10 Easy Ways to Make Your Economy Flight Feel Like First Class (Video)

Splurging on a first class ticket isn’t the only way to guarantee a pleasant flight. In fact, getting a luxury experience from an economy reservation can easily be done. Though it’s going to take some effort to mimic the premium dream, these life hacks will make all the difference. Before packing those bags, study our tips for making the most out of your budget-friendly moment in the sky.

Food, first

Just because a meal is included with your economy fare, it doesn’t mean you have to settle for mediocre airplane food. Do yourself a favor and purchase your favorite foods prior to boarding. Whether it’s a sweet treat or a yummy cheeseburger, eating something you actually want will instantly put you in a good mood. Don’t believe us? See what Anthony Bourdain had to say about airplane food.

Check-in early

A mobile boarding pass will make you feel more like a VIP than you think. Not only will it get you through security faster and keep you out of long check-in lines, being one of the first to check into a flight increases your chance of ending up with a better seat. If you wait until you arrive at the airport, most of the seats may have been assigned, leaving you with way less options and the chance to be stuck in the dreaded middle seat. 

A better amenities kit

Instead of fretting about not being offered in-flight essentials, why not put together your own? Pamper yourself with a pair of slipper socks, a toothbrush, high-end skincare products, and more in a convenient and sleek pouch. Trust us, these little details go a long way. For a simpler solution, you could opt for the premade Aria travel kit that includes everything you need to relax and unwind on your next flight.

Extra leg room is key

From landing an exit row to stuffing your personal item into an overhead carry-on, it’s important to have as much space as possible. Make sure to keep an eye out for empty rows or window seats and then ask a flight attendant to move once everyone is seated.

Bring your own alcohol 

Free wine and beer on long-haul flights may be nice, but nothing beats your go-to beverage. Though it's technically illegal to drink alcohol brought onboard yourself, there's a loophole: a flight attendant can serve you your alcohol if presented to them at the beginning of the flight. Not all airlines will do this, but if you find yourself on a JetBlue flight, don't hesitate to ask. If you don't want to deal with the hassle, just stop in the airport and get yourself your favorite Starbucks drink or a healthy smoothy to relax. And whatever you do, don't forget to bring a bottle of water. 

It’s all in the loungewear

Even though plenty of first class passengers wear suits and heels, many of them change into more comfortable clothing shortly after boarding. The trick is to look the part before takeoff, but be a travel-pro by packing luxe pajamas or chic athletic wear for a smoother flight.

Soundproof your space

Complimentary economy earbuds are no match for the noise-canceling headphones included in first class. However, even that luxury amenity isn’t comparable to investing in your own high-quality pair. Plus, being able to tune out a crying baby or chatty seatmate is priceless.

Go to a lounge

Regardless of your seat number, you can pay to have access to an airline lounge. Being able to eat, drink, and shower ahead of a flight or during a layover takes things to a new level. Look to apps such as Priority Pass or Lounge Buddy for discounted prices.

Upgrade the entertainment

Having movies or TV shows downloaded from a streaming platform on your tablet or laptop can make time fly. They might even be a step up from the available programming on the plane.

Try to get some sleep

Forget the flimsy blanket and tiny cushion provided. Give yourself more of a chance to fall asleep with a memory foam travel pillow and a soft, lightweight comforter for a true first class experience.

13 Pairs of Jeans Celebrities Wear When They Travel

The good old jeans and T-shirt combo may just be our favorite way to dress while traveling, and it turns out celebrities agree.

Whether they are boarding a plane, discovering a new destination, or just running errands like us normal people, a lot of stars opt for the most comfortable pants option known to man: denim.

Take Jennifer Aniston, for example. We have always admired her relaxed, all-American style which, most of the time, includes a pair of boyfriend jeans. Even supermodels like Gigi Hadid — when not strutting down the runway clad in designer clothes — don denim pants.

Related: These Slip-on Sneakers Are the Most Comfortable Travel Shoes

Let’s face it, another piece of clothing that is so versatile, so functional, and so simple probably doesn't exist. They literally go with anything. Chrissy Teigen often wears them with heels, Kerry Washington with sandals, J.Lo with boots, and Karlie Kloss with sneakers.

