KEY POINTS:
Do you travel light or heavy?
Heavy! I'm a shocker. The excess baggage I had to pay coming back from London last time was ruinous.
Cattle or first-class?
Cattle. One day, one day ...
I can't travel without ...
My passport! But seriously: ear plugs, one of those blow-up neck pillows, jandals, water, moisturiser, deodorant, toothbrush. What type of suitcase do you carry? I have two really great soft suitcases by a company called Delsey. They have wheels (a must) and are light and expandable. I'd love one of those big Samsonite "hardside" cases, though. They're hot.
What's always in your hand luggage?
See answer to 3. Plus a good book, pyjama pants to change into for the trip and some undies. And the new holiday scent I just bought in duty-free. If the authorities didn't think I wanted to stab the cabin crew in the eyes with my needles I would definitely take my knitting.
Are you a planner or last-minute packer?
Planner. Although I nearly managed to leave home without my passport last time. Oh, the stress. Never again.
What's the best thing you've brought back from a trip?
A plastic gondola with multicoloured lights, on a gold stand with "Venezia" written on it. It's hilarious. It looks perfect in my friend Gemma's kitchen. Or should I say "kitsch-en".
Favourite or most exciting airport to land in?
Wellington is always a little thrilling, especially in a raging northerly. Best travel tip? Never travel long distances in tight clothing. If you want to look chic so you can wangle an upgrade (this has never worked for me, but I'm holding out for a hero), make sure you take something comfy and warm to wear once you're on the plane. And a sedative of some sort helps if you're not a good plane sleeper.
Most memorable trip?
Being dropped about 50m on to the tarmac at Fiumicino airport in Rome (at about 300km/h) and then nearly getting whiplash from the pilot's slamming on the brakes was "interesting".
There was a round of applause when we stopped.
What do you do while on the plane?
I try to sleep but find it a bit hard due to excitement and bad air-con. I usually watch movies, listen to the comedy channel, read, stretch my legs as often as I can (the only thing aisle seats are good for).
Amanda Billing stars in Shortland Street, weeknights at 7pm on TV2.
