Posted on Thursday, 30 January 2020

The joy of air travel can get a little dull if you take several flights a month for work. Regular flights can also take a toll on your mind and body. Fortunately, there are a number of simple things you can do to help feel refreshed and alert upon arrival.

The following tips are aimed at business travellers, but will be of great use to holidaymakers too.

Get a good night's sleep

We all know sleep is important, but we don't always create the conditions for a good night's rest. Before a flight, turn in early with a cup of sleep-promoting chamomile or peppermint tea. Your mind and body will better able to deal with the rigours of air travel the next day.

Pay a little extra to arrive at a decent hour

Most firms are keen to minimise costs, but booking a colleague on a cheaper flight that arrives at midnight will not promote alertness in the next day's meeting! Whether you book it yourself or have someone else do it, aim to arrive at a decent hour.

Avoid alcohol

It can be tempting to enjoy a glass of wine or two on the plane, especially if your upcoming meeting is a stressful prospect, or if you don't like flying. But alcohol dehydrates you and can ultimately make you feel groggy and tired at the other end. If you do drink, try to keep topped up with water between alcoholic beverages - and certainly afterwards.

Limit caffeine

As well as dehydrating you, tea and coffee block a brain chemical called adenosine which promotes sleep. Cut the joe and you'll have a better chance of catching 40 winks.

Stay hydrated throughout

It's a no-brainer - but drinking plenty of water will help flush out toxins and keep you feeling fresh. Naturally, this may precipitate regular WC trips, so aim to sip rather than guzzle, and try to stay 'topped up' rather than overflowing before you plan to sleep.

Throw off the shoes

You may be surprised by how much better you feel with your shoes off - particularly on a long haul flight.

Say yes to the airline food

Not all airline food is great - but you'll feel better if you eat. If nothing else, make sure you eat the final offered meal before landing, giving you an energy boost to deal with the airport and reaching your hotel.

Remember to book special meals

Business travellers have a lot on their plate - as it were - so it can be easy to forget to book special meals (if required). If you're vegetarian, vegan, lactose intolerant, or have any other dietary requirements, be sure to book your meal at least 24 hours in advance. It's no fun to arrive at your destination hungry! If you do forget to book your special meal, you might consider taking the proffered meal and eating the items you can. E.g. most breakfast trays have some items a vegetarian can eat.

Be active after a long flight

Your heart rate may be rather sluggish after several hours in the air. Get it pumping again by avoiding escalators and lifts, and opt for stairs where possible.

Stretch and (self) massage

Having a good stretch can work wonders for your physical and mental well-being. Find a quiet corner of the airport for a few forward folds. Onboard, do a little light stretching while waiting for the toilet. Likewise, massaging your own neck, shoulders and legs can open up blood flow and make you feel better. And if you have a long layover, consider enlisting a massage professional to knead your weary muscles - these services are very common in Asian airports.

Personal care

The fatigue of air travel can make us forget to take proper care of ourselves during and after a flight. But washing your face and brushing your teeth will put you in a brighter frame of mind. A squirt of perfume/aftershave can also make you feel more ready to face the world. If you forget your favourite “smellie”, take a free sample of the latest Calvin Klein or Lacoste as you pass through Duty Free!

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