It is summer which means endless days of sun, fun and of course, trips to theme parks. I recently visited Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida, with my sister. One thing we noticed was the majority of the lines were ridiculously long. I mean after paying high admission prices who has extra cash for a fast pass? It was hot and with the popularity of the parks, time seemed to slow down. So instead of becoming grouchy and worst of all "hangry," we discovered our own way to enjoy the lines at Universal Studios. Here are 10 fun ways of passing the time:
1. Chargers are a must!
One of the worst feelings is not being able to go on your phone for fear of having it die on you (when you are only on the second ride at the park). An easy solution to that is bringing portable chargers. Portable chargers relieve that nagging stress you have that prevents you from going to check your news feed. Now you can scroll with ease!
2. It is important to have snacks.
Waiting in a line that is long when it is hot out, can lead to hangry symptoms. Snacks are an easy way to keep you refreshed and a good way to pass the time! When you are munching on some crackers or an apple, you will find that the line moves more quickly while you are busy eating.
3. You are never too old for hand games.
Playing hand games is always fun, especially when waiting in line. You will find that when once you have passed the first six vital hand claps in the numbers hand-clapping game, that you barely notice anything outside of your amazing streak (let alone the rapid pace at which the line is moving). You may also find that you have started a chain reaction, right on!
4. Snapchat your experience!
Swapping faces and doggy filters are key to passing time while you are in line. Now that you do not have to worry about a dying phone, you can focus on making 10- second memories with your friends and family.
5. Talk to the people around you!
For some reason, theme park goers seem to always have something to talk about because we all have a universal (no pun intended) love for theme parks and rides! Strike up a conversation with someone around you and broaden your worldview a little more.
6. I-Spy is always fun when you are with friends.
With long lines at Universal Studios, you are bound to see something strange. Instead of focusing on the length of the line or rather how slow time is passing, take a look at your surroundings. Also, if you see something abnormal at least you'll get a good laugh out of it.
8. People-watching is fine as long as you never get caught!
People all around the world come to enjoy Universal Studios and other parks, so you are going to be exposed to other cultures when at theme parks. As long as you do not make people-watching obvious, you can learn about others' quirks without making them feel uncomfortable. Helpful hint: sunglasses can enhance your people watching skills.
9. Catch up on some reading.
If you are like me, you have a never ending list of books to read. So want to pass the time? Bring a book! There is never a better time to catch up on some reading then when waiting in line. Enhances your eBook listing!
10. Take time to admire the work that was put into the ride!
The engineers of the park put a great deal of effort in building the ride so that you can truly enjoy your experience. Don't forget to enjoy the view that surrounds you.
Waiting in line can be a pain, especially when the line is long and it is burning hot outside. However, it's important to make the best of the situation and to just have fun.