(ARA) – It pays to have an optimistic attitude when you go to the airport. Everyone knows that the frustrations passengers face today are quite different than in the past, but some of discomforts have been around since air travel started. Whether you’re dealing with long security lines or uncomfortable seats, a little preparation and a positive attitude can make the skies a little bit friendlier.

Focusing on your health and comfort are essential for a pleasant flight. And even in the terminal, you can take steps to stay healthy and comfortable. For instance, while many women now choose slip-on shoes to make the shoe removal requirement easier, walking in bare feet isn’t the best idea. Tossing a pair of small socks – or even the small nylons used for trying on shoes – in your handbag is an easy solution.

Once you’re on the plane, you’ll have a whole different set of concerns. Consider these tips to stay healthy and make your flight comfortable.

* Stop ear pain. Almost everyone who has flown has experienced that painful pressure in their ears. If you’re particularly sensitive to ear pain, have a cold or sinus problems, it can make the prospect of getting on a plane daunting, no matter how appealing the final destination. Travel earplugs like EarPlanes look like ridged earplugs, but they slow down the rapid changes in pressure that cause discomfort. According to the Mayo Clinic, barotrauma or “airplane ear” can be severe enough to actually rupture your eardrum, so mitigating the pressure is important. There is even a small size for children who experience ear discomfort; both sizes can be found at drugstores, mass merchants, airport shops or online at www.earplanes.com.

* Be mindful of blood clots. When you sit for long periods of time, blood clots can form in the deep veins of your body, often in your legs – this is called deep vein thrombosis. Symptoms might include swelling, pain, redness or warmth where the clot has formed. Deep vein thrombosis can develop into a life-threatening pulmonary embolism, the signs of which include shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness and anxiety. However, some instances of deep vein thrombosis also disappear on their own. To keep the problem at bay, make sure that you get up and move around a bit, or if that isn’t possible, exercise your calf muscles and move your feet.

* Cut down on germs. The things you touch on airplanes have been touched by lots of other people, and that’s a recipe for spreading germs. Being in a confined environment doesn’t help either, so it’s important to keep yourself clean and fight those germs. Carrying sanitizing wipes will allow you to wipe down things like tray tables or arm rests, and sanitizing gel is a quick and easy alternative to soap. You can bolster your immune system’s power by eating a healthy diet and getting good sleep before and during your trip, as well.

* Counteract bad air quality. The recycled air onboard your flight can cause problems, not just in keeping germs in the air, but by dehydrating you. The air conditioning blows dry air through the cabin, drying out your skin and body. It’s important to stay hydrated in a number of ways. Drink plenty of fluids, to start. However, avoid caffeinated drinks, as they are dehydrating. You should also keep a good skin moisturizer with you (3 ounces or less, to comply with regulations) for your face and hands, and a lip balm that won’t leave you chapped.

Staying healthy as you travel to your destination is important. Whether you’re going for a business meeting or a long-awaited vacation, you want to feel your best throughout your stay.