Thirty Thousand:

I just returned this evening from Pennsylvania, and I am spent. With all of the travel that I do, I have learned that a few simple pleasures go a long way on a long bi-coastal flight however... 

In normal life magazines seem frivolous, but flights always seem to be the perfect excuse to indulge in glossy pages, redundant beauty tips, and expensive fashion... I arbitrarily base my decision on my affinity for who is on the cover and don't put much thought into the process to be honest. And I'll often grab a home decor or travel magazine to mix things up. Average cost: $12. Worth it. 

[My first grab en route to Pennsylvania was obviously the one with Zooey.]

Another must for me is to download an album that I have been meaning to purchase anyways from the iTunes store while I wait to board... It's so exciting to browse, decide mere moments before finding my prison seat, and then only listen once we're up in the air! Sometimes it's nice to grab a silly (and often free) game for my iPhone as well. ("Bubble Shooter" has been the go-to for my past two excursions.) Average cost: $9.99. Worth it. 

[Matt Nathanson's "Modern Love" was the soundtrack for this particular trip.]

I usually have a difficult time concentrating while reading actual books during flights since I'm so uncomfortable, but at times I can use this traditional remedy for in-air boredom. Also, I have found that wifi is sub par at best and only results in further frustration, as well as the fact that I am not being too keen on others being able to see every last thing that I am looking at whilst browsing the web... I feel like I'm being watched! 

Oh, and snacks are always a must. Duh. (Prices may vary.)