Every so often, I like to travel to Switzerland to unwind and clear my mind. It’s a trip I genuinely look forward to—but there’s one part I still struggle with: the sheer distance. Flying from Santiago to Zurich takes a long time. While the destination is absolutely worth it, I’ve had to figure out how to make the journey itself more manageable.

Over time, I’ve developed a simple system to turn these long-haul flights into something closer to a relaxing experience rather than an endurance test. The key is planning ahead and keeping my mind engaged.

The first thing I always do is reserve my seat early—and I always choose an aisle seat. For me, being able to stand up, stretch, or walk around whenever I want makes a huge difference. It gives me a sense of freedom and prevents that trapped feeling you can get during long flights. It’s a small decision, but it sets the tone for the entire trip.

Entertainment is the next big priority. While in-flight entertainment systems are decent, I prefer bringing my own curated options. That way, I’m not stuck scrolling endlessly through mediocre choices. I want things I’m actually excited about.

Video games are at the top of my list. But not just any games—I specifically choose ones that I can play on my phone or a handheld console. Playing on a laptop during a flight is uncomfortable and awkward, especially in a cramped seat. Mobile gaming is much more practical. I also make it a point to pick games I’ve never played before. That sense of novelty keeps me engaged and curious, which helps time pass much faster.

Music is another essential part of my routine. There are always moments during a flight when I don’t feel like playing games or watching movies. That’s when music becomes the perfect escape. Before each trip, I download a few albums—usually ones that have been well-reviewed but that I’ve never listened to before. It adds a sense of discovery to the journey, almost like I’m creating a soundtrack for the trip itself.

In the end, long flights don’t have to feel like wasted time. With a bit of planning and the right mindset, they can actually become an enjoyable part of the experience. For me, it’s all about comfort, curiosity, and having something to look forward to—even at 35,000 feet.