When it comes to airplanes, everyone is so concerned with TSA guidelines and the long lines that they forget to plan for their actual flight time. When flights can last from few to several hours, it may take a little pre-planning and creativity to keep yourself occupied. While laptops and phone usage are frowned upon, there is still plenty to keep you busy until you reach your destination.

Have a cocktail. Yes, this is the first thing on the list. All other options on this list will be better after first doing this. Be cautious, however. On-flight drink purchases typically land around $12 per drink. Save some money and pack a few tiny 100mL liquor bottles in your carry on. *Drink in moderation!*

Get productive. Sitting in a plane with nowhere to go for hours offers the perfect time to work on those tedious tasks that have been waiting around for the right time: getting extra work done, unsubscribing from emails, organizing your bag, deleting photos from your phone, etc.

Organize your trip. Okay, so maybe you choose a last minute flight to go with your last minute vacation, and you’ve got no idea what to do in this new city. Or maybe you just want to double check to make sure you didn’t miss anything. Either way, planning out vacation activities while on the flight is an excellent use of time and energy.

Practice the local language. If you are headed to a location that speaks another language, the plane ride there offers the chance to brush up on some terms and get prepared for a language submersion. Even if you are traveling closer to home, time flying on planes can be utilized to learn a new language. Look out resume!

Chat with your neighbor. Socializing. Ah, society’s most forgotten past time! As silly as you may feel (think you will feel), there is a lot of good to be found talking with those sitting near you. Starting a conversation can introduce exciting people and offer new insight and perspectives.

Sleep. For many, this is an obvious one. Sleeping on your flight can enable you to get in the amount of rest you need without cutting too much into your vacation. Not to mention time flies when in R.E.M. Make things more comfortable by bringing a blanket and neck pillow, and even eye masks to block out the pesky sunlight.

Fall is a wonderful time to take a vacation to climates that are normally too crowded or too hot to enjoy during summer vacation. Or this can be a time to visit a place where you can embrace fall colors and cozy autumn activities. What are the seven best places to travel in October?

1) Mendocino, California

Just over 150 miles north of San Francisco on PCH is the Northern California gem, Mendocino. Where Bohemians meet wine country, this quirky area is has a heady combination of breathtaking cliffy Pacific views, arty shops and endless rows of organic vines and trees with gorgeous fall colors.

2) Greek Islands

The Greek Islands are usually packed with vacationers in the hot summer months, but they are the best-kept secret in October. Warm, but not scorching weather allows visitors to enjoy hiking and exploring as well as avoiding beach crowds. Visit Rhodes for lively Lindos nightlife and antiquities, Crete for hiking or Corfu for luxurious vacationing with the rich and famous on the spectacular Ionian.

3) Zanzibar

Off the coast of Tanzania is the enchanting island of Zanzibar. Enjoy swimming or snorkeling at the many pristine beaches. Take a stroll on this magical island and engage your senses with exotic spices, natural beauty, and art. Go on a nature safari, or take a bike on a tour around the islands. Best yet, get cozy with wild animals at Cheetah’s Rock.

4) The Galapagos Islands

Avoid the rainy, hot season and visit the Galapagos Islands in dry October. The water is warm enough for a lovely dip. This is peak season for bird and fish species making this the ideal time of year to go to this bucket list destination.

5) Bohol, Philippines

No longer an obscure destination for adventurers, Bohol island is filled with secret waterfalls in a stunning natural setting. There is plenty of ways to explore and enjoy the island. Take a moped around the island, snorkel or swing from trees before jumping into the water.

6) Reykjavik, Iceland

Are the Northern Lights on your bucket list? By October the Midnight Sun is long gone and the nights are dark enough to see the magical Aurora Borealis. Make sure to bathe in the warm, thermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, horseback ride in the treeless countryside, be sure check out the Gullfoss and Geiser and party all night in the city that never sleeps.

7) Twin Cities, Minnesota

If you are looking for fall colors, the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul have a breathtaking array. Take a drive around Lake Minnetonka or a boat ride on the St. Croix River to enjoy the crisp air and the dazzling autumn colors. Visit an apple orchard or pumpkin farm to pick your own or explore a corn maze.

When the right moment hits for a great weekend getaway prepare to seize the hours with gusto. As anyone over the age of college weekends knows, the right getaway on the perfect weekend can improve your outlook when you need it the most.

Occasionally, the perfect getaway presents itself all in one package with a bow on top. However, you stand a far better chance of creating opportunities for just the right pocket vacation with a little preparation.

Keep a Getaway Kit at Hand

Depending on your locale, you cannot go wrong by keeping a to-go bag handy. Most of the time the logical place to stash essentials is in your trunk. Often, any fellow travelers look askance at any weekend gear actually stashed in supermarket bags. If your perfect weekend getaway typically involves camping, hiking or other rugged, outdoor activities, consider investing in a mid-size backpack.

You may find the idea of a sturdy, classic duffel bag that leans toward the classy side more your style. Whatever you choose, you cannot go wrong with lots of pockets. Backpack or duffel, it never hurts to have a quality, lightweight sleeping bag along. Even a hotel room couch is more comfortable with your own sleeping gear.

When in Doubt, Pack Light

Keep cosmetics and gadgets to a bare minimum. Remember, if you cannot live without something, it is probably already in your getaway bag. Most essentials are available for purchase along your route or at your destination. Keep travel size samples of toothpaste, shampoo, and other toiletries. Always pack an extra toothbrush.

Keep Your Destination Close and Handy

A spontaneous weekend getaway is most likely to leave you refreshed and well-rested if your destination is easy to reach, as well as a reasonable drive home. While you may be anxious to take off on your weekend adventure, check with any travel buddies to make sure their return plans coincide with yours.

If not, you do not need to abandon your quick getaway, simply adjust your transportation ahead of time.

Know Yourself and Your Goals

When you prepare your getaway bag, take inventory of your mental baggage. You know what activities relax you. Adventures others find exciting may stress you out if your goals demand alone time.

No apologies are necessary. Circumstances change in life, and you are far better off coping in a positive way. Your perfect weekend getaway might be an overnight stay at a bed-and-breakfast inn where you can read to your heart’s content.