A Guide to Staying Entertained on Long Journeys

Traveling can be a wonderful experience, but it can also be a long and tedious one. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. With the right activities and mindset, you can enjoy your journey just as much as your destination. Here are ten ways to stay entertained and make the most out of a long trip.

1. Bring a Good Book

Reading is a great way to pass the time during a journey. It’s a chance to disconnect from the world and immerse yourself in a good story. Pack a book that you’ve been wanting to read for a while, or browse the bestsellers list for new ideas. If you’re not sure where to start, consider your interests and choose a book in a related genre you haven’t tried before. Who knows, you might discover a new favorite author.

2. Download a Podcast

If you prefer to listen rather than read, a podcast can be a great option. There are thousands of podcasts out there, on an endless range of topics. From true crime to pop culture, there’s something for everyone. You can listen to a podcast directly from your phone or tablet, or download episodes beforehand to save data. You can also choose the length of the episode depending on how long your journey will be. Just make sure to bring earbuds, so you’re considerate of any fellow travelers and they are considerate of you.

3. Play a Game

If you’re traveling with friends, family, or even alone, playing games is a great way to break the monotony of a journey. Classic games like cards, chess, or checkers are easy to pack and can provide hours of entertainment. Bring a few different games to choose from or pick your favorite game and perfect your strategy. If you choose to play by yourself, Sudoku or crossword puzzles are fantastic brain teasers, and they can help you maintain focus and stay alert.

4. Listen to Music

Music can be a fantastic way to relax and set the tone for an enjoyable journey. It can also stimulate or lift your mood, depending on the genre. So, make a playlist tailored to your music taste and preferences or explore new genres or artists you have never heard of before. Listen out for recommendations from your fellow passengers, or even consider creating a collaborative playlist together to discover new music together.

5. Watch a Movie

If the journey is long and you’re traveling by airplane or train, then in-flight entertainment can be a great way to kill some time. Nowadays, most flights come with a variety of movies or tv-shows to choose from, which usually vary from country to country or airline to airline giving you a wide range of options. Otherwise, you can download a few movies or series, so you are not at the mercy of the flight attendant’s pickings. Just remember to bring your headphones or earbuds, so you’re not disturbing your fellow travelers.

6. Start a Journal

Long journeys can be a rare opportunity to reflect on thoughts, ideas, and make new discoveries about yourself. Keeping a journal allows you to do just that. So, dig that fancy pen you received as a birthday present and start writing down your thoughts and experiences. Write about what excites you for this trip, what you are grateful for, and what you hope to get out of your experience. Write about what you see, feel, and think. You’ll be surprised how therapeutic and relaxing it can be.

7. Take a Nap

Traveling can be exhausting, and if you’re jet-lagged, it’s essential to rest your body and calibrate your biological clock. So take advantage of the journey’s downtime to take a nap. Use a comfortable neck pillow or a blanket to keep you warm in cold air-conditioning, and forget everything else. Allow your mind to drift off, relax your body, and recharge your batteries to arrive at your destination feeling fresh and energized.

8. Learn a Language

Part of the fun of traveling is discovering new cultures and connecting with locals. Learning a few basic phrases in their language is not only polite but also a fantastic way of understanding the people and their culture. So, during your journey, download a language app or buy a phrasebook and start practicing your pronunciation. French, Spanish, Japanese, Mandarin, Italian, and Arabic are just a few of the many fascinating languages that exist. So, take your pick, and you’ll be amazed at how much you learn in just a few hours.

9. Plan Your Itinerary

If you’re traveling for leisure, use your journey to plan your itinerary. Research the exciting restaurants, museums, landmarks, and activities you’d like to experience, and create a rough schedule. This will allow you to maximize the time you have in your destination and eliminate the hassle of finding activities on the spot.

10. Strike Up a Conversation

While a long journey may sound daunting, it’s also a fantastic opportunity to meet new people and share unforgettable stories. So, strike up a conversation with your fellow passengers, but remember that some may not be in the mood to chat. Respect their boundaries, be polite and engaging, and get to know them. Who knows, you could make a friend for life or stumble upon a new perspective on life.