Travelling can be amazing, but let’s be real, the in-between bits can get boring fast. You’re stuck in transit, everything’s expensive, and you’ve got hours to kill. The good news? You don’t need loads of money or fancy gear to stay entertained. Here are some easy, fun things to do that won’t drain your wallet or your sanity, aka, how to entertain yourself while traveling.
Ways to Entertain Yourself While Traveling: Listen to Podcasts or Audiobooks
One of the easiest ways to pass time is by plugging in your headphones and getting lost in a good story. Download a couple of podcast episodes or an audiobook before your journey, and you’re sorted. There’s something comforting about zoning out and letting someone else do the talking, especially if you’re on a long ride with nothing much to look at.
If you’d rather use your vehicle’s audio, look for a few audiobooks that can be streamed via your cell phone. Additionally, I love listening to my favorite podcasts and playing catch-up on them to make the time fly by.
Take Random Photos Along the Way
You don’t need to be into photography to have fun with this. Just grab your phone and take pictures of things that catch your eye. It could be something weird at a rest stop, a funny road sign, or even just how your lunch looks. These little snapshots make great memories, and you’ll be glad you have them when you’re back home.
My daughter is all about analog these days and has an instant camera to take vintage-style photos with when we’re on the road. Not only is it a fun homage to road trips from decades ago, I love that she adds them to a scrapbook.
Ways to Entertain Yourself While Traveling: Play a Quick Puzzle Game
This is where a simple game like sudoku comes in handy. You can pick up a cheap puzzle book at almost any corner shop or download a free app before you set off. It’s low effort, doesn’t need Wi-Fi, and gives your brain a nice distraction when you’ve still got miles to go. Word searches, crosswords, and logic puzzles are also great options.
Write Things Down
You don’t have to be a “journal person” to do this. Just keep a small notebook in your bag and jot down random thoughts, things you notice, or even bits of conversation you overhear. It’s a nice way to stay present and you’ll probably end up with a few good stories by the end of your trip.
I’m going to be honest, here: I get some of my best ideas when I’m on the road and driving. I either ask my phone’s notepad to add them or ask my passenger to write them down for me.
Ways to Entertain Yourself While Traveling: Make a Travel Playlist
Before you head out, make a playlist just for the journey. Pick songs that get you in the mood, help you relax, or wake you up when you’re feeling groggy. Music can totally change how a boring train ride feels, and it makes the journey feel like part of the experience, not just something to suffer through.
Chat to Someone (Only If You Want To)
Sometimes the best entertainment is a quick chat with someone nearby. If the person next to you seems friendly, ask how their day’s going or where they’re headed. You might end up with a great conversation, a new friend, or at least a bit of company for a while.
Travel doesn’t have to mean staring out the window, counting lamp posts. A little planning and a few simple tools can turn downtime into something you truly enjoy.