How To Make An Economy Class Flight Feel First Class

Travel. It’s something we all love to do. Exploring new places, experiencing new cultures and trying exotic foods. But who really enjoys the perils of a 16 hour flight? Tight muscles, too little leg room, dehydrated skin and poor in class entertainment. No wonder everyone is always grumpy when disembarking. Of course, paying for a first class ticket is incredibly expensive and for me, I’d much rather use that extra money after arriving at my destination to do all the fun stuff I have planned. That’s why I decided to compile a list on how to make any flight feel like you’ve just sat in first class. It’s easy. Just follow these simple tips.

 

CARRY YOUR COMFORTS

Many airlines will go to extreme lengths to make you feel comfortable and cozy on long haul flights but having your personal luxuries with you can make all the difference. Pack an eye cooling pack into your hand luggage and slip this on to soothe the skin around your eye area. Take a large soft cozy scarf that can double as a throw over if it gets too cold. This is especially helpful if you have sensitive skin and are not a fan of uncomfortable airline blankets.

We all love the feeling of new socks so why not throw an extra pair of new socks in your bag to help your feet feel clean and fresh. At the same time, wear the right shoes. Depending on the altitude and your body, your feet may or may not swell. Having a pair of comfortable sneakers that you can easily slip on and off will make you feel more comfortable. It will also be easier to deal with swollen or painful feet.

 

PRE-LOAD YOUR OWN ENTERTAINMENT

Larger airlines often have a good selection of newly released movies and TV series however, some of these airlines may charge you for them or even have set screening times. Instead of wasting money or missing the first twenty minutes of a movie you’ve been longing to see, load up your electronic devices with your favorite movies, songs and pod casts. Don’t forget to add some of the many must-read books you just haven’t had time to get too yet. That being said, I always carry at least one hard bound book with me. There really is nothing like the feeling of holding an actual book in your hands and the realization that for the next few hours, you have nowhere else to go but straight into the pages of your book.

One of the things I hate the most on airlines is the headphones. They never fit properly, look totally unglamorous and make my ears feel itchy. Having your own personal ear phones with you will not only make you feel comfortable but will also ease you into enjoying the in-flight entertainment a whole lot more.

 

BRING YOUR OWN SNACKS

One of the biggest differences between an economy and first class flight is the food. So why not just bring your own snacks? Healthy low GI snacks are perfect and will last longer and give you a lot more energy. Also be sure to pack dry snacks because many airlines have liquid restrictions of about 100 ml.

 

FRESHEN UP

Dry skin is common when travelling at higher altitudes. Long-haul flights often mean that your regular beauty regime becomes messed up and your skin is left feeling neglected. It doesn’t have to be that way. Investing in travel-sized options of personal skin care items will make all the difference when mid-flight. If you don’t want to spend money on miniature sized versions of the same expensive beauty products, then invest in a set of empty travel sized bottles that will allow you to fill out as much – or as little – of your products as possible.

It’s also a good idea to pack a travel cleansing kit consisting of a little towelette, mini deodorant, a clean top and underwear. This will definitely help you feel more refreshed and comfortable.

 

LEG ROOM

Pre-booking your seats online means that you often have the luxury of choice. I usually select seats that are away from the bathroom and on the aisle. This means that I won’t be disturbed every time someone decides to use the bathroom. Sitting on the aisle also means that you can stretch your legs out into the walkway if needed and you don’t need to scramble over people should you need to go for a walk. If you didn’t have the chance to pre-book your seat online, then arriving early to secure a seat near emergency exits will definitely score you extra leg room.

Do you have any tips to share? I’d love to hear them! Leave me a comment below.