Don't be afraid. It's perfectly fine to use electronics on a plane. You can use phones, laptops, handheld gaming systems and others on a plane. The only stipulation is that you cannot be connected to any Internet or satellite networks. Most phones have "Airplane Mode," and other electronics just ensure you are disconnected from any wireless networks. Use your laptop to get some work done, watch a movie or play a game on your next flight.
Purchase an EmPower adapter. Most planes use an EmPower outlet. You can check with the airline beforehand to find out what outlets they have on the plane you will be flying on. As of 2010, EmPower adapters are typically $10 to $15 depending on where you buy them, the brand you buy and whether the adapter has multiple uses or not (adapters with multiple uses may cost a lot more than $15). You can purchase one online, at a local electronics store or at the airport.
Pack your laptop into a carry-on luggage so you can bring it on the plane.
Wait to remove your laptop from the case until the pilot announces it is fine to use electronics.
Place the tray down in front of you and put the laptop on it. If it is a long flight, you may want to plug the laptop into a power outlet on the plane with the EmPower adapter. These are usually located in every other row on the chair armrests.
Boot your laptop.
Disable wireless Internet connections. No one is allowed to make or receive calls, use phone data services or use the Internet while in flight.
Use your computer normally. You can play any offline games, view saved videos, create new documents and more. Basically, you can do anything that does not require the Internet on your laptop.
