How to Have Fun on a Long Airplane Flight

So you're on a 16-hour flight. Your iPod is out of juice, and the movies are less than Oscar-worthy. Aside from eating and sleeping, what can you do to entertain yourself? Here are a few suggestions!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Deck of cards

1. Be social. While many travelers prefer to keep to themselves, often you can make new friends on long-haul flights. Try to look nice and hang out by the galley for drinks when you think you spot someone worth chatting up.

2. Shop. Save your duty-free shopping for the flight and pick up gifts for family and friends. Makeup, skin-care and travel items are all good finds in-flight. Tip: Duty-free chocolate always tastes better. Just flip through the list of items, and fill out the request slip, and give it to a flight attendant. Your items will be waiting for you in the airport as you arrive.

3. Exercise. Okay, you won't be doing a cardio circuit, but head to the back of the plane or near the stairwell for extra room. There should be enough room to do squats, leg lifts, stretches and even some light weight work with travel weights or a piece of luggage. A 15-minute miniworkout every few hours will improve your well-being and decrease jet lag.

4. Play cards. Old school, low tech, cheap--cards are one of the best travel games I know. Spend hours with your partner or a new friend and see who can come up with the most creative wager!

Tips & Warnings

• Bring simple time diversions on long-haul flights. It might be tempting to do your taxes, but avoid it if you can so you arrive rested.
• Don't overeat or overdrink on a long-haul flight. You will regret it.