Summary
- Book early for extra legroom- maximize comfort in economy class by choosing exit row or bulkhead seats.
- Bid for a neighbor-free flight- Etihad Airways and Qantas offer the option to keep neighboring seats empty for more privacy.
- Enjoy a couch in the skies- transform economy seats into spacious couches for enhanced comfort and rest during long flights.
Flying economy class, especially on long-haul flights, often means dealing with discomfort. Limited legroom, questionable in-flight meals, and the lack of privacy due to being so close to other passengers can make the experience less than pleasant. To help make your journey more bearable, here are some tips to avoid constantly glancing at the front of the cabin and wishing you had splurged on a business class ticket.
1
The early bird does indeed catch the worm
A big worm in the form of legroom, that is
Ever heard of the saying “the early bird catches the worm”? Those words cannot be more true, especially in the case of maximizing your comfort in economy class during a flight.
Photo: Alaska Airlines
By booking your flight well in advance, you have a better chance of selecting a seat that maximizes your comfort. Here are a few tips to ensure you get the best seat in the house, that house being the economy cabin, of course.
- Extra Legroom: Exit rows and bulkhead seats are designed with more space for your legs, allowing you to stretch out comfortably, which is especially beneficial on long-haul flights where being cramped can lead to discomfort and even health issues like deep vein thrombosis.
- Proximity to Front: Seats near the front of the plane can provide a quieter environment, as you are further from the engine noise and the bustling activity around the galleys and restrooms. Additionally, you’ll be one of the first to disembark, saving time if you have a tight connection or are eager to start your journey.
- Private and Peaceful: These seats often see less foot traffic, reducing the number of people walking by or standing near your seat, creating a more private and peaceful experience. This can be particularly valuable during overnight flights when you want to rest.
- Access to Amenities: Sitting closer to the front often means you get meal and drink service sooner, ensuring you get your preferred choice before options run out. It can also mean quicker assistance from the flight attendants if needed.
- Smoother Ride: Seats located over the wings are generally considered to provide a smoother ride during turbulence, as this area is more stable. This can make the flight more comfortable, especially for those who are sensitive to motion or prone to air sickness.
2
Go neighbor-free
It might get a little lonely though
If the thought of flying next to a stranger bothers you, you might be interested in the neighbor-free program offered by some airlines, such as Etihad Airways and Qantas.
Photo: Vincenzo Pace | Simple Flying
The Middle Eastern and Australian carriers allow you to place a bid to keep one, two, or even three neighboring seats empty, giving you more space and privacy. You can submit your bid when booking your flight or anytime between 72 and four hours before departure. The cost varies depending on the destination and the length of the flight.
However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Here are a few pros and cons to opting for a neighborless flight.
|
Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|
|
Increased Space: More room to stretch out and store personal items. |
Additional Cost: As mentioned, you will need to place a (monetary) bid on empty seats. |
|
Enhanced Privacy: Enjoy a more private and peaceful flying experience without a stranger beside you. |
Bid Process: Success is not guaranteed; you may place a bid and still end up with neighbors. |
|
Reduced Disturbances: Fewer chances of being disturbed by a neighboring passenger moving around or using the armrest. |
Limited Availability: Not all airlines offer this program, so options may be limited. |
|
Comfort: Extra space can make it easier to sleep or relax, improving overall comfort. |
Variable Pricing: The cost varies based on destination and flight length. |
|
Control: Ability to ensure a more controlled and comfortable personal space during the flight. |
Not Always Needed: On less crowded flights, you might naturally end up with empty seats nearby without the extra expense. |
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3
A couch in the skies
Enjoy the utmost comfort with fold-out couches
Airlines understand the importance of rest for passengers, which is why some have created economy seats that transform into comfortable couches. For example, Air New Zealand offers the Skycouch, which folds out into a spacious sleeping area measuring 61 inches (1.55 meters) in length and 29 inches (74 centimeters) in width. This setup provides ample room for two adults and a child, making it easier to catch some shut-eye without elbowing your neighbor. It’s like turning your flight into a cozy living room.
Benefits of the Skycouch include:
- Enhanced Comfort: The Skycouch offers a more spacious and comfortable sleeping area compared to standard economy seats, allowing passengers to lie flat and stretch out.
- Increased Privacy: The ability to convert seats into a couch provides a more private space, reducing the usual discomfort of sitting close to strangers.
- Family-Friendly: The design is ideal for families, as it offers enough room for two adults and a child, making the flight more manageable for parents traveling with young ones.
- Flexible Usage: The Skycouch can be adjusted for various needs, from lounging and relaxing to sleeping, providing versatility during long-haul flights.
- Value for Money: While it’s an added expense, the extra comfort and space can make long flights more enjoyable and less physically taxing, potentially justifying the investment.
4
Put together your own amenity kit
Bring your spa with you
To elevate your economy class experience, consider taking a cue from the luxurious business class perks at the front of the cabin. One of the perks of flying business class is the signature amenity kit providing different kinds of spa products. While you might not receive a signature amenity kit in economy, you can still bring your own spa essentials to make your flight more comfortable.
Photo: Delta Air Lines
Here are some items you can bring along on your next economy flight. Just remember to check the departure airport’s Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels (LAG) limit if you are traveling internationally.
- Face cream
- Under-eye gel
- Lip balm
- Toothbrush
- Neck pillow
5
Dress to impress (yourself)
Get cozy with it
Consider wearing layers to easily adjust your outfit for comfort, whether the cabin feels like the Arctic or the tropics. Opt for soft, breathable fabrics that let you move freely and stay comfortable throughout the flight. Also remember to dress for safety, in case of an emergency. For example, stilettos and restrictive clothing may hinder passengers’ ability to evacuate the aircraft in a timely manner.
Photo: British Airways
Here’s a list of what your in-flight wardrobe could possibly look like.
- Comfortable Leggings or Joggers: Stretchy and soft, these provide ease of movement and comfort during long periods of sitting.
- Breathable Cotton T-Shirt or Long Sleeve: A breathable, moisture-wicking to keep you comfortable.
- Layering Cardigan or Lightweight Jacket: Perfect for adjusting to how your body will respond to the temperatures in the cabin and offering warmth when needed.
- Cozy Socks: Soft, warm socks can keep your feet comfortable and warm, especially during chilly flights.
- Neck Pillow and Scarf: A neck pillow for added support and a scarf that doubles as a blanket for extra warmth can enhance your comfort.
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