Comfortable Air Travel

Planning on a trip abroad? Perhaps you're excited about the destination, but you're probably not looking forward to the plane ride (especially if you are booked on economy!). My jet setting friend, Shawn Ulmsted, shares some tips on how to travel on a plane more comfortably.

1. Wear loose, comfortable clothing in layers, so that you can remove and add items according to the temperature. Airplanes often use excessive air conditioning, so bring one more layer than you think you'll need.

2. Check in as much baggage as you can, for there is nothing more annoying than to have too much carry-on baggage and no place to stow it. Just put those things in your carry-on luggage that you need during the flight or in the first few hours after, in case your luggage wasn't on the flight.

3. Chew gum during takeoffs and landings to avoid ear discomfort caused by the altitude change.

4. Keep muscles from cramping by stretching before, during and after the trip. Walk up and down the aisles and rotate your neck, shoulders and wrists.

5. Avoid eating salty foods like airline peanuts, which can cause you to retain water. Eat fruit instead.

6. Drink double the amount of water you normally would and avoid alcoholic beverages during flight. Alcohol contributes to jet lag and dehydration.

7. Keep your blood moving while you sit in your seat by raising your feet and rotating your ankles.

8. Just in case you're seated next to "Sleazy Business Traveler Guy," invest in a pair of cheap headphones and some relatively opaque sunglasses. This will send a clear message: "No, I don't really want to hear about all the exciting things you do, how much money you make, or your wife back home who doesn't understand you." The is also useful when you find yourself next to "The Flier with the Endless Photo Album" or "The Well-Meaning, Personal-Question-Asking Lady."

9. Never travel in new shoes. For the plane in particular, wear comfortable shoes that are easy to take off and on (like shoes with Velcro closures). This will make it easy at security in the airport, and easy to slip your shoes off on overnight flights. Remember that your feet may swell a bit overnight, so be sure you have roomy footwear.