1. Spirits (iPad & Android): This game is one of my favorites for long flights because it’s challenging, yet also calming. The goal is to navigate adorable white spirits home through obstacles. Although there are some seriously challenging levels, the beautiful imagery and soothing soundtrack make it a great pick for a potentially stress-raising journey. $4.99 & $2.99
2. Plants vs Zombies 2 (iOS & Android): Hugely addictive, but with quick levels, Plants vs Zombies 2 is ideal for a long trip during where there may be frequent interruptions and concentration disturbances. Because each level is fairly short, passing drink carts have yet to ruin a game. Free
3. World of Goo HD (iOS & Android): Another beautifully rendered title with high entertainment value, the goal here is to build various structures to complete the levels. This game is one of my favorites to play in the plane cabin because of the creative challenge and also because it plays well under low light, making it a good pick for when the cabin lights have been dimmed. $4.99
4. Card Games (iOS): I’m not sure if I’m just absent-minded or I have poor luck, but it seems whenever I travel with a deck of cards, I lose at least one. Since I’ve grown tired of losing playing cards, I now solely stick to playing solitaire card games on my tablet, better suited for the tiny tray tables on planes. Free
5. SpellTower (iOS & Android): An addictive word puzzle game that can be described as a combination between Boggle and Tetris. SpellTower makes this list due to it being sufficiently challenging and interesting enough to melt away the hours with (and it looks snazzy too). $1.99