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NOW everyone can fly! Indeed, with the low, competitive fares offered by the various airlines, including Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia, many holiday makers are opting to fly. Here’s what you can do to make flying a pleasant experience:

PACKING LIGHT: Plan your packing or you end up putting everything from your wardrobe into the bag just so you’d be prepared for any occasion. To be on a safe side, bring a pair of smart black trousers (or skirt) and shoes as these go well with almost anything. The same applies to accessories. This is important as you don’t want to pull your shoulder muscles when lifting your bag off the luggage carousel. Always pack only what is absolutely necessary.

GET ENOUGH REST: Don’t leave the packing to the last minute. You can pack earlier and add the essential toiletries on the day of the flight. This way, you can get a good restful sleep before the flight and you won’t be feeling irritable during the flight. You’re also less likely to pick up a bug on the plane as your body’s defences are up.

DRINK AND FLY: During the flight, drink as much water as possible though you may need to pace yourself if you don’t want to do the 100m sprint to the toilet every 30mins. Stay away from coffee, tea and the free alcohol as these make you dehydrated. To avoid chapped lips or dry skin, drop a small bottle (make sure it’s less than 100ml) of moisturiser and a lip balm into your carry-on luggage or handbag.

ENJOY THE FLIGHT: Watching films onboard is a good way to pass the time but some people prefer to read a book or listen to music on an MP3. If that’s what makes you tick, bring these on board the flight. It’s important to be in that pleasant space when flying. Parents should note that take-off and landing can be quite hard on young children so bring a teat for toddlers to suck on as this helps relieve the pressure in their ears. Also, pack some of their favourite toys that they can play with onboard.

DRESS COMFORTABLY: The plane cabin is not the place to show off high fashion. In fact, tottering around in precariously high heels is dangerous. Wear jeans, sneakers and loose clothing for comfort. Recently, I realised that my feet was slightly swollen for about two days after a flight. To avoid this, you may want to invest in DVT (deep vein thrombosis) socks. Every hour or so, get up and walk up and down the aisle for 10 minutes to facilitate blood circulation. It helps.

BE AN EARLY BIRD: Try to leave for the airport early so you won’t have to worry even when caught in a traffic jam. Be prepared for any eventuality — like luggage exceeding the allowed limit. If you have time to spare after clearing check-in, relax by browsing through duty-free shops or stopping for a drink and snack at any of the eateries inside the airport. At the Kuala Lumpur International Airport, you can even indulge in a massage at the centre in its satellite building.

Flying without stress

By Laviinia Dhanagunan, New Straits Times | Wed, Jan 20 2010

Flying can be stressful if you don't take steps to ensure a smooth journey.

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