But those in-between hours don’t have to be a drag. With a little intention, they can become a pocket of time to reset, reconnect, or simply relax. Whether you’re stuck in a long layover or gearing up for a red-eye, here’s how to make the most of it with the best things to do on a long flight.

10 Best Things to Do on a Long Flight

1. Read a Book You've Been Meaning to Start

Travel time is the perfect excuse to unplug and finally crack open that novel that's been gathering dust. If you're not into fiction, download articles or a magazine before boarding; even better, bring a small paperback or your Kindle so you don’t rely on your phone.

2. Play a Relaxing Game

If you’re trying to avoid screen fatigue but still want light entertainment, card games like Solitaire are perfect. Opt for offline versions or those with stories built in, like solitaire with a story, to keep things simple, screen-friendly, and mentally soothing. It’s also one of the most satisfying fun things to do at the airport without burning through battery life.

3. Make That Call You've Been Putting Off

No more “I’ll call you soon” messages left hanging. While waiting for your flight, use the time to genuinely reconnect with loved ones. You’ve got a chair, a moment to spare, and (with luck) decent signal. It's the perfect chance for a warm voice and a grounding chat. And if pre-flight jitters are creeping in, there’s nothing more calming than hearing from someone who knows just how to settle your nerves.

4. Stretch or Walk Around the Terminal

Sitting for hours isn’t exactly ideal, especially before a long flight. Luckily, most airports have spacious walkways perfect for stretching your legs. A few laps around the gates can do wonders for your circulation and energy levels. And if you’re looking for a more leisurely stroll, wandering through the duty-free shops adds a bit of entertainment while still keeping you moving. It’s a simple way to stay active and pass the time without even breaking a sweat.

5. Download a Meditation App

Pop in your headphones, close your eyes, and take a moment for yourself. Apps like Calm and Headspace offer quick, airport-friendly meditations designed to ease tension and settle your mind before takeoff. Flying can be stressful and draining, but just five minutes of guided breathing can help you feel grounded and ready for the journey ahead.

6. Organize Your Photo Gallery

Delete duplicates, create albums, and back up your photos to the cloud; long flights are the perfect time for this oddly satisfying task. It’s productive without being mentally taxing, and scrolling through old memories can fill the hours while giving you a few good laughs (and maybe even a dose of nostalgia) along the way.

7. Watch That Movie or Show Everyone’s Talking About

In-flight entertainment has come a long way, but just in case, it’s smart to download a few favourites in advance. With countless platforms to choose from, you can dive into a gripping documentary, indulge in a rom-com, or finally start that true crime series you’ve been eyeing. Whatever you choose, it's guaranteed to keep your mind occupied for a few hours and make the time fly by.

8. Journal or Reflect

Put pen to paper—or thumb to notes app—and let your thoughts spill. Whether it’s travel plans, dreams, gratitude lists, or simple reflections, writing can be grounding amidst the chaos of transit. If it’s your first time travelling, if you’re alone, anxious, thrilled, or somewhere in between, give those feelings a space to land. Journaling mid-journey isn’t just a pastime; it’s a quiet form of therapy that brings clarity and calm when everything else feels in motion.

9. Plan the First Day of Your Trip

Use the wait to fine-tune your travel plans, research local hidden gems, must-try dishes, or map out your itinerary. A bit of planning now means smoother days ahead. You could even look into off-the-beaten-path spots that aren’t packed with tourists. Check how to get from the airport to your hotel, explore public transport options, or find out which café near your stay serves the best coffee. A little prep goes a long way once you land.

10. People-Watch (The Classic)

There’s a reason people-watching never goes out of style. Sure, it’s tempting to scroll through your phone, but airports are alive with emotion; hellos, goodbyes, reunions, nerves, excitement. Everyone’s headed somewhere, and every face holds a story. Let your imagination wander: invent backstories, guess destinations, or simply take in the quiet rhythm of travel. And who knows, you might just strike up a conversation with someone heading the same way, turning a layover into an unexpected connection. Airports are unpredictable like that.

Fun Things to Do at the Airport

If you’re still grounded, have ticked off every item above, and the hours are dragging like days, don’t resign yourself to aimless wandering through the terminal in search of purpose. Instead, turn to these fun things to do in an airport; they might just save your sanity and make the wait feel like part of the adventure.

A Final Word on Screens, Rest and Solitude

Long flights and layovers aren’t just inconvenient, they’re rare moments to disconnect from the chaos of everyday life. If you're feeling anxious, overstimulated, or simply burned out, these hours can be a quiet reset. Instead of doomscrolling, try something gentler: simple games like Solitaire with a story offer just enough engagement to soothe the mind without overstimulating it. They're screen-light, calming, and familiar, like a soft mental buffer. So next time you’re searching for things to do at the airport or ways to stay grounded mid-flight, remember: rest is a form of productivity, too.

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