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Stay hydrated during the flight
Pressurized airplane cabins are dehydrating , and altitude affects your need for liquid , so it ’ s important to drink plenty of fluids during your flight . Avoid coffee and alcoholic beverages , as these are dehydrating . Dry skin can be an issue — especially in the pressurized atmosphere of an airplane cabin . Use an atomizer ( or even a small pump bottle ) to hydrate your face . Regular moisturizing lotion is fine — but eye cream is even better , because it ’ s richer than regular cream . You ’ ll arrive feeling fresher .
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Clear your sinuses
You probably already know that you can relieve ear pressure while flying by chewing gum or swallowing frequently . You can also take an antihistamine or decongestant about 45 minutes before boarding . Then , just before boarding , squirt some nasal spray in each nostril , and pop your ears . Here ’ s how : keep your mouth shut , and try to blow air out your nose while holding your nostrils shut . This clears your eustachian tubes , which can swell as the cabin pressure changes , and cause ear pain . It ’ s especially important to do this if you feel a cold coming on , because if fluids get trapped in your tubes , an infection can develop .
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Take a nap to get over jet lag
Set your watch to the destination time as soon as you get on the plane . Upon your arrival , take a two-hour nap — nothing longer . Then , even if you are still tired , force yourself to get up , shower , and get into the swing of things . You should begin to feel better the next day .
IN-SEAT EXERCISES CAN HELP YOU FEEL RELAXED
Neck : Move your head back and forth and from side to side to relieve neck tension .
Shoulders : Loosen your shoulder muscles by shrugging .
Feet : Point your feet and wiggle your toes . Lift your feet off the ground and rotate your ankles .
Hands : Flex your hands and spread your fingers wide , then make a fist .
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