Have found from my numerous experience (parents live in Asia and inlaws in South Africa, so lots of long haul trips) the little ones are generally are pretty good. I echo nymom's comment re boarding first, especially when it is a long flight or a massive aircraft which takes time to complete boarding. One advice, take a change or two for yourself too...never know when it is needed. On my last trip which was to Australia only with a quick stopover I packed in a portable dvd player with my LOs favourite dvds. Yes, it was more TV that he would remotely be allowed at home, but hey, it kept him thouroughly occupied when he was awake (probably more suitable for older toddlers, mine was 2.5 on this trip).