More legroom, less body aches: How to fly long-haul comfortably without breaking the bank

The allure of exploring iconic destinations – whether it’s New York’s concrete jungle, Rome’s historic ruins or Dubai’s futuristic landscape – has us dreaming of our next adventure. Yet, the thought of flying all the way may sometimes dampen that excitement, with cramped seats and long hours overshadowing the thrill of adventure.

The good news is, enjoying a more comfortable flight experience doesn’t mean you have to splurge on Business Class. With Emirates Premium Economy, comfort and convenience are within reach, giving you more peace of mind for your holiday.

Here is what you can look forward to for your next vacation.

Start your holiday before boarding the plane

Kick off your journey with a seamless check-in experience. With the Emirates app, you can check in online, get your boarding pass and browse menus and entertainment options all before your flight.

Should your journey with Emirates include a stopover in Dubai International Airport, Premium Economy passengers can make use of a dedicated check-in desk and a world-class ‘touchless travel experience,’ complete with self-service check-in kiosks and biometric-enabled smart gates.

If you’re planning to make Dubai a part of your travel plans, you can even take advantage of the multiple remote check-in options in the city and choose one that best suits your schedule. This includes City Check-in and Travel Store in the Dubai International Financial Centre, Emirates City Check-in Ajman, Emirates Cruise Check In and Dubz Home Check-In.

For even more perks, sign up for Skywards, Emirates’ frequent flyer programme. Silver, Gold or Platinum Skywards members can enjoy complimentary access to the Emirates Lounges worldwide (or you can enjoy their hospitality for a fee).

Emirates’ renowned service extends to its lounges, where you can savour hot meals in a tranquil setting, immerse yourself in a book and enjoy a diverse range of beverages. When it’s time to fly, priority boarding allows you to bypass the queues and settle into your seat early, ensuring you’re relaxed and ready before takeoff.

Sink into plush leather seats

Being crammed into a narrow seat on long-haul flights can lead to stiff muscles that might dampen your holiday mood.

With Emirates Premium Economy seats, you can relax on the journey and enjoy benefits similar to being in Business Class, but without the price tag.

Cream-coloured, 19.5-inch wide leather seats with polished wood cocktail tables, a six-way adjustable headrest, and calf and leg rests allow you to personalise your comfort. Stretch out your legs, recline and enjoy a movie as you head to your next destination.

The seats come with dual USB ports, a remote jack unit, as well as Bluetooth connectivity for your personal headsets, making it easy to stay connected as you enjoy the extensive in-flight entertainment.

As you catch up on the latest movies, envelop yourself in their soft, sustainable blankets that are made from recycled plastic bottles, complemented by generously-sized pillows exclusive to Premium Economy.

For those on long-haul flights, you will receive a complimentary amenity kit – comprising a bookmark, socks, eyeshades, toothbrush and toothpaste – to help you stay comfortable on your journey, and freshen up before landing.

The same courtesy extends to younger passengers as well. If you’re flying with children, the airline provides child-sized headphones, as well as toys and handy baby packs for infants. Older kids can enjoy a keepsake bag filled with entertaining activities like colouring pencils and games.

Indulge in culinary creations

Upon boarding, Premium Economy passengers are treated to a drink in fine glassware and a refreshing hot towel.

When it’s meal time, enjoy Emirates’ culinary offerings inspired by regional cuisines. Expect multi-course meals, with elevated Western, Asian and Middle Eastern options.

For example, for a flight from Singapore to Dubai*, you can look forward to whetting your appetite with a watermelon salad before savouring hearty mains like braised beef cheeks or pan-fried vegetable gyoza. End the meal on a sweet note with raspberry bavarois.

Pair that with a selection of wines, beers, spirits, juices and soft drinks, followed by tea or coffee – a perfect way to recharge before reaching your destination.

What’s more, the meal experience itself will be more premium, served with linen napkins, Royal Doulton China and stainless steel cutlery.

Liquors and chocolates are also offered at the end of the meal but should you be hungry again, there are always hot and cold snacks available at any time during longer routes.

Find out more about Emirates Premium Economy and get ready to book your next holiday.

*The menu available on flights may vary depending on routes and aircraft configuration.