5. Sign up for expedited programs

Programs such as Nexus, TSA Pre-Check, and Global Entry enable plane travellers to receive expedited security checks and entry clearance at most airports, saving considerable time and hassle. Typically, applicants go through a criminal background check, pay a fee, and in some cases, must attend an interview. Approval can take several months, but if you’re a frequent flyer, it can be well worth it.

6. Bring noise-cancelling headphones or ear plugs

For the perfect long-haul trip, invest in some good quality noise cancelling headphones. They can be expensive, but they are worth every penny to tune out the noise. If you don’t want to spend so much, you can get some very affordable ear plugs that will at least muffle the noise. They actually work quite well.

7. Bring your own entertainment

Bring playing cards, crossword puzzles, books, Kindles, iPads, whatever you need to keep you entertained on your flight, especially if the flight does not have in-flight movies (you can ask in advance). When flying with small children, bring a Switch or an iPad to keep the kids occupied.

8. Check in ahead of time

Always check in to your flight ahead of time from your computer or smart phone. Print out your boarding pass or download it to your phone. This will save you time at the airport. If you’re not checking luggage, you can then go straight to security when you arrive. Most airlines will let you check in up to 24 hours in advance.

9. Choose the Right Seat For You

If you don’t mind paying the extra fee that most airlines now charge for seat selection, choosing your seat in advance can help make your flight more comfortable, especially on long flights. Statistics show that about 70% of flyers like the aisle seat because you don’t have to climb over other passengers to go to the washroom or take a walk around the plane. About 30% like the window seat, because of the view and the bulkhead you can rest your head against. (Nobody really likes the middle seat.) If you tend to get airsick, the middle of the plane is better, because there is less movement there. Some people like the emergency exit seats because it gives them more legroom.

10. Wear Comfortable Clothing

Unless you’re in first class, airplanes are not the most comfortable of places, especially now that aircraft manufacturers are making seating areas smaller and smaller to fit more seats in the cabin. If you’re going on vacation, and are going to be sitting in an airplane for a few hours, why worry about fashion. Dress comfortably, with loose fitting clothing and comfortable shoes. If you need to dress up, you can always do that when you arrive at your hotel.

11. Use a Travel Pillow

Some people find them a nuisance to drag around, but a good quality travel pillow can take some of the strain off your neck and shoulders, especially on long flights. They can also assist with sleep. There are different sizes and styles of pillows to suit any traveller.

12. Check Your Flight Status Before Going to the Airport

Before leaving home, check the status of your flight on your computer or smart phone, especially if there is bad weather in the area. Waiting at home is better than waiting at the airport if your flight has been significantly delayed. You can subscribe to flight-status updates on your smartphone when you do pre-check in.

13. Arrive in time

Consider the day of the week, time of day, and destination to determine how soon before the flight you should arrive at the airport. Airlines will give you suggestions for lead times. They recommend more lead time for international flights. Take into consideration, as well, how busy the airport typically is. The last thing you want to do is miss your flight.

14. Check airport monitors for flight information

While it’s great to check your flight status before you leave home, airport monitors are still your best bet for the most up-to-date information. Check them as soon as you arrive. Double-check your gate before you head for the other side of the airport.

15. Call the airline if your flight is cancelled

When flights are cancelled, most people line up at the counter at the gate to try to arrange alternate travel. Sure, get in line. But while you’re standing there, call the airline. There’s a good chance you’ll reach a phone agent before you reach the front of the line.

16. Don’t accept the first voucher on an overbooked flight

If your flight is overbooked, don’t accept the first voucher that comes your way. Airlines typically increase their offer until there are enough volunteers willing to give up their seats. If the airline bumps you involuntarily, insist on cash compensation instead of a voucher.

17. Use the bathroom at the terminal

When we were kids, our mothers used to tell us to use the bathroom before we got in the car for a long trip. The same applies to airplane travel. Use the bathroom in the terminal before you board your flight. Airplane bathrooms are cramped and inconvenient to use, so if you can avoid having “to go” while in the air, all the better.

18. Get up and move around

On an airplane, you are at a higher risk to develop blood clots, usually in your legs. To help avoid this, get up every once in a while, stretch, and walk around the plane a few times (always easier if you have an aisle seat!). If you’re in a window or middle seat and don’t feel like climbing over your fellow passengers, at least move your body parts. Turn your head slowly from side to side, stretch out your arms, wiggle your fingers and toes, and move your legs up towards your chest. Do these exercises at least once every hour. Not only will this help prevent blood clots, but it will also help you relax.

19. Look before you leave

Whenever you get up to leave, whether when boarding or when leaving the plane, always turn around and make sure you haven’t left anything behind.

20. Sync your sleep

Jetlag is one of the most common problems associated with plane travel. To help you get over jetlag as quickly as possible, try to sync your sleeping pattern with the new time zone. For example, if you’ve flown overnight and arrive at your new destination in the morning, try to stay up all day without sleeping, then go to bed according to the local time.