How to Make Economy Feel Like First Class

Strategically stocking your carry-on bag with super-soft luxuries makes all the difference. There's arguably nothing more decadent when you're up in the air than a cashmere eye mask. Compact baby alpaca throws fit discreetly into a tote and will make long trips feel super cosy. A favourite trick of ours involves one of the best feelings in the world: new socks. Toss a pair in your bag. It's only courteous to your fellow passengers to sport a crisp pair when removing shoes before your flight.

Airlines often have an enviable collection of newly released film and television options. But instead of splurging the extra dollars, load up your iPad with your favourite podcasts, shows, and games. Feel like bouncing between novels? Fill your tablet's library with all of the reading material you've been dying to catch up on. Throw in a pair of noise-canceling headphones, and you'll be ensconced in your own little heaven, no matter your aisle number.

One of the biggest discrepancies between economy and first class is the food selection. Bring your own treats and you won't miss a beat. Be sure to select dry goods that will make it past security. We prefer to hit up our favorite health-food store well in advance to detract from last-minute stress. Start a bulk travel stash in your pantry. Healthy, delicious snacks will keep your mind, body, and immune system in top form.

A cocktail of high altitudes and stress can leave skin dry and malnourished. Investing in travel-sized varieties of your personal skin regimen makes for a super-luxurious mid-flight break. You'll land feeling glamorous and fresh-faced. Since overpowering perfumes may disturb other passengers, we recommend switching to a subtle, organic fragrance oil. Low on ounces, it's the perfect carry-on for a fragrant and discreet touch-up.

Arriving early to score an exit row seat, or spending a few extra bucks to boost your legroom situation to a more premium seat, is one luxury that still comes in at a fraction of the full upgrade cost. Check your bags or combine your carry-on and personal items into a single streamlined piece of luggage. Everything in the overhead compartment means more room to stretch out. Chic travel accessories are enough to make any journey feel like the high life.