While many of us don’t get to experience flying first or business class, we can dare to dream. Cushy, reclining seats, slippers, entertainment, tasty meals, personal space, and champagne. Oh, the perks of an upgrade!

Instead, we shuffle to cattle class with a sense of complacency, knowing that getting from point A to point B is what matters. Economy’s biggest perk? Choosing our seats. Stay away from the bathroom! The middle seats are safest! Window seats are best!

Who would want to ride in the back row near the restroom when they have the bucks to ride in first class? Apparently, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle did so on New Year’s Eve. Sure, it’s possible they could’ve booked first class seats on another plane, or even taken a private jet with posh seating that’s not situated near the loo, but why not roll thriftily like most of us?

The popular couple jetted off to Nice, France to ring in 2018 on the French Riviera. The short trip from London to Nice is only about two hours, and they planned on meeting up with friends.

They caught an early morning British Airways flight and were seated in economy class with the regular folk. The only thing that was a bit telling was that they took up three rows of seats in the back of the plane, and were accompanied by a security detail. The duo also boarded the plane first.

According to Daily Mail, Prince Harry tried to be incognito by dressing in jeans and a lowered baseball cap. Meghan, on the other hand, sported a beanie to stay low-key. Surprisingly, they managed to avoid curious or excited passengers trying to take their photos. But perhaps the sight of bodyguards helped to deter that.

Once the couple touched down in France, they were greeted by French police and escorted to a helicopter which carted them off to their destination. Although that part of their travel plan wasn’t so common, the royals are no strangers to flying coach, especially when taking private trips like this one.

It was noted that during a 2014 trek to the US for a friend’s wedding, Prince William footed the bill for an economy-class ride from Memphis to Dallas. From Dallas he flew home to the U.K.

When carrying out their official duties, trips by the royal family are accounted for through a strict budget, with security making up a huge part of the costs. That’s when you may notice Prince Harry or Prince William heading to first class.

Still, fellow passengers are always shocked to see such a sight on their flights. Seriously – dukes, duchesses, and princesses sitting in coach? That’s not something you see every day! Check out this clip from Wochit to hear more about this royal New Year’s excursion.

Were you surprised to hear about Prince Harry and his fiancée riding in coach? Did you know the royal family flies in economy class on occasion? How would you react to seeing a royal on your flight?