Everyone would love to fly first or business class if they could afford it but sadly, travelling economy is the reality for most of us.
But who doesn’t crave a little luxury during a long-haul flight? Whether its more room to stretch out or something better to eat than the food you’re being served in economy class.
Here, FEMAIL reveals some simple ways you can upgrade your flight experience to include some comfortable extras – all without needing to spend thousands of dollars.
Who doesn’t crave a little luxe during a long-haul flight? Whether this is more room to stretch out or something better to eat that the food you are being served? (stock image)
1. ENJOY SOME LUXURY LOUNGE TIME
It might be that you’ve long wanted to take some time out in a airline lounge before flying but have found it hard to justify the cost of an expensive membership.
According to Skyscanner, it’s entirely possible to enjoy the perks of a prestigious lounge without having to sign up first.
When travelling outside Australia, check out services such as Lounge Pass, DragonPass or Priority Pass which can offer passes for as little as $30.
If you are a frequent flyer, it’s also possible – depending on your membership – to take advantage of these services, Skyscanner explained.
‘Qantas Club and Frequent Flyer members (of the Gold, Platinum and Platinum One variety) are free to while the pre-boarding hours away in the Qantas lounge. Virgin Australia offers the same benefits to their Velocity Platinum and Gold members.’
2. SEATING IS IMPORTANT
When booking a seat, it’s important to think about what you need for comfort.
A window seat means you won’t have people scrambling over your legs constantly, while a bulkhead seat will give you more leg room – but less space in the front to store carry-on.
There is always the option to choose an exit row seat which is great for extra space, however, the downside is the seats don’t recline.
For those wanting to get really specific, try a site like SeatGuru which offers detailed information on which plane seat perfectly matches your travel needs.
Although there are limitations to the seats you can choose when travelling economy, it is possible to consider you needs ahead of time and make a better choice (stock image)
3. COMFORT IS KING
Who hasn’t spent hours trying to get comfortable while travelling only to find themselves woken by pain from sleeping in an awkward position?
While economy seating is limited in terms of how much relaxation is on offer, you can increase the comfort factor by investing in a couple of key items.
Although a travel pillow is essential, taking an inflatable footrest on board can also make a huge amount of difference, Skyscanner advised.
‘Having your feet slightly raised helps with circulation and reduces the risk of swollen ankles and joint pain.’
Add to that a warm wrap, cosy socks (compression are best), a fitted eye-mask and some noise cancelling headphones, and a good night’s sleep can easily be yours.
Avoid the boredom trap by loading up your device with your favourite podcasts, TV shows and movies – ahead of time so you can while away your hours in style (stock image)
4. PREPARE YOUR OWN IN-FLIGHT BEAUTY KIT
Travelling economy can take its toll on your skin, so why not give yourself the chance to freshen up before you step off the plane.
Business and first-class passengers are often given amenity bags which come with travel-sized beauty products, including the basics like toothbrushes, and combs.
But it’s also entirely possible you can create your own.
Start by packing some travel-sized basics. Include a small packet of makeup wipes, samples of moisturiser, a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste or mints, lip balm. Add a 10ml perfume roller-ball and you’re set.
5. EAT AND DRINK AND BE ENTERTAINED IN STYLE
While your meal choice in economy can be limited, it is possible to bring your own food on board if you’re looking to make your dining experience a little more exciting.
‘Salads, fresh fruit, or even some luxury chocolates from duty-free will jazz up your no-frills meal,’ Skyscanner added.
While an economy class meal won’t match up to a first class spread, it’s possible to take a few extras on board to jazz up your meal (stock image)
Even if you don’t want to go through the hassle of preparing something, you can pack some extra snacks like protein bars or nuts which can help if you get hungry between meals.
It’s also possible to up the style ante by enjoying a glass of wine with your meal in-flight.
Most airlines tend to stock a great selection of alcoholic beverages however it’s worth remembering flying can be dehydrating so drink extra water, no matter what.
While you can expect in-flight entertainment as part of your travel deal – if travelling with Qantas or Virgin – it’s worth remembering other airlines might not offer such an extensive range.
Avoid the boredom trap by loading up your device with your favourite podcasts, TV shows and movies – ahead of time so you can while away your hours in style.