A bit nerdy, but I hook up my ipod for music when I go on long trips. I then measure everything by how far through my playlist I am. For instance, when I am driving from Waco, TX to Yuma, AZ - I know that once I reach just over the halfway point then I should be rolling into town soon. Haha.
Not sure if this qualifies for an answer.
As for planes and stuff. Totally by Time. Planes make my cranky.