And while most A-listers seem to have at least one pair of Levi's in their closets, some of them prefer other brands popular for their quality denim such as Citizens of Humanity, Rag & Bone, and Kate Middleton’s all-time favorite, J Brand.

Now, peruse what some of our favorite celebrities wear on their #denimdays.

How to Cry on an Airplane Without Anyone Noticing

Airplane movies always make me cry. 

It can be a comedy, an action-packed blockbuster, or even a nature documentary — anything with just the slightest hint of pathos will reduce me to a puddle of tears and give the passenger next to me cause for alarm. And I’m not alone.

There is something about an airplane cabin that makes people more prone to emotional displays. It’s a well-regarded phenomenon, although scientists have yet to pinpoint an exact cause (some cite lower oxygen levels or the very psychology of travel).

But after a flight attendant found me welling up during The Big Short and asked if she could get me anything, I vowed to never again be caught in such a compromising situation.

Hulton Archive/Getty Images

So I developed an arsenal of tricks that allow me to discreetly bawl while at cruising altitude. Although some travelers may pack tissues or wear sunglasses onboard to mask tears, it's still fairly obvious to surrounding passengers what’s going on.

This may be acceptable for those who only cry at films that are actually heart-wrenching, but when you weep during children’s movies and comedies, you need techniques that are a bit more covert.

Here’s how to sob on an airplane and arrive at your final destination with dignity still intact.

1. Always pick a window seat

Planning in advance is often the best defense. Passengers who are sitting in the window seat have a built-in cry shield, and only need to worry about blocking leaky eye sockets from one side. Stare directly out the window until the sadness has passed. The aisle seat is the worst spot for criers. Avoid it at all costs.

2. Wear a hoodie

There’s no garment that was built for a public cry quite like an oversized hoodie.

3. Take a bathroom break

If you know you’re going to be blubbering and gasping for air, get a little privacy in the airplane bathroom. The loud woosh of the toilet flush can mask any loud sobs. Reserve this space exclusively for short, cathartic emergency cries, as other passengers will start knocking on the door if you take too long.

4. Pack a mini bottle of Visine

Hudson News sells them, thankfully, and they come in travel-friendly droppers (less than one fluid ounce). 

5. Use a sleep mask

Emotional passengers on long-haul flights can use the provided eye mask as a shield for sobs. Secure the eye mask as tightly as possible to create a dam that will prevent tears from rolling out the bottom.

6. Book a redeye flight 

Those prone to crying on planes should try to book flights when other passengers are likely to be sleeping. It’s much easier to get away with waterworks in the dark. When the cabin lights dim, let the tears fall.

7. Learn to fake a sneeze

If anybody confronts you about your tears, tell them it’s allergies.

8. Pretend you’re sleeping

If the in-flight entertainment starts to get too emotional, pause the film, cross your arms on the tray, lay your head down, and make a few snoring sounds before letting the tears loose. Pro tip: Use your sleeves to dry your eyes before popping back up and resuming the movie.

9. Have reading material

Magazines, newspapers, and books are a requirement in any weepy arsenal. Not only are they a great barrier from which to cry behind, but also the pages can double as tissues in a pinch.

10. Don't underestimate the genre

I once cried while watching Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby. So don't let your guard down just because you're watching a comedy. 

15 Must-Pack Items for a New Year’s Trip

No matter what your New Year's resolutions may be, start 2017 off on the right note by taking an adventure. Close or far, just being away from home can feel like a detox during the holidays.

For the first trip of the calendar year, you are going to want to pack a wardrobe that is as stylish as it is functional. Find a color palette you like and only pack items that match those hues: It will be easy and effortless to mix and match your wardrobe.

Of course, you can’t forget to bring festive attire for an evening of celebration. But even your party outfit can be versatile. For instance, wear the same skirt you wore to a New Year's Eve party the next day at brunch by toning it down with a cozy sweater and casual-cool sneakers. Or dress up your every-day tank top by adding fun, eye-catching earrings and sleek black heels.

Before you head out for your last trip of 2016, check out our full list of must-pack items for your New Year getaway.