Ever since my birth, my parents have traveled around the world and took  my sister and me along for the ride. My longest airplane trip was from Melbourne, Australia, to Dallas, Texas, which took 18 and a half hours, including one layover of 2 hours.

Having explored every continent (except Antarctica), it is safe to say that  I am well-traveled and know how terrible long plane rides can be. So, in order to keep myself occupied during the trip, I begin to prepare at least two weeks before.

First, international and most domestic flights contain small TVs, which have a variety of cool movies and shows. It is important to refrain from watching newly released movies around this time because those movies will most likely be showing on the planes. It is also a smart idea to download a full season of a show that you have not seen. Airplanes have TV shows but not the their full seasons.

Second, I suggest downloading as much new music on whatever electronic devices you have and not listening to the songs until you are on the airplane.

However, listening to music or watching T.V shows and movies for a long time period gets tiring. If you like to draw or write, take some paper and pencils to entertain yourself that way.

Also, look online for the most popular books with the best reviews. If you haven’t read any of the books you saw, buy a book you think you will enjoy. Most books have a slow start, so it is a good idea to start reading before you travel. That way when the book starts to get good, you can save the best part for the plane ride.

Last, airplane food is terrible. You are allowed to take food onto the airplane as long as it is not fruit or meat products. Bring lots of snacks to eat when you get bored.

Hopefully these tips will help MHS students to make their long plane rides a little more exciting.