A flashlight covered in this manner is vital if you need to consult star charts or take notes, make sketches, etc. However, these are additional items that the more advanced observers would use. Make sure that any children who have torches have them covered as well. If not it would be necessary for an adult to take charge of them until the observing session is over. If you don't, there could be a quick end to your night vision and another twenty minute wait in the cold for it to return.
Meteors can be difficult objects to see particularly if they are of the faint type.
Way arm when the Moon if full. If the night sky is bright because of background light caused by car lights, street lamps, advertising signs or moonlight, this will make it more difficult to see faint meteors. Also, you will not get the full benefit of the splendour of the night sky. If you are faced with such problems, I would suggest that you try to get to a darker location. A light pollution free site on a good clear seeing night, is just like being in a planetarium.