The airport lounge is basically modern humanity’s limbo, and it’s basically no one’s favorite part of their vacation, but you know what? We should stop letting out flight lounge time stat tour trips off on a dull note and make it fun instead! Here’s how:
- Sketching Your Surroundings
Got a pencil and a back of an old boarding pass? Great! You have everything you need to start sketching. You might not think the flight lounge is the source of much drawing inspiration, but think about it; there are tons of interesting people from all overt the world waiting around just like you. Pick some of them who have characterful faces, and get scribbling!
- Embark on a Literary Adventure
Delve into an e-book or audiobook from your digital library. Opting for digital versions not only saves paper but also ensures you’re never at a loss for entertainment options. Whether it’s the latest thriller or a self-help guide, losing yourself in a good book can make time fly faster than the planes on the runway.
- Unleash the Mahjong Master Within
Why not play a little Mahjong? This classic game, which requires strategy and a bit of luck, is a perfect way to sharpen your mind while killing time. You don’t need the physical tiles to enjoy this game—several apps allow you to play digitally (saving those precious resources). Challenge yourself with different levels or invite fellow lounge lizards for a quick tournament. It’s a social and engaging way to make new friends or perhaps gently crush your travel companions in friendly competition.
- Practice Mindfulness Meditation
Airports aren’t exactly zen gardens, but you can find your inner peace by practicing mindfulness meditation. Find a quiet corner, pop in your earphones, and listen to a guided meditation. There are plenty of free apps that can help you relax and even feel rejuvenated—your fellow passengers will wonder at your Buddha-like calm during the eighth announcement of your flight’s delay.
- Write Postcards or Journal Entries
If you’re feeling old school, why not pen a few postcards? Sure, you could argue that emails are more eco-friendly, but if you opt for postcards made from recycled materials, you’re still in the green. Alternatively, journaling your travel experiences in a small, sustainably-sourced notebook can be a great way to reflect and pass the time. Plus, you’re creating a keepsake that’s much more personal than a souvenir shop trinket.
- Stretch It Out
Long flights and longer layovers don’t have to mean cramps and stiff joints. Get up and get moving! Look for a quiet spot and do some gentle stretches or yoga poses. Not only is this good for your body, but a little physical activity can also boost your mood and energy levels. Plus, it’s a free activity that doesn’t consume anything but calories!
- People Watch With a Twist
People watching is an airport lounge classic. Take it up a notch by creating backstories for the people you see. Why is that man in a hurry? Is he a spy, or maybe an eccentric billionaire who’s late for his private jet? What about the woman with the oversized hat and the poodle? Could she be a famous actress in disguise? Let your imagination run wild—you might even come up with a story idea for your next novel or screenplay.
- Plan Your Adventures
Got your smartphone or tablet? Use your wait to research and plan some fun activities for your destination. Look up local conservation efforts you can support, eco-tours, or farm-to-table restaurants, for example. This is a great way to ensure that your travel is not only enjoyable but also kind to our planet.
- Learn a Few Words of the Local Language
If you’re heading to a place where a different language is spoken, why not use this downtime to learn a few key phrases? Apps like Duolingo make it easy and fun, and it’s a wonderful way to show respect for the local culture. Plus, being able to say “Where’s the bathroom?” in another language can be a real lifesaver!
- Digital Detox Challenges
Challenge yourself to a digital detox while waiting. Turn off your electronic devices and engage in non-digital activities. Maybe start a conversation with a fellow traveler, dive into a crossword puzzle from a newspaper, or simply observe your surroundings and jot down interesting observations. This not only reduces energy consumption but also enhances your personal experience by connecting more deeply with your environment.
- Participate in an Airport Scavenger Hunt
Create your own fun scavenger hunt that can be played solo or with travel companions. Make a list of common and unusual things you might find in an airport—from a specific airline logo to someone wearing a vacation hat. This not only makes the time fly but also encourages you to notice details you might usually overlook, making your wait more interactive and enjoyable.
- Create Great Travel Snacks
Instead of buying overpriced pre-packaged snacks, bring along some homemade treats packed in reusable containers. Before your trip, prepare snacks like mixed nuts, fruits, or homemade granola bars. This not only cuts down on plastic waste but ensures you have healthier snack options on hand.
- Airport Lounge Quiz
If you are flying with friends or family, then before you set off on your trip, make some flashcards with quiz questions, and then you can spend your time in the lounge having your own mini quiz show, Be sure to bring along a little prize for the winner, and you’ll have so much fun. Plus points if the quiz is about your destination.
- Knit or Crochet
If you’re a crafter, or you’re just looking to learn a new skill, then why not bring along some yarn and knitting needles or crochet hooks? You’ll be so absorbed in ensuring that you make every stitch that the time will fly by, and who knows? You might even have a fully-fledged blanket to bring back with you on the plane!
It used to be the case that your time in the flight lounge was an annoying thing you had to get through in order to enjoy your vacation, but as you can see, it really doesn’t have to be like that, not now that you have tons of fun things to do to keep the boredom at bay! Make your lounge time a fun part of your trip!
