Do you have a laptop? If so could you add in a DVD drive to that, certainly less to carry...

Sorry but not too up on DVD players. Frysoutpost.com always seems to have some very cheap ones, and to be honest if you are looking at something on a tiny screen I suppose it becomes a balance of clarity over price.

The screens on most airlines have pretty awful quality but it doesnt seem to detract from the enjoyment of the film.

I would go cheap, I assume this thing is going to get some battering with all the travel, so if it breaks, $150 is easier to swallow than $400. They are not that robust.