How to Fly Coach in Comfort

Try to get some sleep

Physical comfort will improve your odds of nodding off, and you can’t count on the plane having enough pillows and blankets to go around. Book a window seat (where there’s more room for your head), and pack the following in your carry-on:

• Pashmina shawl: “They take up much less room than a blanket and pack easily,” says Valerie Ricci. “Rolling up a pillow or blanket and putting it behind your back can really help, especially in coach where there might not be as much padding.”
• Horseshoe-shaped pillow: It keeps your head from falling forward, and Arthur Frommer swears it enables him to sleep on overnight flights.
• Eye mask: Johnny Jet says it’s a key to a good night’s sleep. “The good ones—big and fluffy—cost only about $10. I might look like a freak on the plane, but I’m comfortable.”