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Japan holds a special place in my heart, as it's where most of my family resides (and where I grew up), so I'm always counting down the days until my next adventure there. When it comes to picking my flight, I'm not really a brand loyalist. My travel philosophy is pretty simple: show me the best price and give me enough legroom to stretch out – because nobody likes a cramped journey, right?

I had a fantastic experience in Singapore’s Premium Economy cabin in the past, but lately, those prices have soared. As much as I loved the extra comfort, I'd rather save my money for more fun adventures once I land. In recent years, I've tried a couple different airlines for my Japan runs, JAL’s Economy and United Premium Plus. But for my latest trip from May 5th to 16th, Singapore Airlines Economy swooped in with the winning price tag.

Auto Check-in

A few days before my flights, I got a little email nudge asking if I wanted to opt into their automatic check-in 48 hours before departure. Being the optimistic traveler, I thought, "This must mean an earlier boarding group!" But I was sorely mistaken. More on that later.

Singapore Economy Class Check-in Line — Economy Class Check-in Line

Singapore Airlines Luggage Checkin — Checking in my luggage

When it comes to checking in my bags at the airport, I’m the type that likes to arrive early, so I got to both Los Angeles Airport and Narita Airport three hours before my flight’s departure. The process was smooth at both terminals. At LAX (Los Angeles), the attendant was super friendly and efficient, and NRT (Narita) was just as swift and courteous. Both staff members made sure to remind me about my exit row seat and all the important duties that come with it.

Boarding

Here's where my "48 hour early check-in = early boarding" theory went out the window. At both LAX and Narita, I was in the very last boarding group (😭). It was a bit disappointing, especially since it meant my carry-on didn't have a direct overhead bin spot.

I'm one of those people who likes my belongings within arm's reach – call me a control freak, but it's just more convenient. However, hats off to the incredible flight attendants. They were super helpful and found a space for me that wasn't too far from my seat.

Economy Cabin

LAX to Narita: Legroom for Days

For my journey from Los Angeles to Narita, I splurged a tiny bit extra (US $110) for an exit row seat and it was 100% worth it. Singapore Airlines' website is a dream when it comes to seat selection – they have this fantastic 3D image feature that lets you virtually "see" your seat. So, I confidently picked my spot, knowing I'd have tons of legroom.

Singapore Airlines 3D Seat Map — 3D view of my selected Seat

Singapore Airlines Economy Middle Seat — Economy Exit Seat

My seat was exactly as pictured online, with so much space in front of me I could practically do a little dance. It was a windowless exit row seat, which didn't bother me in the slightest, especially since the seat itself was comfy. It was your standard economy size, but the cushions felt plush and supportive, a step up from some other airlines I've flown. Plus, a standard pillow and blanket were waiting for me. I barely even needed the blanket, though, as the cabin temperature was perfectly cozy – thankfully no arctic blasts of AC here.

Singapore Airlines Pillow and Blanket — Pillow and Blanket

Singapore Airlines Economy Exit Side Pocket — Side pocket where I stashed my water bottle

Now, for a couple of tiny quirks: my tray table was a bit warped, so I had to give it a helping hand to keep my drinks and food from sliding around. And out of the two USB ports under my seat, only one was working. Luckily, the passenger next to me wasn't using hers, so I used that one.

Singapore Airlines Warped Tray Table — My Warped Tray Table

Entertainment

There was a decent spread of movies and TV shows, with a mix of both American and Asian cinema. The complimentary airline headphones definitely lacked noise cancellation, which can be a bit of a bummer if you're trying to get lost in a movie.

Singapore Airlines Economy Complimentary Headphones.jpg — Complimentary Headphones

My pro tip? Always bring your own. And if you're using wireless headphones, an adapter is your best friend. The Airfly adapter is my favorite – it's super easy to pair your wireless headphones with the in-flight entertainment system, making for a truly immersive viewing experience.

Snacks & Soothing Towels

The snacks on board were simple yet satisfying. The detail that I really appreciated was the warm, hot towels (called oshibori in Japanese) they provided before our meal. It’s such a sweet, simple gesture that instantly transports me to Japan, where this custom is so common. It’s those little touches that truly elevate the experience.

Singapore Airlines Economy Warm Towel — Warm Towel Before our Meal

Singapore Airlines Peas and Crackers — My Kind of Snack choice

Bathroom

The bathrooms were pretty standard for an aircraft – compact, but functional. And I appreciated how well-maintained they stayed throughout the flight. A little drawer filled with disposable toothbrush kits was another thoughtful touch that I absolutely appreciated – nothing beats freshening up right before landing.

Singapore Airlines Economy Dental Kit — Dental Kit

Singapore Airlines Bathroom Sink — Bathroom Sink Area

In-Flight Meals

I actually quite enjoy Singapore Airlines' in-flight meals. They are definitely better than other economy meals I've had in recent years. Sometimes it can be a bit tricky to choose your meal without a visual menu, but the flight attendants on both flights were absolute gems. They patiently and clearly explained all the options, even repeating them when needed. Five stars for their patience and helpfulness.

Singapore Airlines Economy Cabin Dinner — Dinner from NRT to LAX

Singapore Airlines Lunch LAX to NRT — LUNCH From LAX to NRT

Singapore Airlines Dinner LAX to NRT — Dinner From LAX to NRT

Narita to LAX: Déjà Vu (in a Good Way)

My return flight experience was pretty much a carbon copy, which is a good thing. This time, my tray table was in perfect working order. However, the USB port mystery continued – again, only one was functional. A bit odd that both flights had the same little hiccup.

Singapore Airlines Economy Class Group 5 — Economy Class Group 5

Singapore Airlines Exit Seat 49 — Exit Row Seat from NRT to LAX

Final Thoughts

Would I book an economy seat with Singapore Airlines again? Absolutely. The exit row seat provided plenty of leg-room, the food was surprisingly good, and the overall experience was made even better by the fantastic airline crew. Their constant smiles, calm demeanor, and professional yet friendly attitude really put you at ease and truly make the flying experience so much more enjoyable. Until next time, Japan!