How I Bring Business-Class Comfort to Economy

Let’s face it: economy class isn’t exactly the most romantic setting. It’s crowded, the snacks are forgettable, and comfort is more of a suggestion than a guarantee. But there are a few tricks that turn that cramped seat into something surprisingly enjoyable. And no, I’m not talking about hacks with neck pillows or seat upgrades. I mean real, tactile, sensory upgrades—things that make you feel like you’re not just en route, but actually treating yourself along the way.

I travel a lot, but business class isn’t always in the cards. So I’ve learned to bring a little of that energy with me, even if I’m seated near the rear of the plane. 

Pack with Intention

This part starts before I even get to the airport. I’ve got a small zip-up case with a few basics: a stainless steel shaker, a couple of sturdy plastic coupe glasses, and a few mini bottles of mixers. If I’m in the mood to go a little further, I’ll throw in a tiny bitters bottle and a citrus oil spritz.

The best moment is mid-flight, when I mix a drink. You’d be surprised how much it shifts the energy. That tray table just turns into a decent little setup. It’s less about the drink itself and more about switching things up a bit.

Pack Your Own Snacks

Airline snacks don’t offer much beyond convenience. Those small bags of pretzels or cookies aren’t exactly satisfying, so I usually bring my own. Something easy to pack and eat—like toast points, hummus with veggie sticks, or even a small jar of salmon roe if I’m feeling a bit extra.

On one flight, I had cream cheese and roe on toast with a sparkling soda and lime. It was simple, fresh, and a lot more enjoyable than anything off the cart. 

Keep Your Skin Comfortable Mid-Flight

Flights are rough on skin—not to mention your overall mood. So I treat the time like a bit of a reset. Once we’re in the air and the seatbelt sign’s off, I’ll reach for a sheet mask, some under-eye patches, and a hydrating mist. Nothing scented or messy—just things that help me feel a little better.

It’s not about looking good—it’s about feeling like yourself again. I’ve shared under-eye patches with seatmates. It becomes a moment of connection, like we’re all just trying to ride this thing out a little more comfortably.

Plan Your Own Entertainment

I don’t rely on in-flight screens unless it’s a long-haul with solid options. Instead, I prep my own. A couple of comfort movies, a playlist I made the night before, maybe an audiobook I’ve been saving.

Add noise-canceling headphones and a soft wrap I can fold into a pillow, and I’m set. I don’t want the flight to feel like something I have to get through. I want it to feel like a break from the rush, a quiet time I rarely get on the ground.

It makes a difference. Especially when everyone else is fidgeting or trying to adjust those tiny seat-back screens.

What I’ve Learned About Flying in Economy Class

The biggest thing I’ve realized is you don’t have to wait for an upgrade to have a better experience. You just have to decide to make it one.

Economy won’t ever give you much room to stretch—but that doesn’t mean you have to shrink yourself and pretend it’s fine. You can still create moments that feel like yours.

I bring herbal tea bags and ask for hot water instead of whatever’s on the cart. I prep like I’m heading somewhere that matters—because I am. Whether it’s a return trip or a new adventure, the travel part counts too.

Comfort Comes From Small Habits

Just to be clear: this isn’t about pretending you’re in first class. It’s about making the space a little more your own.

There’s something satisfying about turning a rigid environment into something soft, something personal. Even if it’s just a chilled drink, a bite of something you actually enjoy, or a moment with your eyes closed and a sheet mask in place.