
For people who regularly embark on adventures around the world, flying can take up a lot of their time. While some people can sleep through flights and converse with fellow passengers during turbulence, others find that boredom sets in. As such, many jet setters are always assessing ways in which they can bring more entertainment to proceedings.
For many travelers, gaming stands out. This commonly enjoyed entertainment option can be explored through an aircraft’s in-flight entertainment (IFE) system, although it’s also available through handheld gaming devices like a Steam Deck or even a smartphone. While your internet connection might not always be reliable, it should suffice. Likewise, some games can be explored offline. Essentially, for travelers who are open to sampling gaming, the options are vast.
However, it’s fair to say that some holidaymakers prefer a good book or a podcast to listen to over a gaming marathon. Despite this, though, many people also turn to gaming. Here are six reasons why you should consider doing the same below.
Time quite literally flies
First and foremost, given the immersive gaming experiences you can explore in 2026, gaming will have your full attention during a long-haul flight. You can take down formidable bosses or solve an array of puzzles, all while enjoying an engaging offering that helps pass the time. For people who can’t sit through long movies, gaming is the ideal solution, given the way in which it transports players to a virtual space.
Portable gaming is amazing
In the past, it’s fair to say that many portable gaming experiences were fairly limited. However, thanks to the continued technology-based innovation we’re lucky to be living through, there are some truly amazing portable gaming experiences to dive into. From playing DraftKings casino games like Derby on a smartphone device to experiencing Helldivers 2 on the Lenovo Legion Go S SteamOS, there are some fantastic gaming products to explore through these popular portable gaming platforms. They contain amazing graphics, exceptional power, and more.
The perfect way to unwind
Gaming also represents the perfect way to unwind. After all, travelling can be stressful at times. To make it a smoother experience, many titles offer relaxing packages that help people switch off. If you’re keen to forget about any pre-flight annoyances and put any family disputes behind you, then loading up a game is the perfect way to de-stress.
More options available
As mentioned, despite having access to in-flight entertainment systems, many passengers prefer gaming through a handheld device as there is simply more choice on offer. Likewise, many airlines offer fairly basic games that don’t bring much excitement to the table. As such, travelers everywhere are packing portable gaming products in their hand luggage, giving them a viable escape should they need it. Given the sheer number of games the average handheld platform can handle, flyers will always have something worthwhile to explore.
Offline play works

Additionally, offline play works. While most airlines provide reliable connections, issues can arise at times. Fear not, offline play is a viable option for many jet setters, with many leading titles available to play in the clouds with or without an internet connection. For people who want to unwind with a relaxing puzzle gaming session or traverse an open world environment before having a nap, gaming is always on offer.
A chance to chat
If your fellow passengers aren’t too keen on exchanging stories, then you can converse with loved ones while up in the clouds. Given the social features many online games possess, you can share progress on social media, take on a buddy in a tense clash, and more.