As a frequent flyer, you may find that the novelty of traveling has worn out, and you dread the thought of a nine-hour flight in economy class. When you’re crammed in a tiny seat with only the same selection of movies you had last time to pass the time, the idea of upgrading to business class on your next trip may seem like a million-dollar idea. On the other hand, if you only get a vacation every once in a blue moon, why not enjoy every second? 

No matter how often you travel, traveling business class can be an excellent way to elevate your experience aboard an aircraft. While economy seats are the right choice for those whose top concern is affordability, those with a little wiggle room in their budget likely find that business class offers much better value. Thus, it’s no wonder that business-class travel is growing in popularity among travelers seeking comfort and luxury. 

In this article, we’ll share valuable tips for maximizing your business-class flight experience! 

Understanding The Value of Business Class

If you’re unfamiliar with business class, you may wonder if it’s worth it. After all, everyone on the plane arrives at the same destination. While that is true, the experience that each passenger has aboard varies drastically depending on the service they paid for. It’s up to you to decide whether business class is worth the extra cost, but we can help make that choice a little easier by breaking down what it’s like to travel in each class. 

Comparing Travel Classes

Airlines typically offer three classes: economy, business, and first. Most people are familiar with economy class since this is the standard fare and the most popular selection. Here are key differences you may notice if you upgrade from economy to business class:

• Seats: Business class seats offer more personal space, with fewer seats per row and larger chairs. The rows are spaced further apart, giving passengers more legroom. Additionally, these seats tend to have more cushioning, and they may recline further. 

• Services: Business class passengers may receive gourmet meal service on longer flights, complimentary alcoholic beverages, and more attention from the flight attendants. Depending on the airline, passengers may also receive amenity kits, noise-canceling headphones, and bedding to keep them comfortable and relaxed. They may also offer a broader range of in-flight movies and entertainment options, sometimes on better-quality screens. 

• Check-in & Boarding: Passengers flying in business class can check in at priority counters, essentially jumping the line. Moreover, they board before the economy class passengers, allowing more time to settle in. 

• Lounges: Business class passengers often have the option of waiting for boarding in a lounge that offers complimentary refreshments, comfortable seating, WiFi, and entertainment. 

• Cost: Due to the enhanced services, business class tickets are usually more expensive than economy tickets. That doesn’t always mean they are costly, as many savvy travelers find excellent deals on these fares.

While it offers some unique advantages, business class is not as luxurious as first class, which has a few added benefits that include:

• Reclining or lie-flat seats
• Gourmet meal items, such as caviar or exclusive wines
• Higher level priority status at check-in, security, and boarding
• Complimentary slippers, bedding, and expensive toiletries 
• Private lounge access with additional services like showers or sleep pods

Of course, these perks come with a higher price tag, so striking the perfect balance between comfort and price is crucial in selecting your fare. 

The Business Class Advantage

Business class is a clear step up from economy class, so while not as exclusive as first class, it’s the perfect in-between for the average traveler seeking value. The increased legroom, improved food selection, and additional amenities make for a great flight. It’s no wonder so many people prefer flying business class on long-haul journeys.

Pre-Flight Preparation Tips

Are you ready to give business class a go? If so, you’ll want to read these tips before you fly. They’ll help you avoid missing out on some of the perks that business class can offer you, enhancing your overall travel experience and helping you get more value out of the flight!

Booking Strategies

Consider booking well in advance to find the best deals on business class tickets. The prices tend to rise as the departure date gets closer, especially on international flights to popular European destinations, such as London or Paris. 

Fare comparison websites or apps are great places to start your search, allowing you to track prices using alerts. 

If you are already a member of specific loyalty programs, consider checking with those airlines first. You can leverage miles or other travel rewards when booking business-class cabin tickets. 

If not, you may take advantage of booking to participate in special credit card offers that score you bonus miles or statement credits, which can reduce the price of your flight while saving you money on your next flight. 

If you don’t want to worry about spending hours searching for the best business class ticket, specialized services like Business Class Experts can help. We compare the rates across different airlines and find you the best value, even using special rates and promotions that most people don’t have access to!  

Choosing the Right Airline and Seat

Comparing airlines isn’t just so you get the best price—the business class experience varies depending on who you choose to fly with. Some airlines, such as Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Delta, are known for their excellent business class service. 

