Flying in economy class can be a challenge, especially on long-haul flights.
After enduring multiple long-haul flights, crisscrossing continents to destinations like Singapore and India, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of making the journey as comfortable as possible.
Long flights in economy class can often leave you feeling drained, frustrated, and downright exhausted.
Often it means navigating cramped spaces and limited amenities.
However, with a bit of planning and a few simple tricks, you can turn your economy flight into a more enjoyable experience.
Travel doesn’t have to be a hassle; it can be enjoyable and comfortable, even in the confines of economy.
Let’s explore some practical strategies to help you get the most out of your trip, leaving annoyance and discomfort behind.
This blog post may contain gifted items and affiliate links. Please note these do not impact my review, and no extra costs have been added to the items mentioned.
How to Make Your Economy Flight More Comfortable
Upgrade to More Legroom or Exit-Row Seating
One of the quickest ways to improve your in-flight comfort is to opt for seats with extra legroom.
When booking your flight, explore airline options for seat upgrades or exit-row seating.
Google searches can lead you to airline websites where you can find information on seat configurations, costs, and availability.
Many airlines offer the option to upgrade to seats with more space, or you can choose exit row seating during the booking process.
This extra legroom can make a significant difference, especially on longer flights, allowing you to stretch out and avoid that cramped feeling.
On our last trip to Singapore, we booked the exit row and had at least 4 ft in front of us to stand and stretch…it was perfect.
These upgrades will usually add a bit more cost to your flight but you won’t regret making it.
Related Post: Must-pack In-flight Items for Stress-free Travel
Aisle seat
Choosing an aisle seat has its perks, especially if you’re someone who likes to move around during the flight.
Aisle seats provide easy access to the restroom and the freedom to stretch your legs without disturbing fellow passengers.
This small change can make a big impact on your overall comfort and convenience.
My husband and I typically book two aisle seats next to each other for domestic flights. On longer International flights, we book aisle and middle seats.
If we book a window seat, we know we will have to wake someone up multiple times during the flight to exit the row and that’s never fun. Plus, I notice I get up a lot less when I sit in a window seat
Opting for an aisle seat allows you to move without disrupting your seatmates. You ended up staying hydrated because you don’t have the fear of needing to get up every hour to use the restroom and disturb those in your aisle. Plus, you’ll get up more and walk around.
Aisle seats are 100 percent the way to travel for long flights, especially in economy.
Related Post: Tips for First-Time Travelers
Elevate your Legs
Combat the negative effects of prolonged sitting by elevating your legs.
Bring a small stool or footrest to place under the seat in front of you.
Alternatively, consider using a portable hammock designed for airplane travel. The inflatable footrests are also a great option but only if you have upgraded to more leg room.
Elevating your legs can improve circulation and reduce discomfort, making your journey more pleasant.
I didn’t believe it until our first trip to Singapore when my thighs started hurting after 10 hours and then my feet started to swell.
I immediately put on my compression socks and put my feet on my bag to raise my legs up a bit off the seat. On our second trip to Singapore, I didn’t even question whether to pack the compression socks and footrest – it was a MUST.
Because we purchased the exit row seating with extra legroom, we packed tiny footrests for us to use. The hammock-type footrests are great if you have seats in front of you but if you have extra room then definitely purchase a foldable footstool or an inflatable one.
Part of enjoying your trip/flight is being comfortable. And you won’t be comfortable with swollen ankles and throbbing legs. Upgrade your travel kit to include some way to elevate your feet and purchase some good compression socks to help you stay comfortable during your journey.
Sleeping Essentials
The most difficult part of an economy flight is getting good sleep.
To ensure you get some quality sleep during your flight be sure to pack a few essentials.
Invest in good neck pillows. I’m planning on adding a second type of pillow to my travel kit to make sure I’m getting the best sleep I can.
A weighted eye mask is another must-pack that has changed the way I sleep on a flight.
Creating a comfortable sleeping routine can significantly enhance your overall travel experience.
Before your next flight, check out reviews to find the sleep essentials that match your needs and honestly, grab everything you can. Getting proper sleep is essential and will make your trip a lot more comfortable.
Hydration Routine
Staying hydrated is crucial during air travel, as the cabin environment tends to be dry.
Put together a hydration routine that includes drinking plenty of water, adding electrolytes, using the restroom regularly, and moisturizing your skin to combat dryness.
Another big tip is to not forget to apply sunscreen. I applied and reapplied my sunscreen 3-4 times on each long-haul flight.
A moisturizing eye mask can help to rehydrate your skin and help with relaxation.
Long flights can leave you feeling dehydrated and tired, but a well-established hydration routine can counteract these effects.
Pack Protein Rich Snacks
Boost your energy levels during the flight by packing protein-rich snacks.
While airlines will provide a few snacks during the flight, it’s nothing compared to what you’ll want or need. Especially if you’re on a long international flight spanning 15+ hours.
Our first 15+ hour flight we packed a ton of snacks but not nearly enough protein snacks. After a full day flying the sugar starts to take a toll and doesn’t really help with energy levels.
On our second trip we packed salami and cheese from the previous night. We kept it with some ice to keep it cold. And about 9 hours into the flight, it saved my life.
The protein helped so much with the sluggish and crampy feelings.
Pack whichever protein snacks you like best.
We love protein bars, meat and cheese wraps, trail mix, jerky, etc. Find what you like and pack it.
Choose Enough Entertainment
Long flights can sometimes feel endless, especially without sufficient entertainment.
Pack a variety of options for yourself, such as movies, books, and podcasts, to keep yourself engaged throughout the journey.
Create a personalized in-flight entertainment playlist or download your favorite shows and movies before the trip.
Having diverse options ensures you won’t run out of things to do, making the time fly by.
Additionally, if you enjoy hands-on activities, bring a crossword puzzle book, a travel-sized board game, or even knitting supplies to creatively pass the time.
Enjoying Your Economy Flight
So, whether you’re a frequent flyer or gearing up for your first long-haul adventure, incorporating these strategies into your travel routine can turn your economy flight into a more enjoyable and comfortable experience.
Whether you’re upgrading your seat, prioritizing sleep, or maintaining a healthy hydration routine, these small adjustments can make a big difference in how you feel upon arrival.
Let me know if I missed any tips that help you through economy flights.
Have a safe and wonderful journey! I can’t wait to see where you go next!
XOXO,
Julia
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