Enjoying Books on Flights to Make the Most of Travel Time

Long flights can often feel like a test of patience. Whether you're traveling for business, leisure, or a holiday, the time spent on a plane can seem endless. But one of the best ways to make the most of that time is by diving into a good book. Reading on a flight provides not only entertainment but also a mental escape, allowing you to immerse yourself in another world while you soar across the skies.

The Joy of Escaping into a Story

Reading during a flight is an opportunity to fully engage with a story without the usual distractions of daily life. The confined space of the airplane allows you to focus entirely on the book at hand. There are no phone notifications, no emails to check, and no immediate responsibilities. It’s just you and the pages of your book.

In The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, the protagonist escapes into his imagination to cope with the mundanities of life. Similarly, reading while flying offers a mental escape, allowing you to break free from the confined space of the aircraft and journey into a world of adventure, romance, or mystery.

Ideal Genres for In-Flight Reading

Certain genres tend to work better than others when it comes to reading on a plane. Shorter novels, mysteries, or thrillers are great for keeping your attention, especially when you're only able to dedicate limited time between meals or announcements. A gripping thriller like Gone Girl or a quick-paced novel such as The Great Gatsby makes it easy to get absorbed without feeling overwhelmed.

On the other hand, a more thoughtful or complex genre like science fiction or historical fiction can also be a great choice, especially for longer flights. Books like The Martian by Andy Weir or The Book Thief by Markus Zusak transport readers to entirely new worlds, making them perfect for long-distance travel.

Why Reading Works Best for Flights

There’s something about the act of reading that fits perfectly with the experience of flying. Unlike watching a movie, which demands continuous attention to visual elements, reading allows you to engage your imagination, making it easier to get lost in the story. The quiet, somewhat isolated environment of the cabin makes reading the ideal in-flight activity.

The film Up in the Air beautifully explores themes of travel and solitude, and the protagonist, played by George Clooney, often uses his time in airports and planes to reflect, read, and mentally escape from his own reality. Like him, you too can take advantage of the solitude during a flight to fully immerse yourself in your reading material.

How to Choose the Right Book

When selecting a book for a flight, it’s helpful to pick something that aligns with the duration of your journey. For short-haul flights, you may want to opt for a book that’s easy to pick up and put down—something that fits into a few hours of reading. For longer flights, you may want to take along a book that requires a deeper level of engagement, allowing you to stay absorbed throughout the journey.

If you’re not sure where to start, consider reading a popular best-seller or a book you’ve been meaning to read for a while. A few examples might include The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern or Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens. Both offer immersive stories that can keep you engaged from takeoff to landing.

Creating the Perfect Reading Atmosphere

Airplanes are typically known for their noise and distractions, but with the right approach, you can create a cozy reading environment even while soaring at 30,000 feet. Noise-canceling headphones can help block out engine sounds and chatter from other passengers, making it easier to focus on your book. A comfy blanket or pillow can also enhance the experience, providing a sense of comfort and relaxation.

In the movie The Terminal, Tom Hanks’ character spends a lot of time waiting at the airport and reading. He shows us that with the right mindset, even in a chaotic or uncomfortable setting, reading can provide a small refuge of peace and concentration.

The Digital Book Dilemma

With the rise of e-books and audiobooks, reading during flights has become even more accessible. E-readers, such as a Kindle or tablet, offer the convenience of carrying multiple books without the weight. Audiobooks, too, can be a great option, especially during a flight when you may want to close your eyes or relax your body while still absorbing a story.

While digital books offer convenience, there’s something timeless about holding a physical book in your hands. The sensory experience of flipping through pages can add to the immersion, and it’s a nostalgic experience for many readers.

Conclusion

Reading books during flights is the perfect way to make the most of your travel time. Whether it’s diving into a fast-paced thriller, immersing yourself in a fantasy world, or simply losing yourself in a heartfelt novel, a good book can transform the time spent in the air into a rewarding experience. So, the next time you board a plane, pack your favorite book (or e-reader) and let the journey begin.