Foot rests for flying?

I have used an inflatable footrest but had problems keeping it inflated. Now I use a small collapsible plastic footrest from Travelsmith. It is a wonderful solution and really helps to elevate my feet enough to keep from constricting the circulation in the back of my knees. I am 5'2" tall and have short legs. Also, be sure to wear compression sleeves or socks. I prefer the sleeves as the socks seem to compress my feet more than is comfortable.

I've used an inflatable beach ball from the dollar store on my last few trans-Atlantic flights, but there's the problem of the ball (being round!) tending to roll away under one's feet. It helps if you can inflate it just enough to wedge it under the seat in front of you. Just be careful not to inflate it fully until you reach cruising altitude because with increasing altitude the ball will continue to expand on its own. I found that I can use a ball 2 or 3 times before it develops a slow leak.

My wife uses an inflatable foot rest and won't fly internationally without it. It folds into a very small size and weighs hardly anything. For her it's been fantastic.

Pete--can you post the model your wife uses? When my last beach ball goes flat I might splurge for an actual footrest.

My mother in law is really short. She always keep a plastic grocery bag in her purse. Whenever she goes to restaurants she wraps the bag around her purse and uses the purse as a foot stool.

These are all good ideas! I'm also short, and it would be wonderful not to have to dangle my feet for the entire time!

Has anyone ever tried using a yoga ball for this? They're like a beach ball, but made of a softer, rubbery material and are a little more durable. They come in different sizes. They also come with a pump--you could easily position it in the space and then fill to suit.

Thanks for all the helpful replies!! I miss the little bars you could pull down for your feet!!

I hate even more using my city bag as a foot rest

I always do that with my backpack which is used to rough handling and outdoor use, and the other passengers sure are happy about a bit more space in the overhead compartments. But I see what you mean when you have a nice city bag. In that case, can't you just protect it with a plastic bag like that mother-in-law someone mentioned above? No extra weight, no extra costs...