I've flown in long-haul economy on a dozen airlines. These are 3 I'd recommend to anyone, and one I wouldn't book again.

I’ve flown on a dozen major airlines in my trial-and-error quest to find the least painful options for my frequent transoceanic trips abroad.

After four years of exclusively flying economy class and comparing seats, service, entertainment, food, and prices, I’ve found Etihad Airways, Air France, and American Airlines offer the best value on long-haul treks — while China Eastern Airlines wasn’t for me.

When choosing flights, I primarily look for the cheapest seats with the best connections and travel times.

I also consider factors like how easily I can preorder a vegetarian meal or how much legroom I’ll have at 5-foot-10, especially on red-eyes when I want to sleep.

I don’t expect premium-cabin perks in economy, particularly as airlines increasingly move away from coach to invest in the front of the plane.

But my top three long-haul airlines offer reasonable fares and are noticeably more comfortable than others in my experience.