Be aware of travel advisories concerning weather problems, security threats or any other important issue at or on the way to your destination.

Check the airline’s safety record and compare. It is particularly important to do this when you are flying foreign carriers.

Try to book non-stop or direct flights, when possible, to reduce the number of takeoffs and landings. Many accidents occur when the plane is reaching or coming down from a high altitude or speed.

Cover as much skin as possible. Avoid synthetic fabrics if you can.  Some may melt in high heat,  so try wear clothing made of natural fabrics such as wool, cotton, denim or leather.

Stay away from tight or restrictive clothing.  Choose something that is loose or can be made looser.

Avoid high heeled shoes. Wear low heels, preferably leather or canvas.  Laced shoes are better than loafer types because they can be loosened.

Always listen and follow flight attendants instructions. They are there to help keep you safe.

Pay attention to the emergency instructions given at the start of the flight.

Read the safety instruction card in the back of the seat in front of you and know where the flotation device is located.

Think about a plan in the event of an emergency. Know where the emergency exits are, both in the front and rear of the plane. Remember how many rows are between you and the nearest exits. This helps even if smoke blocks your view.

Keep your seat belt fastened at all times when you are in your seat. It will protect you in the event of unexpected turbulence.

Ask the flight attendant to pour refills of hot beverages over the beverage cart rather than over you ! Usually, they will take the cup, refill it and then hand it back.

Don't overdo the alcohol. Cabin pressure causes alcohol to have a much greater affect than it does on the ground. Two drinks equate to four !

Never place heavy items in the overhead storage bins. First, you could hurt your back in doing so and more importantly, those items could fall out on you or someone else and cause injury.

If someone else has stowed overweight items in the overhead storage area, ask a flight attendant to remove them and store them in a safe place.

Try to avoid seats under the overhead compartment.  Many people are injured by heavy items falling on them.

Although planes are pressurized, your ears are very sensitive to the changes in altitude. Landing usually affects people more than take off.

If you are experiencing a head cold, try to clear it up before you need to fly.

If you have an ear infection, you might want to consider postponing the trip or using ground transportation. An ear infection can be terribly painful on a plane and also dangerous to your health. Contact your doctor before hand and let him know your travel plans ask his advice before you leave.

Many people find relief from chewing gum or sucking on candy. Chewing and swallowing relieves pressure on the ears, especially on take off and landing. With small children, be careful to avoid the possibility of them choking during turbulence.

Yawning is a good way clear the ear passages

Nursing a baby can help the child's ear discomfort.

If you sleep on the plane, request a wake up before you begin descent. Landing is usually hard on the ears and while sleeping you swallow less. You may wake up on the ground in pain.

Be sure that pool or ocean water from the vacation is not still lodged in your ears. Buy ear drops and dry out before you fly.

Whatever method you use, continue through take off and landing. That way you will adjust to the change gradually.

Deal with the problem before you leave. 

Adjust your schedule to an earlier or later bedtime or mealtime gradually, a week before you leave.

Change your watch to the new time as soon as you arrive. Help convince your body of the new time.

Remember to drink a lot of water. Most jetlag comes from the body being dehydrated. Alcohol, caffeine and sugar will worsen the effects of dehydration.

Once you are hydrated again, use moderate caffeine and light exercise to help you stay awake. If you want to sleep, choose foods that will help bring on a more natural slumber.

However, avoid rich food so your body can concentrate on catching up with the new time, instead of dealing with heavy digesting.

If you can, try to arrive in the evening, Your body will find it easier to sleep if you arrive after dark. That way you can start the new day rested.

Most people have no problem flying on an airplane. If it's your first flight and you are afraid of becoming ill, ask your doctor for something that will help if needed.  It's unlikely that you will  but it’s too late once you’re on the plane.

Try to get a seat in the middle of the plane. Being seated on the wings will provide a smoother ride.