Being cramped into an airplane with hundreds of other passengers can be uncomfortable. However, the thought of relaxing or holidaying to your dream destination, perhaps in a beautiful tropical island, can make the long and uncomfortable flights worthwhile. But this doesn’t mean you can’t do anything to make the flying experience a better one.

Here are some essential information to make your flight as smooth as it can be:

TIP #1 – If Possible, Travel Light

If you can pack all your things into one carry-on baggage, the better. Having baggage checked in can be one of the most stressful things in your flight. Waiting for your bag once you’ve arrived can be such a headache. You’ve just landed on a beautiful place – you wouldn’t want to spend your first 30 minutes waiting for your luggage.

To make things easier, make sure your bag does not exceed the allowed baggage of 58 x 34 x 23 cm and does not exceed 7 kg. Once you board on the plane, easily place your baggage in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

Bringing carry-on baggage is one of the best ways to have a smooth flight every time.

TIP #2 – Request Special Meals in Advance

If you’re vegetarian, vegan, lactose intolerant or if you need infant food, or kosher or Muslim meals, you have to arrange a special request upon reservation or at least 48 hours before your flight.

You wouldn’t want to go hungry when there are still 8 more hours of your flight before you land. Always make sure when you book your flight that the airline can provide you with your special request for meals. If not, then you might want to use another airline for your trip.

TIP #3 – Request for Specialty Items

If you’re traveling with kids and their toys are inside their checked in luggage, you may request for some toys from the cabin attendants if they have it. If you’re cold and one blanket isn’t enough, then you can simply request for an extra blanket.

If you’re uncomfortable and you need a certain item, don’t be shy to ask the attendants and they’ll be more than happy to make your flight as comfortable as ever.

TIP #4 – Alcohol Use

Only alcoholic beverages that are served by the cabin attendants are allowed to be consumed. Some airlines offer alcohol for free while others charge a fee. However, you must take note that flying causes dehydration and the smallest amounts of alcohol can make you intoxicated very easily.

So always drink in moderation or one shot or glass will do. Attendants have the right to refuse serving alcohol to passengers who may see intoxicated.

TIP #5 – Get a Good Seat

You can only get good seats if you reserve one upon reservation or by checking in early at the airport. People have different views in terms of what a good plane seat is.

If you’re tall, an emergency exit or standard exit row seat is best for you. These seats offer more legroom and more space to lean against a window – so you can have the right amount of space to get comfortable.

If you’re traveling light and want to get off the plane faster, row seats and back row seats are the most ideal for you, especially for short flights. It is also important to note that back seats are very noisy so if you’re okay with that, then the best seat for you is the back row seat.

However, if it’s a long haul flight, the best option for anyone who wants to be comfortable is in the middle of the plane by the window – because it has more room to lean against when you sleep.

Generally, passengers must avoid seats near the lavatory and galleys.

The anticipation of traveling to the beautiful islands and holiday destinations that you always dreamed of can be very exciting. Don’t let an awful flight ruin the excitement – follow these tips to have a smooth sailing flight, so your dream vacation jumps off to a great start.