Cope with the travails of intercontinental flight

Being forced to sit for long periods in an uncomfortable airplane seat just adds to your woes (unless you are flying executive class!).
Simple tips to help you cope with the travails of intercontinental flight are as follows:

• The dry air in aircraft causes dehydration. Therefore, drink plenty of fluids (non-alcoholic only!) to counter water loss. Water is better than coffee, tea or fruit juices. Alcohol is not only useless in combating dehydration, but also brings about a markedly greater intoxicating effect when consumed in the rarefied atmosphere of an airliner than it does at ground level.
• Blindfolds, earplugs, neck rests and blow-up pillows are all used in helping you get quality sleep while flying.
• Get as much exercise as you can in the plane; for instance, by walking up and down the aisle, standing for spells and performing small twisting and stretching exercises in your seat. All of these help reduce discomfort, especially the swelling of legs and feet. If possible, get off the plane at stopovers, and perform some exercises or take a walk.