A good plan is always necessary to ensure everything works properly. The same holds true when leaving for a much needed vacation! Before your flight, plan out what you intend to include in your carry on luggage, as poor preparation may cause an uncomfortable and boring ride.
The length of a flight should be taken into account when packing your belongings. If your flight duration is only a few hours, packing your carry-on bag should be an easy snap. Unnecessary items, such as a portable movie player, should be packed in your baggage. There most likely will be little time for this kind of activity during a short flight. If you want or need to use a laptop, consider the risk and hassle it may cause – especially when you are asked to take it out at the security check. While in the waiting room, be prepared to watch it closely as laptops are a prime target for thieves. Due to restricted space found the airplanes provided for short flights, using too many gadgets could make you feel unsafe and uncomfortable.
If possible bring only one carry-on bag to the airport waiting room and your passenger seat. Having only one small bag will keep you better organized and more comfortable. Never over stuff the bag and keep in mind the small overhead bins and cramped passenger seating.
For a longer flight, you may want to consider bringing small electronic diversions, unless you plan to sleep. Portable gaming consoles are a great choice for younger people, while others may settle for a thick, thrilling novel. Aside from a portable gaming console, you could also bring a small MP3 player with headphones. Be considerate of other passengers, and remember to keep the volume turned down.
A PDA with flight mode could also be considered. Advanced users can install necessary software on their PDA’s to use them as movie players, e-book readers, portable gaming consoles and MP3 players. However, you may want to bring two or three extra batteries if you are on a long flight. Last but not least, before you leave home, your airline ticket should be the first thing you check and recheck. It is useless to have the perfect flight properly prepared, only to find out you forget to bring the ticket.