As I wrote this, I was sitting alone on a four hour train ride with no internet access, book, companion, or headphones. I was not aware that I was headphoneless until the train had already pulled out of the station and I started pawing through my backpack looking for them. My search proves futile, but I did come up with a notebook and pen so I decided to brainstorm things one can do to pass the time on public transportation if they are woefully unprepared. Here is what I was able to come up with.

1. Sleep

This one is a no brainer. It will make the hours fly by, and you will get off the train refreshed and rejuvenated. But probably with a crick in your neck.

2. Sit down next to a stranger and start a conversation with them.

If they don't seem interested in talking to you, keep sitting down in empty seats until you find someone who does.

3. If you have a notebook, draw, write, or study.

Express yourself. Cultivate your creativity.

4. If you only have a napkin, try your hand at origami.

If origami isn't your forte, make one of those fortune teller things kids used to make in elementary school

5. People watch.

You can watch people on or off your transportation vehicle, but keep in mind that staring is generally considered to be impolite. And also keep in mind that you will probably see a lot of people just staring at their phones for hours on end.

6. Play typical road trip games.

Find every letter of the alphabet on the signs and billboards you pass, or punch the person next to you if you pass a Volkswagen Beetle (not recommended if the person is a stranger).

7. Overthink in detail every embarrassing thing you've ever done in your entire existence.

(Not recommendedif you want to keep what's left of your sanity)

8. Braid your hair.

But why stop there? After you finish your hair, go around and braid the hair of unsuspecting sleeping passengers.

9. Stare out the window dully, cursing yourself for not preparing for the trip properly.

Which is what I ended up doing after I wrote this list.