THESE DAYS, YOUR journey can almost be as enjoyable as the holiday afterwards.

We’ve entered the era of comfortable seats, great inflight service and incredible destinations just hours away. So here’s our guide to getting the most from your plane journey. All aboard…

A new way to pack

Roll your clothes, don’t fold them. They’ll take up far less space in your luggage and also be less wrinkled when you unpack.

Image: Carrology

Wiggle room

Slip-on shoes are your dearest friend when undertaking a long journey. Not only are they easy to remove during security checks but also for taking off during the flight. And make sure you wear socks – not only will you be more comfortable, no one wants to be barefoot in public, right?

Image: My Deals

Sound of silence

Two words: Ear plugs. Shut out any noise you don’t want to hear, whether on the plane or in the airport. Instant calm.

Image: Inventor Spot

Enough of that carry on

With the inflight entertainment these days being better than a trip to the multiplex, it’s better to travel light. You won’t need your book, music or puzzles – so just take the basics, like hand sanitiser, face wipes and lip balm. If you have a stop-over and want to refresh, a change of clothing could make your journey all the more pleasant.

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And don’t forget airport liquid restrictions!

Back up

Store copies of vital documents online with applications like Evernote and Dropbox. If technology isn’t your thing, you can even try something as easy as scanning your passport and emailing it back to yourself.

Image: I Don’t Wanna Grow Up

Think about where you’re arriving

It might be cold here, but it’ll be hot where you’re landing. Wear loose, easily-removed and comfortable layers.

Image: Chucklebot

And finally, the real key to enjoying a long haul flight is taking the time to book it in advance – then you can fully prepare to do nothing but relax and explore your destination.

Check out how booking now with Emirates could enhance your holiday at emirates.com/ie or call +353 1 517 1600 for more information.

Don’t forget, book by 2nd September 2013 for outbound travel until 13th April 2014, excluding 14th to 31st December 2013. Fares are based on return travel from Dublin via Dubai, subject to availability and inclusive of taxes and charges.