The cost of a first-class airline ticket can be up to eight times that of a ticket in coach. So even if you're operating on an expense account, budgetary concerns usually land you in coach. The seat width has increased from 17 inches to just 17.2 in the past ten years. Whether it's a short hop or long haul, you can be comfortable in coach.
Request a seat in the bulkhead or in an exit row where there is extra legroom. Take a middle seat in an exit row before accepting an aisle seat elsewhere. Ask whether the seat backs recline in the exit row and made a decision accordingly.
Accept a seat in row with open seats at the rear of the plane. This allows you to board right after the first class passengers and gain first access to overhead bins. Take a window seat if possible to avoid getting up and down to let others out of the row. Ask for a pillow and blanket immediately upon boarding.
Take along appealing food. Stop on the way to the airport and order carryout safely packaged to take on the plane. Be aware of the airport security rules regarding liquids, like drinks and soups.
Pack an inflatable neck pillow to make sleeping and reading more comfortable. Bring a shawl or pashima to ward off chills. Remove shoes. Lift the arm rest next to an empty adjoining seat.
Drink plenty of water during the flight. Stow luggage in the overhead bin to keep the space under the forward seat free for legroom.
Sleep with cotton in the ears instead of earplugs to block noise so that ears can adjust to changes in cabin pressure. Use a CD player with noise-cancelling headphones.
Lower the window shade and use an eye mask or article of clothing to block out as much light as possible. Keep the seatbelt fastened and visible. Use deep breathing techniques to relax.
Stretch in the seat to enhance circulation. Lift arms overhead, tilt head from side to side, pull knees up to the chest and stretch legs when possible without disturbing fellow passengers. Move about the cabin when the seatbelt light is turned off.
