We’ve been traveling a lot for work and pleasure lately, and it’s only about to pick up! We’re always SO excited about our destinations, but we have to get there first, and flying in coach can be such a drag. Am I right?

Here’s the good news, travelers! We have four travel hacks to make flying in coach as comfortable as possible. With Salem Kitty’s help, Stephanie just filled her new Delsey Tote with all the goodies she needs to relax in coach on her flight to Reykjavik.

4 Ways to Feel Like First Class in Coach

REDUCE NOISE
Airplane noise, crying babies, grouchy and chatty passengers – how are you supposed to actually relax? For a peaceful flight, pack both earplugs and noise-reducing headphones. You’ll want the noise-reducing headphones while you listen to music and podcasts or watch movies. Grab a great quality pair like these from Bose. A lot of our friends prefer the large, over ear pairs, but take into consideration how much room those will take up in your bag. We like some that are more compact. We have other necessary luxuries to pack, after all. The ear plugs, of course, are necessary for any attempt at a good nap.

GET COMFY
Sleep is everything on a long-haul flight, and you’re going to need a little more than just those earplugs to get you through. First, you’re going to need a good travel pillow. This is especially essential for a long-haul flight. We recommend a firm pillow that will give your head the support you need.

You’re also going to want a blanket, both to keep warm on a chilly flight and to just get cozy. Those airplane blankets aren’t clean, so bring a lightweight one in your carry-on. First-class snoozing, here we come!

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. You’ll always find us in compression socks on a long-haul flight as well. Just put your shoes back on before heading to the bathroom. And finally, you did pack your eye mask, right? A comfy eye mask is key to blocking out all that light around you. We recommend one that doesn’t press too hard on your eyes and blocks out as much light as possible, like this pair from Flight 001or these from Perpetual Shade.

EAT WELL (TRAVEL OFTEN)
I think half the time I’m snacking on a plane it’s entirely out of boredom. Airplane food is never ideal, but it’s also typically pretty heavy and filling. Pack some granola bars and other healthy snacks  to fill you up without making you feel bloated. I always pack some Probar Meal Bars full of berries and nuts.

You’ve probably read a lot of tips about not drinking alcohol on a plane if you want to sleep well. If you’re on a long-haul flight, treat yourself to a drink, but keep it minimal. A drink can definitely help you unwind, and you can close your eyes and imagine you’re in first-class at the same time. We love the Carry On Cocktail Kit. In fact, these drinks will make first-class passengers a little jealous of your night-cap back in coach. Don’t forget to stay hydrated with water as well! You’ll feel so much more refreshed upon arrival.

PAMPER YOURSELF
Get out your quart-size bag and start filling it up! Go ahead. Treat yo’ self! We recommend taking off your make-up and wearing either a nice sleeping face mask or your favorite night cream for a longer flight. Nothing will refresh you as much as brushing your teeth, and we love the fun flavors of Marvis toothpaste. Yes, they’re a little expensive, but you know you need a little extra luxury back there in coach. A good lip balm and shea butter hand cream will help you out, too – flying dries your skin out so much!

PACK THESE:
Memory Foam Travel Pillow
Cozy Blanket
Cozy Eye Mask
Carry On Cocktail Kit
S’well Water Bottle– Bring an empty bottle through security and politely ask your flight attendant to fill it up for you.
Travel Wallet– Not a standard for pampering, but don’t you hate it when you have customs forms to fill out and you’re digging through your bag for your passport and a pen? Did you even bring a pen? Keep it all in one place.

Do you have any other favorite travel luxuries that get you through a flight? Tell us about them in the comments!