Flying can often feel like a long stretch of dead time, especially on long-haul flights. But what if you could live this endless period in an enjoyable, productive or even relaxing manner?
Thanks to the variety of apps available today, there is no reason why a plane ride should feel like a wasted experience. The right app, e.g., a coin identifier, can make all the difference.
So, what apps should you have on your phone before boarding your next flight? Here is our list of the top 5 apps to use on a plane.
1. Coin ID Scanner
Coin collectors often find themselves on the lookout for rare or unusual coins—e.g., while traveling or simply indulging their passion. But what if you could easily identify a coin from the comfort of your seat on the plane? Coin ID Scanner is an app to do just that. With it, you can scan coins using your phone’s camera, and it will instantly provide information about the coin: its historical background, minting year, and even its current value in the market.
Imagine that you have found a coin on your travels, but do not know anything about it. What if it turns out to be rare, valuable, or even an item of historical significance? Coin ID Scanner lets you solve that mystery with just a tap of your phone.
You simply scan the coin, and the app instantly analyzes it and pulls up a profile. It includes details such as the country of origin, mint year, collector’s value, and how the coin fits into its historical context.
However, the database, while extensive, does not cover every rare or extremely limited coin, so sometimes, you may not get the information you are looking for. But for most people, Coin ID Scanner will be that very tool to pass the time and enrich your collection on the go.
Pros:
Fast and easy coin identification.
Great for numismatists or casual collectors.
Offers historical context and pricing trends.
Cons:
Limited database for very rare or unique coins.
Does not work without an Internet connection.
2. Calm
Let us face it—flying can be stressful. It may be the anxiety of being in a confined space, the noise or the turbulence. Many people find themselves anxious during flights. But what if there was a way to calm your mind and ease your nerves while cruising at 30,000 feet? Calm will help you stay centered even when you are up in the air.
It is a meditation app and your portable sanctuary at the same time. You will get guided meditation sessions, sleep stories, breathing exercises, and soothing music. It helps you create a peaceful environment in the midst of a chaotic cabin. It is great for passengers who are nervous flyers, sleep-deprived travelers, or anyone who needs a break from the flight’s stress.
You can choose from various guided meditation sessions, e.g., ones focused on sleep, relaxation and anxiety relief. You can also listen to "Sleep Stories"—calming ones that are read by soothing voices—that are perfect for helping you relax and drift into slumber. The music and nature soundscapes are also an excellent way to drown out the noise of the plane and create a calm atmosphere that promotes rest.
However, it is not entirely free, unfortunately. To access the full library of content, you will need to subscribe. Additionally, some users have mentioned that the sleep stories can be a bit slow-paced for their liking.
Pros:
Helps reduce anxiety during flights.
Sleep stories are perfect for getting rest during long-haul flights.
Easy to use with a variety of options.
Cons:
Full access requires a subscription.
Some might find the sleep stories a bit slow-paced.
3. Netflix
Now, who does not love a good movie or show while traveling? With so much time to kill, a reliable entertainment source can make a flight feel like it is over in no time. Netflix is one of the best apps to have on your phone when flying, as it offers a big library of movies, TV shows, documentaries, and more. And the best part? You can download your favorites before the flight and watch them offline, no need for Wi-Fi!
You can choose action films, romantic comedies or the latest trending TV series. Simply open the app, browse through the content, and download what catches your eye. Once the flight takes off, you can start watching your favorite show or movie without worrying about buffering or internet connectivity.
One of the best features of Netflix is its personalized recommendations. The more you watch, the better the app gets at suggesting content based on your interests.
However, there are a few downsides. You will need a Netflix subscription, which, for some, may not be good enough. Additionally, not all content is available for offline viewing, as some films and episodes have download restrictions due to licensing agreements.
Pros:
A lot of movies, shows and documentaries.
Offline viewing for long flights.
Personalized recommendations based on your watch history.
Cons:
Requires a subscription.
Limited download capacity for some content.
4. Google Keep
Google Keep is an app that helps you keep track of everything on your mind, without the hassle of carrying a pen and notebook.
With it, you can quickly create notes, to-do lists, reminders, and even voice memos—all in one convenient app. It is perfect for travelers who like to be organized but do not want to deal with bulky notebooks or paper. Plus, the app syncs with your Google account, so you can access your notes across multiple devices. This means whether you are on your phone or laptop, your to-do list is always in your hands.
One of the most useful features of Google Keep is its ability to organize your thoughts in various formats. You can add photos, voice recordings and even drawings to your notes.
However, it is not without its cons. For users who need more advanced features like complex text formatting or collaboration tools, other apps like Evernote might be more appropriate. But for quick, easy note-taking, Google Keep is a good choice.
Pros:
Fast and easy note-taking.
Syncs across multiple devices.
Versatile, allowing text, photos, and voice memos.
Cons:
Limited advanced features.
Less suited for in-depth note-taking.
5. FlightAware
If you are a frequent flyer, you are probably all too familiar with the constant uncertainty around flight schedules. Will your flight be delayed? How long is the layover? What is the current altitude of the plane? If you have ever asked yourself these questions mid-flight, FlightAware is the app for you.
It tracks flights in real-time. Users can check flight statuses, gate information, and even view live maps of planes in flight. If you are worried about delays or just curious about the flight route, FlightAware can give you all the information, so you are never in the dark about where your plane is. Additionally, the app offers flight history, including past routes, delays and cancellations.
The downside of FlightAware is that it requires an internet connection to get live updates, which may not always be available during the flight. While you can still access historical data without Wi-Fi, you will not get real-time flight updates without it.
Pros:
Provides real-time flight tracking and status updates.
Offers detailed flight history and maps.
Easy to use interface.
Cons:
Requires an internet connection for real-time updates.
Limited functionality without Wi-Fi.
Tips for a Flight Without Stress
Making your flight more enjoyable does not stop with downloading these apps. Here are a few tips to help ensure that your flight is as stress-free as possible:
Water: Airplane cabins are notoriously dry, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the flight.
Snacks: Healthy snacks like nuts, fruits and protein bars can keep you energized during long flights.
Dress Comfortably: Opt for loose, breathable clothing and avoid tight shoes to ensure comfort during the flight.
Stretch and Move: Get up, stretch your legs, and walk around when it is safe to do so. It helps with circulation and reduces stiffness.
Use Noise-Canceling Headphones: These are great for blocking out background noise and creating a more peaceful environment.
So, now you know what to do to avoid getting bored during a long flight. Last but not least, stay positive, because we are the ones who control our mood and how everything ends.