Reading or completing puzzles is a traditional way of occupying yourself while traveling. A 2008 study by the National Endowment for the Arts found that 50.2 percent of Americans – 112.8 million people – enjoyed reading and traveling is a good opportunity to spend time with a book, newspaper or magazine. The mental involvement required to complete a puzzle like a crossword, word search or a sudoku puzzle will also help pass the time.
Depending on the mode of transport you’re traveling on, you may be able to spend some time exercising. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend doing some light exercise during air travel to reduce your chances of developing deep vein thrombosis. Walk around for a few minutes if you can, or if you’re confined to a seat, exercise your legs by lifting and lowering your heels and tightening and releasing the muscles in your legs.
Some professionals have to travel a lot for work, therefore you can make use of your traveling time to get some work done. Portable computers and other devices mean that you can keep up to date with emails, write presentations or other documents while you’re on the move. Many bus and railway stations provide Wi-Fi access, while some trains also offer the service. You'll be able to access the Internet on many flights, whenever the aircraft is at an altitude of 10,000 feet or higher. Check with your airline if you'd like to make use of this service.
Portable devices mean that you can take your music with you wherever you go or even watch movies and television programs while you’re in transit. The ability to watch movies may be particularly useful if you’re traveling with kids. You can use these devices at any time if you’re traveling by car, bus or train, but if you’re traveling by air you’ll have to keep the device switched off at the beginning and end of the flight. These devices emit electro-magnetic energy just by being switched on, according to the Air Transport Association, meaning they have the potential to interfere with the plane’s instruments.
