Dear Betsy, I find myself on a plane more often than is good for me, but it is my job and it has to be done. Most of my travel involves flying either to the US and Canada or Australia and New Zealand so I am finding jet lag to be a real problem. Can you offer any advice on how best to overcome jet lag?

Mr J. T. Neil

Dear Mr Neil,

Travel is not nearly so much fun these days, especially with all the security restrictions and doubly so if it is for business rather than pleasure. Bearing this in mind, you should try to dress appropriately when travelling.

Try to avoid wearing jewellery and belts or passing through security could take much longer as you will have to keep undressing. 'Dressing down' takes on a whole new meaning for today's savvy frequent flyer.

It is important to plan ahead when you are travelling so frequently. Try to always keep a bag packed with your travel necessities, replenishing it as soon as you arrive back. Toileteries, brush, comb, razor, cufflinks, spare eyeglasses, medications, vitamins, underwear, socks, swimwear, sports outfits and trainers. This means that all you have to add are your business suits, shirts, ties and shoes.

I think that this type of preparation removes a lot of travel stress. The other type of important preparation is to prepare your body and mind.

It is not simply enough to drink a lot of water on the flight, you need to ensure you are properly hydrated a minimum of 48 hours in advance and that means drinking at least two litres of water a day.

Cutting down on alcohol and caffeine in those 48 hours as well as on board is also a great help. Eating little and often is better for you rather than a typical heavy three-course business class meal. Many airlines have recognised this and offer lighter menu with the added option of snacking on demand. Just try to make sure those snacks are healthy and include fruits, juices and salads. If you are not fortunate enough to be flying business class, then take along some healthy snacks.

Regular short walks to the toilet or around the plane if possible or even exercising your feet, legs and arms in situ should be done every hour or so. You will find suggested exercises in the in-flight magazine.

Once you reach your destination, I suggest you take a brisk walk in the fresh air or visit the hotel gym and use the treadmill.

If it is daylight then the outdoor walk is the best option as exposure to daylight will help your body clock to adjust.

Forget about what the time is at home and immediately adapt to the local time and related activities as this is the fastest way to get your body in sync. For example, if you arrive at night and it is bedtime, do some exercise, have a hot shower or bath, eat a light meal and retire to bed, even if you don't feel tired.

If you have difficulty sleeping then a cup of chamomile tea, a few drops of lavender oil on your pillow and a good book will all help you nod off.

Think 'local' and your body will follow. It is no good telling yourself you are tired and if you were at home, then right now you would be asleep rather than facing a two hour meeting. A positive attitude and a good laugh will keep you on track, so take your favourite comedy DVD with you so you can watch it on your laptop.

Other stress-less travel tips that can help smooth your trip include using online check in facilities, pre-booking your favorite seat, organising transport to and from the airport, online hotel reservations and confirming all of your business appointments in advance, by email and a follow up re-confirmation telephone call when you arrive.

I hope this helps you and enhances your business trips.

Do you have a favourite travel tip you would like to share with us?

Email betsymathieson@hotmail.com