5 ODD THINGS TO TAKE ON A PLANE

... for that first-class feeling when you’re in economy

1. A TENNIS BALL

Joint and muscle pain are guaranteed when you’re spending hours switching between three squishy positions. But pressing a tennis ball into any tense areas is a great way to provide some relief. You can even roll the ball underfoot for a massage — and the circulation boost will help prevent swelling.

2. A FACE MASK

We all know cabin air is horribly dehydrating for your skin, and beauty experts recommend intense moisturisers to combat that. With so much time on your hands, though, we say go full in-flight celeb with a proper face mask. Just pack it on in the bathroom after dinner then settle in for a movie. You’ll look great when you arrive. As for your fellow passengers … no one cares.

3. A FOOT HAMMOCK

Sure, the champagne, newspapers and actually edible food are dandy, but the real joy of business class is being able to stretch your legs. In economy, you’ll never be able to bzzzz your seat back into a fully reclined position, but you can stretch out your legs with a handy foot hammock. Yes, it really is a thing (see Amazon). You wrap it around your tray table, and then rest your feet on the dangling footrest for better circulation. Be aware though that it probably only works for kids and short-legged adults.

4. A BUFF

Wear it as a scarf when they turn the aircon to freezing, and when you’re ready to attempt some shut-eye, pull it up over your face so no one can see you drool. Instant privacy for a third of the price.

5. ONE-CUP FILTER-COFFEE MAKER

Plane coffee is in a class of its own — extra rubbish. And if you just can’t start the day until you’ve had a proper cup of joe, hunt down a single-cup coffee brewer (Amazon again), a nifty little gadget that fits over the cup and has a mesh centre for steeping. Bring your granules and let the cabin crew pour in the hot water. And voilà, a decent cup of coffee to brighten your day.