1. Pocket some stuff

If I'm flying with a low-cost carrier that is narky about carry-on luggage, I always reweigh my bag just before I arrive at the gate. If I'm worried it's too close to 7 kilograms, some stuff goes in my pockets!

Pockets are always part of the ritual, actually. Before I board any flight, I make sure my phone and Kindle are in my jacket pocket that's on "window side", so I can get at them without elbowing the poor soul in the middle seat.

Angus Kidman, travel expert at Finder

2. Have corded construction earplugs and a keepcup handy

As a very light sleeper I'm all about corded construction earplugs; I pop a pair in my pocket before I settle into my seat on a long-haul flight. If they fall out in-flight, there's no risk of losing them and being kept awake by snorers.

Now it's acceptable to use keepcups again post-Covid, I always keep one in my carry-on. Not only does it help to reduce waste but reusable cups typically have room for a more generous wine pour, and in my experience, most flight attendants are happy to oblige.

Sarah Reid, Escape contributor

3. Hang back and people watch

Something I always do immediately before boarding a plane is sit and watch at the boarding gate as fellow passengers employ tactics both sneaky and blatantly obvious to get on that plane before their row is called. And since I know I will be sitting on that plane as soon as I board, I figure, why not just sit at the gate instead, and avoid the high likelihood of being stood in a queue behind that one person who has really taken the relaxing of the social distancing rules to the extreme.

Kate Symons, travel expert

4. Fill up on tea

I travel several times a year and before I board a plane I always have a large cup of peppermint or chamomile tea - which is always available from an airport cafe. This a great hydration hack for starting the trip off well but it's also intended to make you sleepy so that it's easier to nod off early in the flight, right after the meal service if there is one.

Kate Slater, travel writer and blogger behind KateAbroad.com

5. Take your make up off

ALWAYS remove make up to let your skin breathe! I also buy facial mist spray and a moisturising face mask at the airport, then apply it during the flight. You guessed it - hydration baby!

Catrina McGrail, ex flight attendant and CEO of 24 Hours Layover

6. Place a few items in the spare seat next to you

I was hesitant on giving my insight into this because I don't want everyone knowing this trick. BUT I know I can trust this reader. When you get to your seat on the plane (unless your seat neighbours are already there), place your jacket or handbag on the seat next to you. Doing this will "mark" that seat as yours so if no one has booked it then it's all yours  to stretch out and occupy for the entire flight. It doesn't often happen these days, with so many flights fully booked out, however it is a joy when you get the chance to enjoy that rarest of all inflight treasures - extra space!

Nathan Varney, Travel Expert, Flight Centre Queen St in Brisbane.

7. Book early to choose your seat

There’s nothing more important when flying than getting a good seat – it’s the difference between a good or bad flight. Seat 2C is my personal pick – front of the plane, on the aisle and importantly, first choice at meal service. If that’s not available, I am also keen on seats in aisles 3 to 10, or even the emergency exit for a little extra leg room.

Daniel Finch, Expedia Managing Director