Between making sure you make it through TSA in enough time to board your flight, managing the sheer boredom on a long flight, or trying to tune out the crying toddler a few rows behind you, traveling can be quite stressful. Travel + Leisure interviewed Lauren Guilfoyle, an Emirates flight attendant, to find out seven travel tips that will make your travel smooth sailing.

1. Travel Tip-Download entertainment ahead of time 

You don’t want to be caught off guard if your airline provides movies you aren’t a huge fan of.

“Before heading to the airport, I like to download a few hours of shows, movies, and podcasts to take my mind off the airport chaos,” Guilfoyle said. “Emiratesactually allows passengers to create their in-flight playlist before heading onboard. All they have to do is log in to The Emirates App and create a playlist from Emirates’ 4,500 channels of movies, shows, podcasts, and music. Once onboard, simply sync the playlist to the seatback TV and enjoy hours of non-stop entertainment.”

Make sure to check your airline’s website before heading to the airport to see what entertainment options are available to you.

2. Pack an Extra Charger

An extra charger is always a smart idea.

“What’s worse than losing luggage? A dead phone. I recommend packing a portable charger to avoid drained batteries or wandering through the airport searching for an outlet,” Guilfoyle said.

3. Travel Tip-Try to exercise or at least stretch before departure

“Long haul flights can mean fatigue, grogginess, and poor blood circulation,” she said. “If possible, try to exercise before a flight.” If you don’t have time you could always try doing a few pushups in the air too.

4. Leave earlier than you think you need to

Missing a flight is probably the worst thing that could happen when you’re traveling. Make sure to leave with more than enough time to make it through security and bag check. Plus, you’ll have plenty of time to grab a coffee pre-flight, which is always a win.

“Time is a major stress factor for travelers. Do what you can to get ahead — whether it’s packing the day before, leaving your office early, or getting a head start on traffic,” Guilfoyle explained. “If you’re traveling with other people, don’t be afraid to tell them to show up earlier than you plan on leaving to give yourselves a cushion.”

5. Make some time for yourself

“In between the chaos of a crowded airport during the holidays, be sure to take some time for yourself,” Guilfoyle astutely noted. “Whether it’s meditation, putting on a facemask or treating yourself to a nice dinner, give yourself time to take a breath and recalibrate your emotions.”

6. Dress for Comfort

Comfort is key! Who wants to be traveling in jeans and dress shoes when you could be wearing leggings or sweats?

“Over the years, I’ve come to realize how important it is to dress for comfort when traveling. I recommend wearing comfortable shoes for rushing through the airport or walking to and from your car, wear layers to prepare for any temperature, and making sure your outfit is one you can relax in for a 16-plus hour flight,” she said. “When you’re rushing to catch a flight, the last thing you want to worry about is a broken heel or itchy top.”

7. Big Travel Tip-Catch up on sleep

A long plane ride is the perfect place to catch up on some sleep!

“My top recommendation? Snag noise-cancelling headphones and flip up your ‘do not disturb’ sign to make sure your zzz’s are uninterrupted.”

For more travel related news and information, click here.