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Turning left into first class as you board a plane is a privilege most of us don’t experience too often – if at all – in our lifetimes. But flying economy doesn’t have to be unpleasant or uncomfortable.
The secret to travelling in style – no matter where you’re seated – is being prepared. Here’s how to make your next flight feel extra-special, even without the comforts of first class.
Carry-on comforts
The first step to flying economy like a frequent flyer is packing like one. Lay out the contents of your carry-on beforehand, to ensure that you only take what you need. A change of clothes for the other end is a good idea, in case your hotel room isn’t ready when you arrive.
Ensure your cosmetics case is complete with travel-friendly skincare essentials (turn to page 46 for our must-haves). Business and first-class guests often receive high-end toiletry kits, but there’s no reason why you can’t pack your own mini amenities, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste and disinfectant wipes, to elevate your experience.
Front-of-plane guests are also treated to practical items to help make sleep easier during the flight. Follow their lead by investing in a good-quality neck cushion or plush travel pillow and earplugs. A good-quality eye mask can also be a game-changer for getting some shuteye, especially during daylight flights. A compact throw blanket can also serve multiple purposes. Use it to stay warm, add padding to your seat or create a more comfortable sleeping environment.
Top tip: Combat stiffness and improve circulation by doing simple in-seat exercises and stretches. Ankle rolls, seated marches, and neck stretches can keep your blood flowing and muscles relaxed.
Entertainment essentials
Keep boredom at bay with your favourite book, a fully loaded e-reader or a tablet with movies and TV shows. Keep all your devices ready with a portable charger – this is especially useful if your seat doesn’t have a built-in power outlet – and don’t forget your travel adaptors if you’re heading to a different country. Noise-cancelling headphones are great to drown out noise, immerse yourself in entertainment or catch some much-needed zzzs.
Upgrade your experience
Airplane food can be hit or miss. Skip the standard offering and pack your own gourmet snacks instead. If your airline offers complimentary beverages when you’re flying economy, ask for a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime. It’s a small touch that can make your drink feel more upscale. Bringing your own tea bags or instant coffee can also elevate your drink options significantly.
Best seat in the house
Not all seats are created equal. Many airlines offer seats with additional space for a small fee. If you have a little cash to splash, upgrade your seating choice and invest in one with a little extra legroom. On a budget? When booking your flight, aim for a window seat if you plan to sleep as it gives you something to lean against, as well as control over the window shade, or choose an aisle seat for more legroom.
When it comes to getting an upgrade, it does pay to be a member of a loyalty programme. If a cabin is overbooked, it tends to be frequent flyers who are upgraded and solo travellers are also more likely than groups to be bumped up a class.
Sky-high fun
Beyond the colouring and puzzle books, there are plenty of ways to keep kids entertained onboard
1. 20 questions
One person thinks of something and the others have 20 questions to figure out what it is. The questions must prompt yes or no answers.
2. Cards
Bring a deck of cards for games like Go Fish, Crazy Eights or Old Maid. Use flashcards for learning new words, math facts or trivia questions.
3. Travel journal
Give your child a journal to draw or write about their travel experiences. They can document what they see out the window while flying economy, the places they’re visiting and their feelings about the trip.
4. Magnetic games
Bring miniature magnetic versions of board games like chess, checkers or Snakes and Ladders.
5. Pipe cleaners
Bring a pack of colourful pipe cleaners for creative, mess-free crafting. Kids can make shapes, animals or bracelets.
6. Alphabet game
Find items around you that start with each letter of the alphabet. Take turns with each letter.
7. Travel bingo
Create or print out bingo cards with pictures or words related to travel and the airplane environment (e.g., a seatbelt, a pilot, a wing etc). Kids can mark off items as they spot them.
8. Surprise bags
Prepare small surprise bags with toys, snacks or activities to be opened at different points during the flight. The anticipation can be very exciting!
Do you have any clever tips and tricks for keeping the kids entertained on a long journey? Share them with us! Email [email protected]
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