8 Must-Haves for Surviving Economy Class Flights
1) Your Own Blanket
Blankets supplied by airlines are often very thin, scratchy and germ-infested. For long-haul flights in economy class (especially red-eye ones!), it is worth investing in a breathable blanket that will keep you cozy and comfortable. Made from lush French Microfiber, The Cabeau Fold N’ Go Blanket is ultra-soft and keeps you warm in the chilliest environments. Measuring 60″ by 36″, your toes won’t be left out in the cold. When packed away in its compact case, this blanket can be used as a plush pillow, seat cushion or lumbar support. We can’t travel without this best-selling blanket!
2) A Pair of Compression Socks
Sitting for long periods of time in a cramped seat can increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis. This is sometimes called the ‘economy-class syndrome.’ Wearing compression socks is the simplest and most inexpensive way to prevent your blood from stagnating. Cabeau’s Anti-Microbial Bamboo Compression Socks gently squeeze your feet, ankles and legs to help blood flow back towards the heart. This reduces swelling, varicose veins and blood clots. You’ll not have to worry about your feet swelling like balloons after long flights.
If you can, get up and walk around every hour to keep your muscles active. While you’re standing, bend forward and backwards. Raise your arms above your head to stretch out your shoulder muscles and upper back.
3) A Lightweight Eyemask
Light—from outside your plane window or from a harsh overhead reading light—suppresses the release of the sleep hormone melatonin. This makes it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. Eagle Creek’s Easy Blink Eye Shade is lightweight, comfortable and washable. Plus, it’s ‘blink-able’ because no one likes to feel their eyelashes scraping against the eyemask. Made from luxurious micro-fleece, this eyemask blocks out light and gives your eyes complete rest.
Other options: Eagle Creek Sandman Eyeshade, Cabeau Sleep Mask, Go Travel Eye Mask, Go Travel The Nightshade.
4) A Comfortable Neck Pillow
Not all neck pillows are made alike. Having a quality pillow makes a world of difference when you’re trying to get some sleep in a claustrophobic space. Cabeau’s Evo Microbead Travel Pillow shape-shifts easily to conform to your posture. The breathable fabric will keep you cool and comfortable all night long. Who knew microbeads could feel this good? You’ll arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready to go.
Other options: Cabeau Evolution Cool Travel Pillow, Cabeau Evolution S3 Pillow, Cabeau Air Evolution.
5) Toiletries to Pamper Yourself
Bring your lotions and potions with you onboard! With your facial wipes, toner, moisturizer, eye cream, body lotion, lip balm and much more in your carry-on, you’ll be perfectly moisturized and comfortable during your long flight. These travel-sized silicone bottles from GoToob are perfect for storing all your essentials. The large opening makes it easy to fill and clean, and an ID-window on the collar helps you remember what’s inside. All sizes are TSA carry-on approved.
General rules about bringing liquids onboard:
- Liquids, aerosols and gels will only be allowed in cabin baggage if they’re kept in containers of not more than 100ml each, even if the containers are only partially filled.
- Containers must be carried in a clear, re-sealable plastic bag. The total volume of the bag must not exceed 1 litre.
- Each passenger is only allowed one such plastic bag.
- The bag must be removed from cabin baggage and presented to security personnel for visual and/or X-ray screening.
6) Sturdy Lumbar Support
For people with lower back pain, having customized support behind your back is a good way to prevent slouching and further back problems. Go Travel’s Memory Foam Lumbar Support is a game-changer. It conforms to the lumbar region of your spine and ensures proper spinal positioning. This decreases muscle stiffness and increases blood circulation. Made from high-density memory foam, the outer jacket can be removed and machine-washed. This plushy reinforcement will help make your long-haul flight that much more bearable.
7) An Inflatable Foot Rest
8) High-quality Ear Plugs
For those determined to ‘keep the noise down’, the top-performing Go Travel Z Zone Ear Plugs offer significant noise reduction for high quality sleep. With four different size adjusters for a precise fit, these ear plugs mould to your ear cavity perfectly. Another great option is the Lewis N Clark Pressure- Reducing Ear Plugs. They help ease the pressure you experience with altitude changes. They also relieve headaches, vertigo, nausea and stuffiness. Look forward to maximum comfort and minimal noise on your next flight.