There’s something magical about reading while on the move. Whether you’re soaring above the clouds, sitting on a train watching landscapes blur by, or lounging on a beach somewhere far from home, a good book can enhance the experience—or even define it. Since the holidays are around the corner, I’m sure you are all planning your next book marathon for that little moment of solitude in the madness of family charades.

But reading while traveling comes with its own quirks and challenges. Packing constraints to distractions to motion sickness, it’s not always as simple as opening a book or turning on that e-reader. Read below for a practical (and tried and true) guide to help you read more (and better) while on the go.

1. Controversial, but let’s be frank here – Digital is, in fact, perfectly fine.

Books are beautiful, but if your TBR shelf is anything like mine, it’s full of bulky tomes. If you’re a frequent traveler (or aspire to be a light packer), consider an e-reader or even an audiobook device. You can bring hundreds of books in a device that weighs less than an average paperback.

Plus, many e-reader models can be used with external chargers and work great in varying types of weather experiences. Audiobooks offer the chance to avoid talking to your plane, train or automobile neighbor. Nothing is worse than being interrupted in the midst of your story by someone asking “what are you reading?”

Tip: Consider loading whatever device you use with a variety of genres. You never know what reading mood your travels may inspire.

Tip: It is worth it to create a “go-bag” for your e-reader or other devices that include travel cords, external charges, or wall charger plugs. Keep it with your normal travel materials. This way you don’t run into the issue where you have left your “normal” cord at home.

2. Download Offline Content Ahead of Time

As I’m sure we all know, Wi-Fi can be both unreliable and, in some cases, ridiculously expensive during travel. If you’re using an e-reader or reading apps (Kindle, Audible, Libby etc) take the time to download everything before you leave home. Definitely, an important note that I include on any “to do” list before I take an extended trip.

Tip: Don’t forget to update your devices and sync your bookmarks in case you’re switching between formats.

3. Don’t Fight Distraction—Plan for It

Travel comes with constant interruptions. Announcements, boarding calls, or simply the need to look up and take in your surroundings can all take you out of that ever important Reading Zone. Choose books that are easy to dip in and out of—short story collections, essays, or fast-paced thrillers work well while you are in between spaces.

If you get motion sickness or just want to rest your eyes while in transit, audiobooks are a lifesaver. They’re perfect for long drives, airport waiting areas, or while hiking or walking through a new city. Invest in quality noise-cancelling headphones to block out background noise and make the experience more immersive (but do so safely!).

Save that engrossing novel for when you have longer periods to enjoy without interruptions. After you are already in the air, your train/boat doesn’t have frequent stops, or at night in your hotel. It is also helpful to choose easier stories if you are travelling places where you still need to maintain a level of vigilance in your surroundings.

4. Be Open to Reading Where You Are

Sometimes, the best book is the one you discover locally. Browse a neighborhood bookstore or a local little library, pick up a book by an author from the region you’re visiting, or even grab something in translation. Reading local literature can add depth to your travel experience and give you a more nuanced understanding of the culture.

5. Creating Rituals and Setting Expectations

Set your expectations early and be realistic. A good rule of thumb is to make sure you are not pressuring yourself to read too much. You’re travelling for a reason, so presumably there are things you want to see and do. The best travelling provides space to experience everything.

If you like your morning or evening rituals, set aside time to do the same while you are traveling. Mornings in a cafe with coffee, afternoons by the pool, or before bed in your hotel room. This gives your day a comforting anchor and helps you unwind from overstimulation or jet lag.

Travel is unpredictable. While you think you’ll breeze through four or five books, its also equally possible you’ll barely finish a single book. Using e-reader and audiobooks creates less items that you need to move to and from.

Tip: Journaling a few thoughts after each reading session can help you process both your book and your travel experience. Another option is to send yourself postcards from your travels, so you have souvenirs and memories all in one.

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Let the Journey Guide Your Reading

The best travel memories aren’t always the ones you planned. Sometimes, a novel picked up at a hostel shelf, a new genre, or an unexpected author becomes the perfect travel companion. So, stay open, be flexible, and let the road lead both your body and your imagination.

Happy travels, and even happier reading!

What’s your favorite book to read on the road? Drop it in the comments below and let fellow travelers find their next great read.