Flying solo with toddler and baby - how to keep 24mo amused?

[AndiE]

In three weeks' time I'm flying (without DH) with my just-turned-two-year-old and almost 4 month old sons - flight time approx 2+3/4 hours.

For the first time DS1 will have his own seat. I'll have DS2 on my lap.

I don't freak out easily, nor am I a real worry wort ... but I am a tad anxious about how I'll keep DS1 entertained given the length of the flight, DS1's limited attention span and the fact he doesn't like to sit still for long, and the carrier doesn't have TV screens on the back of the seats. In Feb we flew south and DS1 (then under 2) sat on DH's lap for two hours and was pretty good. So ... he's proven once he can be "calm and contained" in the air, but by the same token DH could give him undivided attention. God forbid DS2 does a poo explosion and I'll have to leave DS1 for 3 minutes (hope like hell the flight attendants are in a good mood and feel like amusing a toddler for 3 minutes that day !).

I'll be taking a drink, snacks, a couple of toys and books ... but any suggestions as to how I can keep DS1 amused and seated (or nearly seated) for almost three hours would be greatfully appreciated.

Should I just go buy a portable DVD player for endless runs of larry lawnmower and chuggington???

TIA!

[Arimeh]

2 and 3/4 hour flight south - are you coming to tassie?

Umm.. sticker books!! They always work well with DS.. ummm.. a new colouring in book? DVD player is good - with several different things - DS loves curious george so he always sits still for that one.

[kelebek]

I was going to suggest the portable DVD player... keep it hidden and bring it out only if necessary can you borrow one instead of buying one?