It’s 2015 and the world is shrinking. Australians are flying, for both business and pleasure, much more frequently than they were even five years ago. As a result, we’re looking to avoid breaking the bank on one flight, because we may have to fly several times this year. But flying economy doesn’t have to mean a sweaty, squished, peanuts-in-a-packet experience.
Clean Hands, Clean Mind
This is the generation of do-it-yourself. Our number one tip for a luxurious flying experience is remarkably simple: bring hand wipes. You’ll only need a few, travel-size will do, but having a clean face and hands will make everything feel fresher. Inflatable travel pillows and footrests are going to be much easier to carry than the bulky plush pillows that you’ll be tempted to purchase in the airport.
Feet First
Airport security isn’t as militant in its quest to have us all running about the airport barefoot as it once was. However, wear socks. Wear socks for the flight itself, because keeping toes scrunched in business shoes or heels for five hours (or twenty-five hours) is the worst. Wear socks through the security gate, because while we salute the janitorial staff everywhere, no one can keep a travel hub’s floor that clean.
Taste of a Generation
Bring your own food. You’ve probably heard this from your mother somewhere down the line and, as always, she was right. There’s no need to go insane baking quinoa and pumpkin seed granola bars 24 hours before take off (though kudos to you if that’s your game), but bring something that hasn’t spent too much time in plastic. Try fruit, vegetables, or even leftovers from the night before that don’t need to be reheated.
Are You Not Entertained?
Finally, bring something to do with your hands. Most flights are equipped with movie and music options, but they’re not guaranteed to be functional. In travel and in life, never depend on anyone but yourself for entertainment. And luxurious travelers deserve to be entertained.