Are you getting ready for a long bus ride and looking for ways to pass the time? Trust me, I’ve been there. It can be tough to stay entertained when you’re stuck in a cramped space for hours on end. But fear not, because there are actually a ton of fun and interesting things you can do to make the time fly by.
Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, these activities are sure to keep you engaged and make your journey more enjoyable. So if you’re looking for some inspiration, here are some ideas for fun things to do on a long bus ride.
Table of Contents
Listen to a podcast or audiobook
Listening to a podcast or audiobook is a fantastic way to pass the time and keep your mind engaged during a long bus ride. With so many options available, you’re sure to find something that interests you. Whether you’re into true crime, self-improvement, or fictional stories, there’s a podcast or audiobook out there for you.
One of the great things about podcasts and audiobooks is that they allow you to multi-task. You can listen while you do other things, like journaling, drawing, or even just looking out the window. And because they’re usually serialized, you can easily get hooked and look forward to the next episode or chapter.
If you’re new to podcasts, a good place to start is with a podcast app like Apple Podcasts or Spotify. These apps allow you to browse and discover new shows, and even save your favorites for later. You can also try searching for podcasts on specific topics that interest you, or ask your friends and family for recommendations.
As for audiobooks, you can find a wide selection on platforms like Audible or Scribd. These services often offer free trials, so you can try out a few books before committing to a subscription.
Watch a movie or tv show
Watching movies or TV shows is a classic way to pass the time during a long bus ride, and with today’s technology, it’s easier than ever to access your favorite content on the go. All you need is a device like a smartphone, tablet, or laptop, and a pair of headphones to enjoy your favorite shows without disturbing your fellow travelers.
One option is to download the content onto your device in advance. This way, you won’t need an internet connection to access the content, which can be handy if you’re traveling in a rural or remote area.
Another option is to subscribe to a streaming service like Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime. These platforms offer a wide selection of movies and TV shows, and you can often download content onto your device for offline viewing. This is a great way to stay caught up on your favorite shows or discover new ones while you’re on the go.
If you are looking for recommendations of what to watch, this list of all-time best travel shows is a great place to start.
Play a game
Playing games is a great way to pass the time and keep your mind active during a long bus ride. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, there are plenty of options to choose from.
If you’re traveling with a group, consider bringing along a portable board game or card game. Classic options like Monopoly, Scrabble, and Cards Against Humanity are always fun. Just make sure to pack everything you need in a small bag, and remember to be respectful of your fellow travelers if you’re playing a loud or disruptive game.
If you’re traveling solo, or if you prefer quieter games, you can bring a printable game like crosswords or sudoku. Or another thing you can do is try free online games that you can play on your phone or tablet. I am a fan of more classic online games such as Solitaire.
I recently tried out this online gaming platform that has a variety of different Solitaire games and other card games. Since I am a person of habit, I enjoy playing the original Solitaire game, however; I found that the Freecell version of the game kept me entertained too. This version has 4 free cells you can temporarily store cards, making the game a bit quicker to play.
Practice a new skill
Using a long bus ride as an opportunity to practice a new skill is a great way to stay engaged and keep your mind active. Whether you’re an experienced learner or a complete beginner, there are plenty of things you can do to improve a new skill while on the go.
One option is to bring a book or tutorial on a subject you’ve always wanted to learn. This could be a language, a musical instrument, or a new hobby like knitting or drawing. Use the time on the bus to work through the lessons or practice your new skills. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes or go slowly – the important thing is to keep learning and improving.
If you prefer a more interactive learning experience, consider bringing a video tutorial or online course. Many of these can be accessed through a smartphone or tablet, so you’ll have plenty of material to work with even if you don’t have an internet connection.
Another option is to find a learning app or website that offers interactive lessons on a variety of subjects. One of my go-to learning apps is Duolingo. I find it entertaining and quite useful to practice the language basics of the country I am traveling to.
Plan your next adventure
If you’re looking for a productive way to pass the time during a long bus ride, consider using the opportunity to research and plan your next adventure. Whether you’re planning a solo trip or a group vacation, there are plenty of things you can do to get started.
First, decide on a destination. This could be somewhere you’ve always wanted to visit, or a place you’ve been before but want to explore more deeply. Look up travel guides and websites to get a feel for the location, and make a list of must-see attractions and activities.
Next, research accommodation options. Look up hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals to find a place that fits your budget and preferences. Don’t forget to read reviews and compare prices to find the best deal.
Once you’ve got a place to stay, start looking into transportation options. If you’re flying, look up flights and compare prices across different airlines and travel dates. If you’re driving or taking public transportation, plan out your route and make any necessary reservations.
Finally, make a rough itinerary of the things you want to do and see. This will help you make the most of your time and ensure that you don’t miss out on any must-see attractions. Don’t worry about making everything super detailed, just jot down some rough ideas and leave room for flexibility.
I have a dedicated travel resources page that can be a great starting point for planning your next travel adventure.
What are your favorite things to do on a long bus ride? Let us know in the comments below.
