Hydrate excessively so you can avoid jet lag. One week prior to your flight, drink as little soda and caffeine as you can and drink as much water as possible. Your body takes time to rehydrate, and the flight will significantly dehydrate you, which adds to jet lag. To avoid this, drink up. While you can't take water through security at the airport, you can buy a big bottle once you are through security. Take it with you on the flight to keep yourself hydrated.
Moisturize your skin. Hydrating your body includes taking care of your skin. A long overseas flight can leave your skin feeling dry. Avoid this by doing a full body moisturization the day before your flight. Carry some hand lotion with you to keep the skin on your hands from getting dry and uncomfortable.
Bring food with you. Airlines have cut way back on the amount of food they offer on a flight. With little choice in what you can eat on a flight, bringing your own food allows you to make healthier choices and stave off any hunger pangs on the flight if you don't like what is offered.
Dress comfortably. Wear clothing that breathes and allows for easy movement. Dress in layers as the temperature of the airline cabin can be unpredictable. Choose clothes that won't wrinkle as you sit in them for hours on end.
Don't overpack your carry-on bag. A heavy bag will not make your journey any better. You don't want to nurse a sore shoulder for eight hours in an uncomfortable airline seat. Pack only what you think you will need to get by until you can access your luggage.
Never take a sleeping pill. If something happens and you need to evacuate the plane or be alert, the sleeping pill will hinder you. It can also add to the jet lag you'll feel when you get off the plane.
Bring a lot of entertainment. Load up your MP3 player with some new tunes, bring along your favorite magazines or load up your e-reader with some new books. Include word puzzles or a deck of cards to pass the time.
