Travelling seems to be more and more complicated these days due to new security regulations. While I appreciate being protected, the hoops you have to jump through can sometimes be a bit annoying! I travelled to Las Vegas over the Fourth of July holiday and getting there was a bit taxing. To successfully pass through security I had to remove my belt, coat, and shoes as well as have my lotions, liquids and gels in 3 oz. containers or smaller AND in a quart size bag…no exceptions! So once I made it through security with my appropriately sized lotions, liquids and gels and redressed, I was ready to buy that three dollar bottle of water and head to my gate.
I was allowed one small suitcase or bag (I carry a book bag since it is better for your back and leaves me hands free to manage my other belongings) and a personal item (my purse). I finally boarded and made my way to seat 22B (yep, the dreaded middle seat!). I quickly placed my book bag in the overhead bin and my purse below the seat in front of me so everyone else could get by and take their seat too. Once airborne I regretted not getting out my book and iPod…not to mention that overly priced bottle of water! So I asked Mr. 22C (the guy in the aisle seat) if he would let me up for a moment. He smiled that southern smile I could read right through… he didn’t really want to have to get up. I’ve been there a time or two myself.
I unloaded my bag from the overhead bin, dug through the pockets trying to locate the items I was sure I packed but somehow weren’t that easy to find as I crouched in the dimly lit narrow aisle.
An hour into the flight after finishing my water and the cranberry juice I’d ordered from the beverage service it was time to make a trip to the restroom. Fortunately, Mr. 22C was heading in the same direction at the same time, so I didn’t have to bother him. Somehow I made it back to my seat before he did and I felt a bit relieved (no pun intended!). But just as we were both buckled back in I realized my hand sanitizer was in my book bag…in the overhead bin. Yes, I had washed my hands in the bathroom, but the “not so fresh” smell of the water on the plane is something I just can’t stand. So I gathered my nerve and gently nudged Mr. 22C who at this point was starting to doze. I smiled exuding all the southern charm I could gather and sweetly asked him once again if he minded letting me up. He groggily nodded and let me up.
So, for the trip home I decide to be a bit more prepared. I packed my personal item, my book bag and a small “in-flight bag” with all the items I knew I would want handy for the trip home. I put my "in-flight bag” in my book bag but took it out as soon as I got to my seat and placed it under the seat in front of my with my purse.
The next time you travel consider preparing an “in-flight bag” with items such as a book, iPod, snack, contact solution, lotion, hand sanitizer, Chap Stick, or any other item you typically need during a flight. When deciding what should go in the bag think about the time of day you are travelling. If it is a red eye flight, then don’t forget to pack some breath mints or a travel toothbrush and toothpaste (3 oz. or smaller!). The “in-flight bag” will make the trip a little less disruptive for you and the passengers sitting beside you. It also allows you to have what you need even when the seat belt sign is on and you are instructed to stay in your seat. The idea can be transferred to any type of travel, and it is helpful for all ages!
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