Delayed flights can be a downer. But since you can’t avoid them, it’s better to prepare for the worst. Instead of counting down the minutes, try one of these activities the next time you’re stuck in the airport.
Write on your journal
Are you stressed about the delay? Journaling can organize your thoughts and put your mind at ease. Writing down your feelings can relieve you of your anxieties and help you focus on the present.
If your return flight is delayed, write down your thoughts about your recent trip while they’re still fresh. Experts say writing by hand improves your memory. It forces you to put your thoughts in order, which leads to deeper processing and retention.
Recap the discoveries and connections you’ve made during the trip. By reflecting on your experience, you’ll get to appreciate the journey even more and understand how it has changed you.
Create a detailed plan for your trip
If your flight gets delayed before you start your trip, use the extra time to finalize your itinerary. Research about free-entry attractions, restaurants you want to try, and things to do once you land.
A detailed plan will make your vacation flow smoothly. It allows you to maximize your time, prioritize your wants, and manage your expenses.
Relax in a lounge
A great way to kill time is to rest your mind and body. Most airline lounges nowadays offer cozy seating, work and charging stations, and free food and beverages. You can even choose from several in-house services such as spa treatments and massage chairs. Not all services are free, so be prepared for additional costs.
Depending on how much spare time you have, you can also take advantage of airport accommodations to catch up on sleep. Several airports like Singapore’s Changi airport offer comfortable cabins for transit passengers on the go. Just make sure to set the alarm so that you don’t miss your boarding time.
Work on your reading list
Reading is hands down one of the best ways to pass the time. It builds vocabulary and even prevents age-related cognitive decline.
There’s no better time to catch up on that book you’ve been dying to read. If you forgot to pack a book, most airports have free magazine stands where you can pick up free reading material.
Complete a puzzle book
Puzzle books are filled with crosswords, Sodoku, brainteasers, and mazes that can give you serious brain activity. These games encourage you to make predictions and test options, which can help sharpen your focus and memory and problem-solving skills. Solving a puzzle keeps your mind busy and distracts you from your current situation. You can even turn it into a family activity and see who can finish the most puzzles before the flight.
Most airport bookstores sell puzzle books, so don’t worry if you forgot to pack one. All you need is a pencil and a comfortable seat, and you’re all set.
Whether it’s a flight delay or a long layover, traveling involves spending a lot of idle time at the airport. Instead of wasting all those hours doing nothing, use the time to rest or be productive. With a little resourcefulness and patience, you won’t even notice the hours pass by.