23+ Things to Do on a Plane (List)

What are some things to do on a plane?

There are many options.

Here are some ideas for things to do on a plane, organized under various headings:

1. Entertainment

Watch Movies or TV Shows: Make use of the in-flight entertainment system or bring your own device loaded with your favorite shows and movies.
Listen to Music or Podcasts: Create a playlist or download podcasts to enjoy during the flight.
Read a Book or E-Book: Bring a good book or download e-books to your tablet or e-reader. You can also read on your phone. You may or may not have access to in-flight Wi-Fi so consider pulling everything up ahead of time.
Play Video Games: Pack a portable gaming device or use your smartphone/tablet for gaming.

2. Productivity

Work on Your Laptop: Catch up on work, write reports, or prepare presentations.
Organize Digital Files: Use this time to clean up your email inbox or organize digital files.
Plan Your Trip: Review your travel itinerary, research places to visit, or book hotels and activities.

3. Relaxation

Meditate or Practice Breathing Exercises: Use apps or audio guides for meditation or relaxation.
Do Light Stretching: Perform simple stretches in your seat to stay comfortable.
Sleep: Bring a travel pillow and blanket to help you sleep better.

4. Socializing

Chat with Fellow Passengers: Strike up a conversation with your seatmates if they seem open to it.
Play Cards or Board Games: Bring small travel games to play with friends or family traveling with you. Some physical board games may be too big or cumbersome for the plane, so consider digital options.

5. Learning

Learn a New Language: Use language learning apps to practice a new language.
Listen to Educational Podcasts or Audiobooks: Expand your knowledge on various topics.
Do Crosswords or Puzzles: Keep your mind active with crossword puzzles or Sudoku.

6. Self-Care

Skincare Routine: Apply moisturizer or a face mask to keep your skin hydrated.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during the flight.
Eat Healthy Snacks: Bring or choose healthy snack options to maintain your energy levels.

7. Creative Activities

Journaling or Creative Writing: Use this time for reflection or to jot down creative ideas.
Sketching or Drawing: Bring a sketchbook to draw or doodle.
Knitting or Crocheting: A great way to pass the time and you might finish a project by the end of your flight.

8. Photography

Take Photos: Capture unique aerial views from the plane’s window.
Organize Photos on Your Device: Sort through and organize the photos on your smartphone or camera.

9. Personal Development

Set Goals: Reflect on personal or professional goals and make plans to achieve them.
Read Self-Help Books: Bring along a book that focuses on personal growth.
Practice Mindfulness: Use this time for self-reflection and mindfulness exercises.

10. Miscellaneous

Watch the Flight Map: Follow your flight’s progress on the screen.
Plan Your Next Trip: Start thinking about and researching your next vacation destination.
Listen to In-Flight Radio: Some airlines offer radio channels with various music genres.

11. Health and Wellness

Yoga or Seat Exercises: Do simple yoga poses or exercises that can be done in your seat.
Healthy Meal Planning: Use this time to plan out healthy meals for the week ahead.
Mental Health Apps: Engage in activities on mental health apps to relax and de-stress.

12. Networking and Professional Development

Read Industry-Related Materials: Stay updated with the latest trends in your profession.
Online Networking: Use the flight time to connect with professionals on LinkedIn or other platforms.
Attend Online Webinars or Workshops: If Wi-Fi is available, participate in online learning opportunities.

13. Cultural Enrichment

Watch Documentaries: Learn about different cultures and places through documentaries.
Read Travel Magazines or Guides: Get inspired for future travels by reading about various destinations.
Listen to World Music: Explore music from different countries and cultures.

14. Environmental Awareness

Learn About Sustainability: Read articles or watch content related to environmental conservation and sustainability.
Plan Eco-Friendly Activities: Use this time to research and plan eco-friendly activities for your trip.

15. Fashion and Style

Browse Fashion Magazines or Blogs: Stay updated with the latest fashion trends and styles.
Plan Outfits: Use this time to plan outfits for your trip or upcoming events.

16. Culinary Exploration

Read Cookbooks or Cooking Magazines: Get inspired with new recipes and cooking techniques.
Plan a Dinner Party or Menu: Use your flight time to plan an exciting menu for a future gathering.

17. Science and Technology

Read Science Journals or Articles: Keep up with the latest advancements in science and technology.
Explore Educational Apps: Use educational apps to learn about various scientific topics.

18. Arts and Crafts

Coloring or Adult Coloring Books: A relaxing way to pass the time.
Paper Crafts: Engage in origami or other paper crafts that are easy to manage in a small space.

19. History and Archaeology

Read History Books or Articles: Expand your knowledge about different historical periods and events.
Plan Visits to Historical Sites: Use this time to research and plan visits to historical sites at your destination.

20. Astronomy and Space Exploration

Star Gazing: If flying at night, enjoy looking at the stars and constellations.
Learn About Space: Read about space exploration and the latest news in astronomy.

21. Philosophy and Thought

Read Philosophical Texts: Delve into works by famous philosophers to stimulate your thinking.
Write Reflections or Essays: Reflect on philosophical questions and write down your thoughts.

22. Hobbies and Interests

Research New Hobbies: Use this time to explore potential new hobbies or interests.
Plan Projects Related to Your Hobbies: If you have a hobby like gardening, photography, etc., use the time to plan future projects.

23. Nature and Wildlife

Learn About Wildlife: Read about different species and ecosystems.
Plan Nature Excursions: If you’re heading to a destination rich in natural beauty, plan hikes or nature walks.

24. Community and Volunteering

Research Volunteering Opportunities: Look for ways to contribute to the community at your destination or back home.
Plan Community Events: Organize or plan community events or activities.

Conclusion

These activities can help make your flight more enjoyable and productive, turning travel time into an opportunity for relaxation, entertainment, personal growth, or productivity.