Of course, there’s no problem if you go first class in a lay-flat seat and private space. It’s the easiest tho much more expensive way to go. But even in a cheap seat you can find ways to make a restful air trip to dreamland.

Of course, if your economy seat mate is very fat, smelly and/or a misbehaving child, the task is more difficult, but can be done. Wear loose, comfy clothes and shoes. Choose a late-night redeye flight, because your body and brain will be in natural sleep mode. And chances of a quieter aircraft cabin and fewer kids are better.

If your flight is for early morning, sleep at home for a couple of hours the night before. And don’t eat heavy preflight food nor drink burpy liquids. If booze helps you sleep, drink a shot before boarding. When you settle down as the flight begins, play soft music into your earphones, wear an eye mask, brimmed hat and enter peaceful dreamland.

If aware of prices outside the airport, you’ll soon realize everything inside costs twice as much or worse. Of course, the biggest rip-offs are souvenirs. Does your cousin really need a $25 cup with a picture of the Eiffel Tower on it? Or your grandson a $5 London Bridge t-shirt for $40?

Or a $5 candy bar that costs $1 at your corner grocery. Savings also apply to items related to flight, such as a $30 neck pillow you can buy at Sears for $10, and a $20 sleep mask you can get at CVS for $5. Think before taking long flights that’ll require you to bring home souvenirs and other purchases. Skip overpriced airport shops and buy them at regular stores.

Fortunately, chances are very slim that you’ll have a Titanic type of disaster on your next cruise. However, it’s smart to be prepared, just in case.

When you go aboard, in your suitcase include a pair of thick-sole shoes and waterproof pouch for prescription meds, wallet, IDs and jewelry. Also, if you may need to spend time in a lifeboat, pack snacks and small flask of water.

Some U.S. airports offer a unique service designed to reduce the typical problems passengers face as they endure busy terminals. In the Los Angeles facility it’s LAX PUP (Pets Unstressing Passengers).

The trained canines roam the waiting areas with volunteer handlers and offer friendly muzzles and wagging tails. They meet close-up with people worried about late schedules, cancellations, crying kids and all the other airport woes. When you have a future flight scheduled, check online with your airport to find out if you’ll meet a doggone new friend there to welcome you.