To pass the time away, there are dozens, maybe even hundreds of things you can do besides sleep. Here are just a few:

• Bring a handheld video game device and try out a new game. You'll have plenty of time to master it.

• Portable DVD players are wonderful, especially if you are flying one of the “budget” airlines and don't have the option of movies. Just remember to bring headphones, as your neighbour may not want to hear your flick. Don't like movies? You can now rent or purchase whole seasons of your favourite TV shows to watch. Enjoy Season 1 of The Office over the Atlantic.

• Pack along a pad of stationary and a pen and write some letters by hand. You can drop them in the mailbox on your way out of the destination airport.

• Give drawing a try. Bring some blank paper and coloured pencils along and give creativity a shot.

• Catch up on some reading. Bring a book or magazines. If you pick up a used paperback before heading to the airport, you won't feel bad leaving it behind - and you won't have to pack it back home. For an added adventure, register your book with Book Crossings, first.

• Look through travel brochures of your destination if you don't already know which sites and attractions you will be visiting.

• Make a list of things to do when you return home or life goals.

• Clean out your wallet, purse or backpack.

• If you need to update your address book, now is the perfect time. Bring your old address book, a new one and any addresses that you need to add.

• A deck of cards and a pocket solitaire instruction manual will keep you busy for hours.

• Learn how to use all the handy features of your camera or video recorder by bringing the manual with you to read.

• People watchers will love this game: take a walk to the back of the plane and look at the interesting people in their seats. Decide who you think they are and either write or imagine how they managed to end up on the same plane as you. What do they do with their free time? Why did they choose to travel in uncomfortable clothing? This is great to do if you aren't travelling alone, as well.

• Laptops are very versatile if you have the room in your take on bag for one. Learn a new software product by loading the tutorial before you leave; practice writing more effective letters; catch up on emails; clean out your inbox; organize your documents.

• Computer games are a great way to pass the time if you have a laptop. Install a few before takeoff to ensure you have all the updates you need to play.

• Download Podcasts or e-books and enjoy them on the plane. Remember to bring headphones for any audio podcasts.

Remember what you can take on the plane will all depend on your airline's current regulations, check with them before you fly.

Haydn Wrath
http://www.travel-nation.co.uk/