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Have you ever experienced a flight where everything goes wrong and you arrive at your destination tired and tense? Some things are out of our control, such as a screaming baby in the seat in front of you or a disruptive neighbouring passenger. However, Britons are travelling more than ever before, so here are some tips to help you make the most of a long-haul flight and land at your destination feeling relatively fresh and rested.

Entertain yourself

Make sure you take something to do on the flight such as a book or some light work from the office. Many people store a good movie and watch it on their laptop if they have one: a wonderful way to pass the time. There are also many electronic games on the market now which take up little room and can provide a diversion (just make sure you turn off the sound effects for the sake of your neighbours).

Is the low cost flight worth it?

Price is usually the first consideration when booking a flight but it may end up being a false economy. First check to see where the plane takes off and where the destination airport is located. You might find that it's a long and costly journey from the airport to your actual destination. A long trip on the road is the last thing you will feel like after flying for several hours.

Take care to pack carefully

Baggage handlers are not careful with your checked-in luggage. Liquid items such as suntan lotion, moisturiser and perfume can easily leak into the rest of your luggage. It is a good idea to pack them in separate strong plastic bags to prevent your clothes smelling of toothpaste for the rest of your trip. Make sure you have everything you may need during the journey in your hand luggage.

Avoid carrying restricted items

New strict security checks in airports mean that items such as razors, penknives and hypodermic needles must be packed into your check in luggage and not carried with you on the plane. Do not think you can sneak these things onboard because you will be caught. By the time they find the offending items, your check-in bags will be already on the plane and you will often have to dispose of whatever items caused the problem.

Allow plenty of time

It is always tempting to turn up at the airport a little late in order to reduce the waiting time before your flight. This method of travel might save time but often does not save stress. Checking in early means that you will be more likely to get the seat you like and with the people with whom you are travelling. Additionally, a last-minute dash to the airport will only result in your being stressed, out of breath and anxious about missing your flight. Hardly the best start to a trip!

Make your bags easily recognisable

Most people remember to mark the outside of their bag with a tag but what if it comes off? Mark the inside as well with your full details to be sure that if (and when), your bags do go missing they can be quickly identified as yours. Also a sticker or a distinctive luggage strap on the outside of your luggage will help you identify your luggage on the conveyer belt in arrivals hall.

The best seats

Every aeroplane has emergency exit seats and they are the closest many of us will get to flying business class in terms of extra space in front of you. Ask in good time and you may end up with a seat with plenty of leg-room. Some airlines allow you to book such seats in advance on payment of a small extra sum.

Dress the part

Wear smart, comfortable clothes for the flight. You will feel much better when you arrive at your destination and if you feel brave enough to ask for an upgrade you are more likely to get one.

Take a nap

Ear-plugs and an eye mask are essential for a good nap on the plane. Block yourself off from everything and pass the time peacefully dozing. You may find the purchase of an inflatable neck pillow a great aid to your being able to sleep without waking up with the travellers stiff neck which can last for quite a few days after the flight.

Avoid the dreaded 'jet lag'

Set your watch to your destination time as soon as you get on the plane. Try to match your activities with those in which you would be involved if you were already there. Try to sleep if at your destination it is night, and try to stay awake if it is daylight. This will help with the adaptation process when you arrive.

Keep Active

Walk or move around as much as you can on your flight to help prevent deep vein thrombosis. As cabin air is very dehydrating, drink plenty of water to help you keep hydrated on your flight. Avoid alcohol at all costs, it dehydrates and affects you more up in the air. Long haul travellers may wish to invest in some anti-DVT stockings which are now available in all major pharmacies. These stockings promote circulation and if it is difficult to get up and move around as you would like, they will provide a degree of protection against the possible effects of being immobile.

Clear ears

Chewing sweets or even gum can help you to unblock your ears when the cabin pressure changes. If you have serious problems with this then consult a pharmacist first, there are plenty of effective tools that can help.

Maintain hydration

Most airlines offer frequent soft drinks as they recognise that cabin air is very drying. Take advantage of the offer and drink little and often to counteract these effects. Dehydration causes headaches and lethargy. Alcohol further dehydrates, so don't be tempted. You may feel it helps you to relax, but flying hangovers (and it takes little alcohol to cause a hangover at altitude), cause much misery.