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1. Watch Movies and TV Shows You’ve Missed
One of the best ways to make time fly—literally—is by catching up on movies and TV series you’ve been meaning to watch. Most long-haul flights offer a wide selection of in-flight entertainment, including the latest Hollywood blockbusters, international films, documentaries, and popular TV episodes. Airlines such as Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and Qatar Airways are known for their extensive and regularly updated media libraries.
Before your trip, check your airline’s website or app to see what movies and shows are available. Some carriers even allow you to create a watchlist in advance. If you prefer watching your own content, download shows or movies onto your device from streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or Disney+. Just make sure your devices are fully charged and that you have noise-canceling headphones for a better experience.
In some cases, you can rent movies or buy shows through airline apps, sometimes for a small fee—usually around ¥500 to ¥1,000 (approx. $3.50 to $7.00 USD). This is especially convenient if your airline has limited free options or if you’re flying on a budget carrier.
Watching movies can help you relax, unwind, and even fall asleep more easily during a long flight. Whether you’re laughing at a comedy or getting lost in a gripping drama, screen time can be a great escape when you’re cruising 30,000 feet above the ground.
2. Dive into a Good Book or Audiobook
Long-haul flights offer the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in a captivating book or audiobook. With hours of uninterrupted time and few distractions, it’s one of the rare moments when you can truly lose yourself in a story. Whether you prefer fiction, non-fiction, self-help, or travel guides, bringing a book that matches your interests can transform your journey into a personal retreat.
For many travelers, physical books are still a comforting choice. Choose a paperback for easier packing and lighter weight. However, if you want to travel light, e-readers like the Kindle or Kobo are excellent alternatives. They allow you to carry an entire library in one slim device, with adjustable lighting perfect for dim cabin conditions.
Audiobooks are another great option, especially if you want to relax with your eyes closed or avoid straining your eyes in the dry airplane air. Apps like Audible, Libby (for library users), and Scribd offer a wide range of titles in English and other languages. Be sure to download your audiobooks before departure, as in-flight Wi-Fi is often slow or unavailable.
If you don’t already have a subscription, Audible offers a free trial that includes one or two free audiobooks, depending on your region. Some titles are also available for purchase without a subscription, typically ranging from ¥1,500 to ¥3,000 (about $10 to $20 USD), depending on the book’s popularity and length.
Books and audiobooks are more than just entertainment—they’re a way to relax, learn, or spark new ideas while you travel. Whether you’re exploring a fantasy world, listening to a motivational biography, or studying a new topic, the hours will pass faster, and your mind will stay engaged throughout the flight.
3. Plan Your Trip or Journal Your Thoughts
A long-haul flight is an excellent time to reflect and get organized—especially when you’re heading to an exciting destination. With hours of uninterrupted time, why not use this moment to plan the details of your trip or journal your thoughts and experiences? It’s a productive and fulfilling way to make the most of your flight.
Start by reviewing your itinerary. Use apps like Google Maps, TripIt, or Notion to outline your daily activities, bookmark restaurants and sights, and double-check hotel and transportation bookings. If you’re using a travel guidebook, mark pages or jot down key info. Organizing your plans in advance can reduce stress and help you feel more prepared upon arrival.
Journaling is another rewarding option. Whether you prefer handwritten notes in a travel journal or a digital diary on your tablet or phone, capturing your thoughts in the air can be a therapeutic experience. Write about your excitement for the trip, your expectations, or even the events leading up to your departure. You could also use this time to reflect on past travels or jot down creative ideas.
If you’re looking to keep a stylish or personalized travel journal, consider picking up a high-quality notebook before your flight. Prices vary depending on the brand and material, typically ranging from ¥1,000 to ¥3,000 (roughly $7 to $20 USD). Pens with smooth ink and a comfortable grip are also worth investing in for long writing sessions.
Whether you’re making to-do lists, setting travel goals, or simply writing about your thoughts, planning or journaling on a flight helps you stay grounded while you’re in the air. It’s a quiet, introspective activity that turns downtime into meaningful preparation or reflection.
4. Stretch, Walk, and Stay Hydrated
Spending hours in a confined airplane seat can take a toll on your body, so it’s important to make physical wellness part of your in-flight routine. Taking time to stretch, move around, and stay hydrated not only helps you feel more comfortable but can also prevent health issues like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and fatigue.
Every couple of hours, take a short walk down the aisle, even if it’s just to the restroom and back. Simple in-seat exercises, such as ankle rolls, shoulder shrugs, and neck tilts, can improve blood circulation and reduce stiffness. Some airlines even include short exercise videos in their in-flight entertainment system or magazines to guide you through gentle stretches.
Hydration is just as crucial. The air inside a plane is extremely dry, and dehydration can lead to headaches, dry skin, and increased jet lag symptoms. Drink water regularly throughout the flight, aiming for about 250 ml (roughly one cup) every hour. It’s wise to bring a reusable water bottle and fill it up after passing through airport security. Some international airports have filtered water stations for this purpose.
Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks, as they can dehydrate you further. Instead, opt for water, herbal tea, or electrolyte drinks. You can also bring hydration supplements or tablets, which are available in travel-sized packs. These usually cost around ¥500 to ¥1,200 (approximately $3.50 to $8.00 USD), and are easy to dissolve in a cup of water during your flight.
Caring for your body in the air makes a big difference in how you feel when you land. By staying active and hydrated, you’ll arrive at your destination more refreshed and ready to enjoy your trip—rather than needing to recover from the flight itself.
5. Try In-Flight Entertainment and Games
Airlines today offer far more than just movies and TV shows. In-flight entertainment systems are packed with a variety of games, music, podcasts, and even language learning programs to help pass the time and keep your mind engaged. Exploring these options can turn a long-haul flight into an enjoyable experience filled with fun and discovery.
Most seatback screens now include classic puzzle games like Sudoku, chess, and solitaire, as well as interactive video games. Some flights even have multiplayer options that allow you to compete with fellow passengers. These are great for stimulating your brain and making the hours go by faster.
Music lovers can enjoy curated playlists, full albums, and sometimes even meditation or sleep soundtracks to help them relax. Podcasts are another fantastic option—many airlines now feature popular episodes from different genres like true crime, comedy, history, and wellness. If you’re flying internationally, check out the language learning apps or lessons often included in the entertainment menu.
If the airline’s built-in selection feels limited, you can always bring your own entertainment. Many travelers download games to their smartphones or tablets before the flight. Mobile games like puzzle apps, word games, or offline RPGs can offer hours of entertainment without needing Wi-Fi. Consider purchasing a few premium games for added variety—many cost between ¥300 and ¥1,000 (around $2 to $7 USD) and are well worth the price for a smoother journey.
Taking full advantage of in-flight entertainment and games transforms your travel time into a mini digital retreat. Whether you’re solving puzzles, leveling up in a game, or laughing through a comedy podcast, these activities make your trip feel shorter and far more enjoyable.
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