Flying economy is usually not the best experience — especially if you’r on a cross-country or international flight. Unfortunately, though, economy is often the only affordable option as business class and first-class tickets can easily cost more than a thousand dollars.
Try out some of these tips to make the most of your next economy class flight.
Bring Noise-Canceling Headphones
Headphones, particularly noise-canceling headphones, are a fantastic invention. While airlines often offer complimentary earbuds, they surely won’t be noise cancelling and are sure to leave your ears aching.
Noise cancelling headphones can be purchased for <$100 and will block out the noise made by loud children and inconsiderate passengers. Plus, without headphones, you won’t be able to take advantage of the free in-flight entertainment that many airlines offer.
Bring Your Own Amenities
If you’re flying economy, airlines aren’t likely to offer you the best amenities. Whether it be food, blankets, pillows, medicine, or whatever else you might need, your airline likely won’t be able to provide it.
Be sure to prepare for your flight by picking anything you need to be comfortable on your flight. Most, if not all, airlines allow passengers to bring a personal item for free. Make sure to pack yours full of useful amenities.
Pick Your Own Seat
Airlines will typically allow you to pick your own seat. Depending on which seat you choose, you’ll usually be required to pay anywhere from $10 to $20; however, this small fee is often well worth it.
Aside from being able to pick between window and aisle seats, many airlines offer economy seat with improved legroom. Usually called Premium Economy, Preferred Seating, or something similar, these seats can turn your flight into a much more comfortable experience.
Purchase Wi-Fi
There’s no need to spend several hours staring at the back of the seat in front of you or watching whatever movies your airline happens to have on-demand.
Most carriers now offer in-flight wi-fi for a small additional fee. Fees vary by airline; however, you can probably expect to spend $5 to $15 for domestic flights and $15 to $20+ for international flights. Companies like Gogo Inflight Internet even offer monthly and annual subscriptions for frequent flyers.
Pack a Small Carry-on
Budget airlines like Spirit may offer cheaper tickets, but they make up for it by charging passengers for any and every little thing. Passengers often try to stuff as much as they can into their carry-on in order to save money on checked bags.
However, airlines are starting to crack down on individuals who overstuff their carry-ons. If airport employees notice that your carry-on is larger than it should be, they will likely charge you an additional fee to check your bag at the gate.
Not only will you have to pay extra, but you won’t have access to any personal items that you might need during your flight.
There’s pretty much no way around it — flying economy just isn’t typically a comfortable experience. Be that as it may, there are several ways you can improve your in-flight experience. Try out some of the tips listed above on your next domestic or international economy flight.
