by Scott Hayden

Created on: May 26, 2009   Last Updated: December 03, 2010

Unless you're sitting in first class, a long flight will be somewhat tedious and uncomfortable. A trip that spans multiple time zones will be a good chance to get some sleep and you can bring some pills that will make you drowsy. Onboard entertainment, reading and talking to your fellow passengers can whittle away the hours. 

Before your flight departs pick up a couple of books about topics that interest you, preferably ones you've never read before. It's a tried and true method to pass the time. Buy a few of those inexpensive crossword/sudoku puzzles too and put them in your carry on bag. A deck of cards can be handy. If they are keen to play the people on either side of you might know a few games.

Laptops and portable DVD players can be used to play movies and music. Sometimes the films shown on the plane will not be to your liking so these devices would be great to have. Make sure to bring headphones so the people around you won't be disturbed. You can easily spend four to five hours watching the latest movies or catching up on some work.

On the plane you can get a collection of music but you may not find anything that appeals to you. Also, on some airlines, those headphones that the flight attendants distribute to the passengers are not free. They can cost anywhere between $3–5 and are not the best quality. Bring your iPod or MP3 with your own headphones and groove to the songs that you love.

Try to get some rest before you arrive at your destination. You're not on a bus or subway so you don't have to worry about missing your stop. If you can't fall asleep then take a couple of pills that will make you sleepy. A mask is ideal to shield your eyes from the light coming through the windows that some passengers neglect to close. If you're really lucky the seats next to you will be empty and you can lie down. By the time you wake up several hours will have passed, and once the flight lands you'll be refreshed. It's better to feel that way rather than disoriented and exhausted.

If you're feeling brave you can start a conversation with the man/woman sitting next to you. Be friendly and chatty but watch the signals you get from that person. If it's made clear that he/she is not in the mood to talk then it's best to take the hint. On the other hand, if your neighbor would also like to talk then you never know. That person just might be one of the most interesting individuals you'll ever encounter. Lasting friendships can be the byproduct of random conversations, and they pass the time.

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