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1. Read a Captivating Book or eBook
One of the most classic and enjoyable ways to pass time during a flight is by diving into a good book or eBook. Whether you’re flying for just a couple of hours or embarking on a long-haul international journey, reading offers an immersive escape from the confines of the airplane cabin. A gripping novel, an inspiring biography, or even a well-written travel guide can keep your mind engaged and make the time fly by.
For those who prefer physical books, make sure to bring a lightweight paperback that fits easily into your carry-on. However, for frequent flyers or those who like variety, eReaders such as the Kindle or apps like Apple Books and Kindle on smartphones and tablets are fantastic alternatives. These platforms allow you to carry hundreds of books in one compact device, making it ideal for travelers looking to explore different genres or authors on a single trip.
Another great advantage of reading on a flight is the peace and quiet it offers. Unlike watching a movie or playing games, reading doesn’t require headphones or a screen with good visibility. This can be particularly beneficial during nighttime flights when the cabin is dim and others are sleeping. Just remember to bring a reading light or ensure your device is backlit if you’re flying at night.
Many airports now have bookstores with international bestsellers and trending titles in multiple languages. If you’re short on time before boarding, digital stores often have special deals on eBooks—some for as low as ¥300 (approximately $2.00 USD). Subscribing to services like Kindle Unlimited or Audible also gives you access to a broad library of titles for a flat monthly fee, often around ¥980 (about $6.50 USD).
Whether you’re a casual reader or a bookworm, reading during a flight can be both relaxing and enriching. It’s a wonderful way to immerse yourself in stories, gain knowledge, or simply enjoy some uninterrupted personal time. So, next time you’re packing for a flight, don’t forget to include your current read or load up your eReader with new content.
2. Play Games on Your Phone or Tablet
Playing games on your phone or tablet is a fantastic way to make time fly—literally. With countless game apps available for iOS and Android devices, there’s something for every type of traveler. Whether you prefer puzzles, strategy games, simulations, or fast-paced action, mobile games offer an engaging and portable form of entertainment that requires minimal setup.
Before your flight, be sure to download your favorite games while you still have Wi-Fi access. Many games, especially free-to-play titles, require an internet connection for full functionality. However, a growing number of mobile games now offer offline modes that are perfect for airplane use. Some popular offline options include Monument Valley, Alto’s Odyssey, Mini Metro, and Plague Inc.
Casual games like Sudoku, crossword puzzles, or matching games are ideal for short flights or quick breaks. For longer journeys, try diving into story-rich RPGs or time-management simulators that can keep you entertained for hours. Many of these titles are free to download, with optional in-app purchases starting from around ¥120 (approximately $0.80 USD). Premium games typically range from ¥300 to ¥1,200 ($2.00 to $8.00 USD), offering ad-free experiences and deeper content.
To maximize battery life, consider enabling airplane mode and lowering your screen brightness. You should also carry a portable charger or power bank in your personal item in case your device runs low on power mid-flight. Some airlines now offer in-seat USB charging, but it’s always good to be prepared.
Don’t forget about multiplayer options as well—some games allow you to play via Bluetooth or local connection, which is perfect if you’re traveling with a friend or family member. Games like Heads Up! or Spaceteam provide a fun, social experience even at 35,000 feet.
Gaming during a flight isn’t just a distraction; it can be a genuinely enjoyable part of your travel experience. From quick puzzle fixes to immersive adventures, mobile games help you unwind, pass time, and maybe even make that dreaded middle seat feel a little more bearable.
3. Try In-Flight Meditation or Relaxation Techniques
Flying can often be stressful, especially with long security lines, cramped seating, and changing time zones. That’s why practicing in-flight meditation or relaxation techniques is a wonderful way to make your journey more peaceful and refreshing. Even if you’ve never meditated before, a flight provides the perfect opportunity to try simple techniques that calm the mind and body.
Start with deep breathing exercises. Sit back in your seat, close your eyes, and take slow, deep breaths—in through your nose and out through your mouth. This helps lower your heart rate and reduce tension, especially during takeoff or turbulence. Just five to ten minutes of focused breathing can make a significant difference in how relaxed you feel.
Guided meditation apps like Calm, Headspace, and Insight Timer offer downloadable sessions that can be used offline. Many of these apps feature free content, but full access usually requires a subscription starting around ¥1,500 per month (about $10 USD). These sessions range from quick 3-minute stress relievers to longer, sleep-inducing meditations—perfect for winding down on a red-eye flight.
