Hand luggage is essential for flying especially long haul flights. To that end choosing the right items in your hand luggage not only prepares you for any unforeseen eventualities but it also gives you something to do while spending six hours plus on an aeroplane.

Good Book - Nothing like a good book to pass the time when trekking from one part of the world to another. The less organised of us will no doubt be reading travel guides on our destination. The more organised of us will be reading something fairly light and easy to consume.

Puzzles, sudoku, etc etc - A good book of crossword puzzles, sudoku or word searches can be invaluable on long haul flights. They can be used anywhere providing you have not forgotten a pen or pencil

Deck of Cards - A sociable way to pass the time is through playing cards. The great aspect of playing cards is that the range of games that can be played is regulated by your tiredness

Underwear - A change of underwear can be invaluable. Airlines can and do go bust and when they do it normally happens without much warning. Flights are delayed due to weather conditions and other reasons such as terrorism. A change of underwear could be invaluable if you have to spend the night at an airport.

Travel pillow - Again, should the above happen a pillow to rest your head will be much welcomed, especially if the rest of you is laying on a concrete floor.

Smartphones - Though you have to put them on flight mode when the aircraft takes off and lands they are a nice addition to have to hand. It is especially nice with a good range of travelling apps which not only tell you how to get to your holiday or vacation villa, but how hot it is when you get to your chosen destination.

Hand luggage when planned properly can get you out of a tight spot or at the very least make the waiting that bit more bearable.