1. Bag a lounge pass – for less

Limitless snacks, an open bar, fast Wi-Fi, super-comfy sofas…airport lounges will give you that ‘first class feeling’ – and they’re not as expensive as you might think. If you’re not a business or first class passenger, you can still buy an airport lounge pass for as little as £15 a pop, giving you all the perks of a pricey ticket. Try Priority Pass, Lounge Pass or DragonPass.

British Airways Silver and Gold Executive Club membership will get you free lounge access – even if you’re flying economy. Some banks also offer cut-price or complimentary lounge passes with particular credit cards or premium accounts. Look out for Barclays’ Travel Plus Pack (six passes per year, plus travel insurance and anti-fraud perks), and American Express’s Premium Rewards cards (offering access to over 600 international airport lounges).

2. Indirect flights aren’t all bad

If your flight stops for a while to reload or refuel, take the opportunity to chat to the flight crew while you wait on board. If the onward leg of the journey isn’t too busy (a connecting flight within the Caribbean, for example), they might bump you up to business or first class for a brief taste of the good life. Airline staff are usually outgoing and friendly, and most will try their best to make your journey as comfortable and happy as possible – especially if you make the effort to be friendly.

3. Avoid the ‘best’ seats

The exit row isn’t quite as heavenly as you might imagine. Sure, there’s plenty of legroom and you’ll be the first out of the door should anything go awry, but there are a few downsides too. You’ll have to store your hand luggage out of reach (to keep the exit route clear), and your entertainment system will either be smaller than usual (tucked away in the arm rest of your seat) or further away (that’s the price for extra legroom). The same goes for seats at the front of the cabin.

Also, steer clear of the seats in front of the exit row – they often don’t recline.

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