Flying economy class, especially on long-haul flights, is often synonymous with an uncomfortable experience. Think of the limited legroom, questionable in-flight meals, and lack of privacy linked to the proximity to the other passengers. To improve this experience, here are some tips to help you avoid constantly looking at the front of the cabin wishing you had bought a business class ticket.
1 Some basic onboard exercises
"Your body is a temple." There are a lot of occasions when you should keep this saying in mind. One of these is when seated in an economy class seat where the reduced space is the primary cause of discomfort during your flight.
Therefore, the first strategy to maximize your well-being onboard is to do some simple exercises. First, you want to relax your calves. Keeping your feet firmly on the floor, raise your toes a few inches, then your heels. It would be best if you also took care of your ankles. After raising your foot a few inches, wiggle it with a circular movement clockwise, keeping the ankle steady. Finally, you'd better relax your quadriceps as well. Bend your legs and lift them alternately, bringing the knees toward the chest while staying upright with the torso. All these movements should be repeated ten times per minute.
To keep your upper body awake, you should relax your shoulders by sitting straight and stretching your spine. Make a rolling movement with your shoulders while holding your neck and arms steady. You can also repeat this movement ten times per minute. Additionally, you should keep your elbows close to your sides, raising both forearms and touching your shoulders with your hands, repeating the movement 20 times per minute.
2 Go neighbor-free
If you can't endure the idea of flying next to a stranger, you might be interested in the neighbor-free program offered by some airlines like Etihad Airways.
The Middle Eastern carrier gives a chance to offer a bid to keep one, two, or three neighboring seats empty for improved space and privacy. The bid can be submitted when booking your flight or between 72 and four hours before departure. The cost will vary according to the destination and the flight length.
3 Economy seats as a couch
Airlines know how resting plays an essential role for any passenger. Therefore, some carriers have developed economy seats that turn into proper couches. For instance, Air New Zealand's Skycouch folds out into a suitable sleeping space, coming in at 61 inches (1.55 m) long and 29 inches (74 cm) wide, providing enough room for two adults and a child.
4 Crete your own spa
Something you could do to enhance your economy class experience is to be inspired by what happens behind the business class curtains.
One of the perks of flying business class is the signature amenity kit providing different kinds of spa products. Although you won't get one in economy class, it does not mean you can't bring your own. Think of face creams, under-eye gel, eye drops, moisturizer, lip balm, face wipes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste. Just remember to pack everything in travel-sized miniature bottles that do not exceed 100 ml.
5 As easy as it gets
As banal as it may sound, keeping hydrated is vital to enhancing your well-being onboard a flight.
Bring a bottle of water with you and drink regularly throughout the flight. It is recommended not to drink alcohol before and even during the trip. While seated, avoid keeping your legs crossed for long periods and, if possible, stand up frequently and stretch your legs in the aisle. Notably, if you are returning from a diving holiday, you should wait 24 hours after your last dive before boarding a plane to minimize the risks associated with decompression illness.
Have you ever tried any of these tips? Let us know by clicking on the comment button below!