When I'm sitting on an airplane, and I'm squished between two people, elbows tucked into my sides, I am thinking about food. Why, I don't know. It just seems like there's nothing else for me to do. The book I have isn't too exciting after all, I can't really see out the window, and if I could, there would only be clouds.Maybe there is something interesting comng my way on the trundling food cart.

Yes, there are the sandwiches and deli packs and snack options that I can buy, and I have, in a pinch, because I am always hungry on a plane.But when I plan ahead, and pack my own snacks, I really enjoy my meal in the air.

I think of the foods I look forward to eating, and bring them with me. A fresh bagel smeared with peanut butter and some jam holds up pretty well, and always tastes good to me. A small bag of chopped almonds, dried apricots, chocolate chips and possibly shreds of coconut that I prep the day before is great snacking, and not messy, either. I wish I could bring a banana, but they just don't travel well, precious things. So I opt for a crisp apple, and really, is there anything more satisfying and filling? I have also put together my own cheese trays, with little wedges of favorite wrapped cheeses, some crackers and a bunch of ripe green or red grapes. Easy and way cheaper than handing over my debit card for the $5 or $7 airplane food special. I have learned to bring along a bottle of water (post-security, of course), because I don't like to wait for the cart to come around.

These are just my usual go-tos...there are many tasty ways to pass the time in the air, and the only caveat you need to follow is this:  nothing smelly or messy, in consideration of your fellow passengers!