India, Oct. 4 -- I have become the person who reaches the airport early, settles in with a coffee, finds a comfortable corner and prepares for the long stretch ahead. After spending a lot of time on flights and some very long layovers, I have learnt that the right things in my handbag can make a surprisingly big difference. I do not like carrying a giant handbag stuffed with things I might need someday. I prefer a small collection of things I know I will actually use. Some make flying more comfortable, some save me during layovers, and a few have quietly become part of my regular holiday kit too.

I always carry an insulated coffee mug, and my current favourite is the one from Cello. I am a big coffee person, especially at airports, and h...