12 Travel Essentials to Make Economy Feel First Class

I’ll be the first to admit that I’m a budget flier. I constantly have flight alerts up so that I’m notified the moment a flight goes on sale, and I would rather book an inexpensive seat and spend my money on an extra day at my destination. To elevate my economy seat, I pack a few essentials to make me feel more comfortable.

Flying in a middle seat in a cramped section of the airplane really doesn’t have to be a miserable experience. With essential items like noise-canceling headphones and a luxurious travel pillow, you can elevate your budget seat and save some money so you have more to spend at your final destination. I always make sure to pack my own snacks and wear comfortable clothing so I can turn my flight into a first class experience wherever I’m seated.

Kizik Irvine Canvas Slip-on Sneakers

A good pair of walking shoes are absolutely essential when you’re traveling. This simple yet stylish pair from Kizik easily slips on and off without having to retie, allowing you to expedite your security process as well as popping them on and off while seated in a cramped row to help you get more comfortable. 

Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 Carry-on

I don’t always fly with a carry-on bag since, flying economy, I often board when most of the overhead bin space is already occupied. But when I do carry on a bag for shorter trips, I absolutely love the Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 Carry-on. This is one of the most sleek and stylish bags I’ve ever seen and it just makes me feel elegant while traveling. It also glides like a dream and features top and side handles, so I can easily lift it into luggage bins without becoming flustered.

Lillusory Women’s Oversized Sweater

Comfort is key to elevating your flight, and staying warm is essential. This ultrasoft pullover provides the perfect plush layer, whether you’re flying in the summer or winter months. I love the classic colorways like white, apricot, and black, but for more of a statement look, consider hot pink, purple, or even the striped styles.

Marlow Travel Bundle by Brooklinen

Whether I’m on a long-haul flight or a short trip, I will be boarding with a travel blanket. I hate being cold and airplane air conditioners always seem to be cranked to the coldest setting. This Marlow Travel Bundle includes both a soft blanket and perfectly sized travel pillow, so I can cozy up in any seat.

Leatherology Cognac Deluxe Passport Cover

Protecting your passport is one of the most important things you can do while traveling. This leather cover comes in nine classic colorways so you can keep organized and stylish. Plus, the cognac shade perfectly matches the leather accents of the Delsey Paris carry-on so you can stylishly coordinate for a first-class look.

Tumi Voyageur Dasha Leather Backpack

I’m a taller traveler and economy plane seats aren’t exactly known for being spacious, so I always try to keep my underseat area clear so I can stretch out — especially on long flights. This small and elegant Tumi backpack is a bit of an investment, but the hearty leather is so durable it will last for years to come and takes up very little of your precious legroom.

Comrad Knee-high Compression Socks

Compression socks are a travel must, whether your flight is just one hour or seven hours. Not only will they keep you comfortable and warm, but they promote healthy circulation and help keep your legs happy even when in tight economy seats.

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones

What’s the best way to forget about all of the other passengers surrounding you? Put on some noise-canceling headphones. These comfortable, over-the-ear headphones from Sony actually eliminate all background noise, even when you don’t have any music playing, so you can close your eyes and think of your happy place. I especially love that the Sony app comes with a playlist of nature sounds and classical music so you can really relax and unwind throughout your flight.

Papier Daily Wellness Journal

A wellness journal may not be at the top of your packing list, but it can really be an essential item to help elevate your travel experience. Sometimes, writing down your feelings of frustration when on a difficult flight can both relieve your anxiety and help you see the comedy in your tough situation. Plus, it helps to remember all the things you have to look forward to once you land.

Snackle Box Charcuterie Container

I think we’ve all experienced the FOMO of snacking on a small bag of pretzels while passengers in first and business class are served meals or larger snacks. Packing my own elevated charcuterie board is the easiest way to make my flight feel like a luxury experience.This snackle box is one of the cutest and simple ways to keep all of my snack items organized and ready for a long journey. 

Grown Alchemist Hydra-repair Treatment Day Cream & Anti-aging Facial Moisturizer

No matter where you’re sitting on a plane, it’s easy to become dehydrated. This hydra-repair day cream by Grown Alchemist is a perfect choice to prevent dry skin during a long day of travels. The plant-based formula is so nourishing, easy to apply as needed right in your seat, and comes in a compact pot that stores in your carry-on or toiletry bag for easy access. And don’t forget to pack a water bottle as well to guarantee plenty of access to cold water.

Maui Jim Men’s and Women’s Cruzem Polarized Sunglasses

While I certainly don’t wear sunglasses while on a plane, these Maui Jim frames elevate any look while you head to and from the airport. They pair perfectly with nicer outfits when you’re traveling around a new destination, but also elevate your cozy travel clothes for a high-end feel.

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