When you’re heading out on long travel, the commute can often be one of the most challenging parts. Whether that’s a long flight, a train journey, or simply waiting for transport, the key is making the most of your time.
With a few engaging activities on hand, you can transform these hours into opportunities for creativity, entertainment, or relaxation.
Continue reading to learn how to transform a tiresome commute into a productive or enjoyable experience. That way, you’ll pass the time with ease.
CONTENTS—In this article, you will learn how to pass the time on long travel commutes, including:
How To Pass the Time on a Long Travel Commute
Anyone who loves to travel knows that waiting is inevitable.
Whether it’s waiting a couple of hours before a flight departs, until your hotel room is ready, or passing time during road trips, rail, or plane—waiting is part of the journey. And sometimes, it’s just about waiting for the moment you can finally head home.
This downtime can even be charming at times. A train ride through the English countryside or switching driving duties on a road trip can feel inspiring, albeit a little tiring.
However, frequent travelers will agree that this waiting time, though not entirely wasted, can lose its appeal after the umpteenth trip through an airport.
To make the most of long stretches in transit—especially when you’re not behind the wheel—having a few activities lined up can make all the difference.
Here are some of the best ways to pass the time while traveling.
1. Long-Form Audiobooks
As children, having a story read to you is one of the most soothing experiences. But as adults, we rarely ask our friends to do the same.
Thankfully, you can look to audiobooks, which are often read by engaging professional actors.
Your story choice doesn’t have to be anything super highbrow. Perhaps you just want to dive into an easygoing mystery or a fantasy world that’ll help you forget about the stiff seat and limited legroom you’re experiencing.
Or, you can listen to an audiobook set in your travel destinations. For instance, listening to Anne of Green Gables is perfect for a long drive to Prince Edward Island.
The real advantage of long-form audiobooks during a commute is that they help the time pass more quickly than you might anticipate.
Moreover, you don’t have to keep an eye on a screen while you’re entertained along the way.
2. History Podcasts
History and world podcasts can be another wonderful relief from travel commutes. They help you learn more about the place you’re going or just came back from.
Let’s say you’re traveling to England. Learning the history of the Anglo-Saxons or the impact of the Roman Empire on the British Isles can help you appreciate the ruins you’ll soon be exploring.
Better yet, these podcasts are free and often have multiple episodes per show. You can pick what you want and easily change it if you’re getting bored without any investment.
Having that extra context can make you feel history as a living thing, not just an academic exercise you’ll be tested on later. You’ll also be more likely to gain a deeper understanding of the historic attractions you visit, enriching your travels.
Related: 5 Best Historical Places in Europe to Visit if You’re a History Buff
3. Crosswords & Word Games
Listening to content can be great, but sometimes you want to be a little more engaged. Word games strike a perfect balance between passive and active engagement.
For example, a crossword puzzle and games like Wordle can engage your mind on long travel by thinking through definitions or words and their construction and spelling. These games are easy to pause and resume at your convenience.
Whether you work on paper, download an app, or bookmark a website that works offline, you don’t have to worry about your WiFi connection to play.
4. Mindfulness & Meditation
Travel can be stressful, and long commutes tend to heighten that stress.
Incorporating mindfulness or meditation into your journey can help you stay calm, centered, and refreshed, even during delays or extended transit times.
You’ll find plenty of apps that serve up guided meditation sessions or breathing exercises. You can also try a simple mindfulness practice, focusing on your breath or your surroundings.
Not only does this help pass the time, but it also reduces travel fatigue and prepares you to fully enjoy your destination.
Related: Mindful Traveler: 3 Easy Steps To A Great Travel Mindset
5. Pulpy, Fun Paperbacks
If you’re more of a reader but don’t want to lug around a heavy hardback book, then picking up a pulpy, fun paperback can be your travel buddy.
They call them “airport novels” (or sometimes “beach reads”) for a reason: because they’re easy to read, light but compelling, and great fun.
The point is, you don’t need to choose a classic or life-changing read, nor a self-help book that makes you question your current self.
Go for a novel that lets you sink into a good story. Crime, romance, and Westerns are a good fit for passing the time.
Related: Top 8 Books for Wanderlust: Fiction Reads for Travel Lovers
6. TV Shows & Movie Streaming
If you prefer watching over reading, movie passes for streaming services can be a solid way to pass the time, and usually available on flights of a certain distance.
Or if you’d rather watch movies or shows on your smartphone, you can download a couple of films or episodes before you leave. Then, you won’t have to deal with Wi-Fi issues on the go.
Since travel is all about the thrill of discoveries, it can be a nice chance to watch something you’ve never seen before. That might involve a brand new thriller or something a little more calm, depending on your tastes.
Like the audiobooks and history podcasts, you can also tailor the content to your destination. For instance, if you’re heading to Tuscany, you might download the movie Under the Tuscan Sun to get in the right headspace.
Related: 7 Stunning Movie Destinations Around the World You Should Visit
7. Learning Language Tapes
Lastly, consider language learning tapes or apps that you can connect to your car speakers or headphones or download to your laptop to learn as you go.
You may just pick up a few phrases that help you the moment you touch down at your new destination. Simply being able to order an evening meal or talk to the hotel concierge about taking your bags to the room can be a big win!
Conversing in a destination’s native language keeps you engaged and more fully connect with the locals. And, while you’re learning on the commute, it can help you avoid falling asleep or being bored to tears during those long periods.
Related: How to Learn a Language on Your Own Using These 4 Easy Methods
Final Thoughts on Long Travel Commute Tips
Long travel commutes don’t need to feel like wasted time.
With the right activities, tools, and mindset, you can turn those hours of waiting into opportunities for creativity, relaxation, and productivity.
Whether you’re diving into a good book, trying new travel apps, or practicing mindfulness, your journey can become more enjoyable and less tedious.
The key is to prepare ahead and make the most of the time available. So next time you embark on a long trip, remember to plan a few activities and embrace the journey.
About Jackie Gately, editor-IN-CHIEF
I'm Jackie Gately, your travel confidante and the creative force behind Enjoy Travel Life, awarded the "Best Casual-Luxury Lifestyle Blog (USA)" in Travel and Tourism by LUXlife Magazine for four consecutive years. With 25 years of published expertise, I'm a seasoned writer, editor, and photographer curating inspiring travel guides and lifestyle tips for empty nesters. I hope to kindle your spirit of exploration, encouraging you to overcome obstacles and turn your dreams into reality. Learn to minimize your pre-travel angst and maximize the joy of exploration with insights from my experiences. Let's make every adventure a celebration of this exciting phase of life! Follow my social channels for more inspiration.
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