The same old commute can get boring after a while. Finding new ways to occupy your commute can make it feel like a more exciting and productive part of your day. Below are just a few different inspiring ideas to help you spice up your journey to and from work.

Become a chess master

You don’t need a chess board to play chess. There are many apps that can allow you to play chess digitally against a computer or against online players - a great way to occupy your commute. Chess is a brilliant game for improving problem solving skills and reducing stress. It could help you to arrive at work feeling calm and mentally prepared for all eventualities. Plus, you’ll become a better chess player. Watch out, Gukesh Dommaraju!

Learn a new language

Always wanted to learn another language? Your journey to work could be a great chance to do just that. Apps like Duolingo and Babbel can help you to learn new words and phrases every day through lessons and quizzes. Driving to work? That’s no excuse! While you probably don’t want to be playing around with apps while driving, there are a number of language learning audiobooks you can try. Spend your next traffic jam learning Japanese, or occupy a long highway journey with some Hungarian.

Tour the world virtually

You could also spend your next commute traveling the world. While catching a flight to Cairo to see the pyramids might be a bit of a detour, there is another solution - a virtual tour of the Pyramids! There are 360 degree photos and video tours of this Ancient Wonder of The World that you can try on your phone. And this is not the only landmark that you can take a virtual tour of - from The Great Wall of China to Machu Picchu, there are many other global landmarks with interactive online video tours available.

Play some pool

Not many buses and trains have a pool table on. But that doesn’t matter. It’s possible to enjoy a pool game on your phone. While it’s not quite the same as holding a cue and pocketing a physical ball, online pool can be an addictive game in its own right and can actually be great practice for improving your angle judgment. Some virtual pool games also allow you to fine-tune the power of the shot and even choose where to hit the cue ball to attempt some spin shots.

Read non-fiction

Many people occupy their commute by reading a novel. But you don’t have to read fiction. In fact, your commute could be a great opportunity to learn more about people, places, events and ideas through non-fiction books. This could include autobiographies, history books, travel guides, philosophy books, religious books or stories of true crimes.

Listen to podcasts/audiobooks

Podcasts and audiobooks are ideal not just for those taking public transport to work, but also those who are driving to work. You can find podcasts on almost any subject imaginable, while audiobooks can be a chance to experience great novels without having to physically sit down and read them. If you need a break from listening to music, try downloading an audiobook or streaming a podcast next time you commute.

Try new card games

Your commute could also be a chance to learn new card games. There are many apps and websites where you can play all kinds of wacky variants of solitaire. It’s also possible to play multiplayer card games - either against a computer or other online players. This includes games with traditional playing cards like Hearts and Rummy, and modern games with their own set of cards like Uno. There’s also the option of casino games, but be careful not to gamble away your salary on your way to work - limit betting games or stick to playing with virtual money.

Learn to knit/crochet

Knitting/crocheting is a rewarding craft skill that could be an excellent way to occupy your commute if you’re able to guarantee a seat on the bus or train (knitting and driving is not recommended!). Start with something basic like a plain blanket or a scarf. You can then build your way up to trying patterns and other items ranging from gloves to soft toys. Knitting and crocheting can both be very relaxing and they can give you a goal to work towards.

Create dashcam content for YouTube

If you drive to work, why not invest in a dashcam? It could be a chance to record any interesting sights or events that take place on your journey to and from work. These could be compiled and uploaded to YouTube. Dashcam content is very popular! There are people who will happily watch you drive around your local town. Get enough views and you may even make some money. With a microphone, it may even be possible to provide a voiceover as you’re driving.

Complete paid surveys

What if you could make money on your commute? Completing an online paid survey per day could be potentially a way to make some extra dollars each week. It could add up in the long run and could make a difference if you’re on a low income - offsetting the cost of your commute. That said, some people may prefer to keep work at the workplace.

Order groceries

It’s common to spend a commute creating to-do lists - including shopping lists. However, you could also do your shopping as you commute. It could save you time having to go shopping after work and it could even save you money by being less tempted by impulse purchases. Just make sure that you order your groceries to arrive at a time when you’re not commuting or at work.

Meditate

Finally, commuting could be a chance to meditate. You could play some calming music (through headphones if you’re on public transport), close your eyes (not while driving) and take the time to destress. There are meditation apps that can help you get in the right zone. Alternatively, you may prefer to practise your own meditation methods. This post offers more tips on how to meditate during your commute.

Unique Ways To Occupy Your Commute