If you prefer not to use an app, try a simple body scan technique. Focus your attention on each part of your body, starting from your toes and moving upward. Notice any tension and gently release it. This method helps distract from any in-flight discomfort and brings awareness to how you’re physically feeling in the moment.
Progressive muscle relaxation is another effective option. Tense and then relax each muscle group one at a time, starting from your feet and working your way up. This can be done discreetly in your seat and helps reduce physical stiffness from sitting too long.
Some travelers also use aromatherapy with calming scents like lavender or chamomile, which are available in compact roll-on bottles for around ¥800–¥1,200 ($5–$8 USD). These can be applied to your wrists or neck before you settle in for meditation or sleep.
Incorporating meditation or relaxation into your flight routine not only helps pass the time but also improves your mental well-being. You’ll arrive at your destination feeling more balanced, clear-headed, and ready to take on whatever comes next. It’s a small effort with big benefits—especially at 35,000 feet.
4. Get Creative: Write, Sketch, or Journal
Flying provides a rare opportunity to disconnect from everyday distractions and immerse yourself in creative activities like writing, sketching, or journaling. Whether you’re sitting by the window with a scenic view of the clouds or nestled in the middle seat, expressing your thoughts and ideas is a powerful way to pass the time and reflect during your journey.
Journaling during a flight is a popular and therapeutic practice. You can write about your travel experiences, list future goals, reflect on recent events, or simply document your feelings in the moment. All you need is a small notebook and a pen, both of which can be easily tucked into your carry-on. Travel journals are also available online and in bookstores, ranging from ¥500 to ¥2,000 ($3.50 to $13 USD), often featuring prompts and maps to enhance the experience.
If writing isn’t your thing, sketching is a great alternative. The limited space in an airplane can actually encourage minimalist, focused drawing. You might capture the view from your window, doodle characters from your imagination, or even design your dream vacation destination. Compact sketchbooks and mechanical pencils are ideal for travel, and many airline tray tables provide just enough space to draw comfortably.
For digital creatives, tablets with stylus support like the iPad and Apple Pencil or budget-friendly alternatives such as the Wacom One are perfect companions for long flights. Apps like Procreate or Adobe Fresco let you create detailed illustrations or designs offline. If you’re using a paid app, you can expect costs around ¥1,200 to ¥2,000 ($8 to $13 USD), but many free versions are also available with plenty of features.
Writing a short story, planning your next blog post, composing poetry, or brainstorming ideas for a project can also help you feel productive while in transit. Without the pressure of internet connectivity, flights can offer a quiet, focused environment to get those creative juices flowing.
Embracing creativity during your flight not only helps pass the time—it can leave you feeling inspired, refreshed, and ready for whatever lies ahead at your destination. So next time you fly, consider packing a journal, sketchpad, or tablet alongside your usual travel essentials.
5. Learn Something New with Podcasts or Audiobooks
If you’re looking to use your flight time for something both relaxing and enriching, listening to podcasts or audiobooks is a fantastic option. With thousands of topics available—ranging from science and history to personal development and storytelling—you can turn your time in the sky into a mobile classroom or theater for your ears.
Podcasts are incredibly diverse and mostly free. Apps like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts allow you to download episodes in advance so you can listen without needing Wi-Fi. Whether you want to laugh, learn, or simply unwind, there’s a podcast for every mood. Some popular choices for travelers include Stuff You Should Know, The Daily, TED Talks Daily, and How I Built This.
Audiobooks offer a deeper dive into topics or narratives and are perfect for long flights. Platforms like Audible and Audiobook.jp provide extensive libraries of fiction, nonfiction, and language-learning books. Audible offers a monthly membership plan starting at around ¥1,500 (approximately $10 USD), which includes one free audiobook credit and access to a growing catalog of free titles.
Language learners can also benefit from audio learning tools. Download beginner-level lessons or immersive audio programs in languages like Spanish, French, or Japanese. This can be a fun and practical way to prepare for an international trip. Many language apps, such as Pimsleur and Duolingo, offer audio lessons that can be used offline, with subscriptions typically priced between ¥800 and ¥2,000 per month ($5 to $13 USD).
To enjoy your podcasts or audiobooks comfortably, be sure to pack quality headphones. Noise-canceling models are especially useful on planes to block out engine hum and surrounding chatter. If you’re sensitive to pressure or sound, investing in earphones designed for air travel might cost around ¥3,000 to ¥10,000 ($20 to $65 USD), but they can make a big difference in comfort.
Using your flight time to learn something new or enjoy a compelling story can leave you feeling inspired and mentally stimulated upon arrival. It’s an effortless way to entertain yourself while also gaining knowledge—proving that not all learning has to happen on the ground.
