*Collaborative post*
For many of us, the routine of our everyday lives can feel monotonous. The dreary commute to work and the unpredictable British weather, are just two factors that can leave us yearning for a different experience. And lots of people turn to travelling in order to seek that out.
It offers a break from the norm, and a degree of freedom that doesn’t happen every day. It enables us to visit other countries, try new foods and immerse ourselves in unfamiliar cultures. All of which can be of huge benefit to us. But travelling comes with its drawbacks too – not least the long periods we sometimes spend moving from one place to another.
So, what can you do to while away those hours? Here are a few tips to help you.
Settle in for some screen time
Thanks to our devices, we have all manner of entertainment options at our fingertips. So, why not alleviate the boredom with a box set, film, podcast or audiobook? They can all be downloaded ahead of time so that you don’t have to worry about being somewhere with a reliable internet connection. Just don’t forget to pack your headphones!
Get your creative juices flowing
Of course, you don’t have to rely on a phone or tablet for your entertainment. And in fact, too much screen time can be detrimental to your health. Instead, why not unlock your creative side with some drawing or sketching? Or start a travel journal, where you can chronicle all the sights, sounds and experiences you take in along the way. Not only will it pass the time, but it’ll give you a record to look back on in the years to come.
Explore interactive games
Puzzles and quizzes are a good way to keep your brain active while you’re on the move with little else to do. There are plenty of word games you can play with friends – perfect for involving your travelling companions – or there are chance-based games like spin the roulette that can help to build the excitement on otherwise tiresome journeys.
Read a good book
Whether you prefer fantasy, autobiographies, crime fiction or anything else, a well-written book can transport you away from your surroundings and into another world. Although you might have to factor in how much space is taken up in your luggage, there’s something very satisfying about holding a physical book and turning the pages as the story unfolds. Reading while on the move can make some people feel queasy, but if your stomach is made of strong stuff then the old-fashioned written word is the perfect way to pass the time.