Qatar Airways country manager for Australasia, Adam Radwanski says the key to Christmas travel is preparation. Here’s his best tips plus a few of our own:

1. Travelling families

Arrive early for check in, or check in online beforehand to ensure you’re seated together.

Also, make the most of priority boarding for families with kids by being ready to go as soon as the boarding gate opens so you’ve got time to settle in with your family for the flight.

It is also important to explain the travel process to your children beforehand so they know what to expect. Let them know what to anticipate about the takeoff and landing experience as well, and consider providing them with some gum, a sweet or a bottle of water to help ease ear pressure during this time.

2. Pack for the flight

Make sure your carry-on contains things that will help you rest, like neck pillows, eye masks, earplugs, and help you freshen up before arrival — like eye-drops and a toothbrush and paste are a good idea.

3. Food and beverages

Eat well on the flight and limit alcohol intake to avoid feeling dehydrated. Drink plenty of water. If you have dietary requirements, notify your carrier at least 24 hours before your flight to avoid disappointment.

4. Plan for on-board entertainment

One of the best ways to enjoy a long-haul flight is to plan your in-flight entertainment on-board in advance. Qatar has an on-board planning tool that allows you to pre-plan what movies you can watch. Or download your favourite shows and movies to your own tablet.

Some more tips:

5. Pack light

Avoid checking a bag in altogether and take carry-on luggage only. You can head straight for the security line when you hit the airport and skip the baggage carousel when your flight lands.

6. Prepare for the security line

Know what you can and can’t take through security before you go. Australian international airports place quantity limits for liquids, aerosols and gels that passengers can take on-board with them. These items must be in containers of 100mL or 100 grams or less and must fit into a resealable plastic bag.

Prohibited items on-board include sporting goods, kitchen utensils, tools, and other items with sharp edges or points capable of injuring someone. If you are not sure whether an item is prohibited, check with your airline, pack it in your checked baggage or leave it at home.

7. Plan for flight delays

Don’t expect your plans to go off without a hitch, plane delays can cause havoc to your itinerary. Pack extra food and any medication you may need in your carry-on as well as chargers for tablets and phones. If you have connecting flights, make sure there’s enough of a buffer between flights should delays occur.