However, that doesn’t mean other airlines don’t offer a great experience. We recommend checking out airlines’ websites to preview photos of their business class cabin and compare their services. (Our website has resources that can help you do just that!)

Once you narrow down your airline, you’ll need to choose your seat. Pay attention to the location of the lavatory at the front of the plane so you can be sure to avoid seats nearby. Most business class seats have plenty of legroom, but you’ll need to decide whether you want aisle access or a window seat. That’s up to your preferences! 

Making the Most of Airport Amenities

Flying business class gives you access to airport lounges and priority services. Let’s see how to use these to make your preflight experience more enjoyable and serene.  

Exclusive Lounge Access

Business class lounges are luxurious and comfortable places to pass the time before your long-haul flights. Plush seating, complimentary beverages and snacks, WiFi access, and private workspaces allow you to take advantage of the time you spend in the airport to get some work done or relax. On layovers, you may even want to take advantage of shower facilities or spa services sometimes offered in premium lounges. 

Priority Check-In and Boarding

Business class passengers get to skip the lines at check-in and boarding. This expedited boarding cuts out the unpleasant waiting in crowded areas before flights. Some airlines offer personalized attention at check-in, such as offering to check your carry-on so you don’t have to haul it around the airport. However, if you keep it with you during the flight, you are assured plenty of space in the overhead compartments.

Onboard Experience: Maximizing Comfort and Luxury

If you aren’t used to flying business, you may settle into your seat and forget about some of the unique features of this class! Take full advantage of all the extras, including the following.  

Enjoying the Seat Features

Some airlines now offer flatbed seats, which allow you to elevate your feet or lie down completely on your international business-class flight. While not all the seats lie flat, most have adjustable lumbar support or customizable positions. 

Privacy dividers can also make your experience more serene, allowing you to adjust your environment to feel more comfortable. Don’t be ashamed to ask the flight attendant for assistance if you can’t figure out how to use your seat features. They’ll be glad to assist you!

Gourmet Dining and Entertainment

One of the upgrades in the business class is the menu, which features a broader range of options. Often, business class passengers can ask for their meals on demand rather than sticking to set meal times, allowing you to eat when you’re ready. The experience often includes fine wines or spirits, but there are always plenty of non-alcoholic beverages to choose from, too.  

Business class cabins also offer high-speed WiFi, ensuring you stay connected with loved ones during the journey. Don’t forget about other entertainment options, such as the wide selection of movies, shows, and games!

Enhancing Your Productivity and Relaxation

Flying in business class can help you be more productive on your flight or achieve a more relaxed state. Depending on your travel style, here are some tips that can help.

Working Comfortably

• Come prepared: List tasks you hope to accomplish during the flight.
• Use complimentary WiFi to your advantage: Check emails, collaborate on documents, and work on projects requiring focus.
• Create a workspace: Use your wider tray table to create a workspace for your tablet or laptop. Bring a mouse or keyboard for optimal ergonomics. 
• Bring backup tasks: In case of a technical problem with the WiFi, bring along some backup tasks like reading material or paperwork. That will help you stay productive no matter what comes your way. 

Relaxation Techniques

• Take advantage of the amenities: Pillows, blankets, and eye masks can help you get cozy and create a comfortable sleeping environment. 
• Adjust your seat: Remember that business class seats usually recline more or lie flat. Try different positions and see what is most comfortable for your body. 
• Try relaxation exercises: Practicing deep breathing or mindfulness techniques can help you destress on the plane. Come prepared by downloading a guided meditation or a relaxing playlist. 

Destination Arrival: Staying Refreshed and Refined

Long flights are usually synonymous with jetlag and exhaustion, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Business class flights offer some perks that help you arrive at your destination feeling refreshed. 

Utilizing In-Flight Amenities

The inflight amenities aren’t just helpful in catching some sleep—they also help you refresh. Dental hygiene and skin care products offered to passengers in business class are just what you need to feel more alert upon arrival. If your airline provides onboard showers, you may want to take advantage of these so you can arrive at your destination ready to explore. 

Moreover, be sure to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and water retention, especially if you’ve had any alcoholic beverages on the flight. 

Adjusting to Time Zones

If it’s dark during the flight, try to sleep as much as possible. Open your window shade for some natural light when it’s light outside. And, although it can be hard to adjust to a completely different time zone, you’ll want to avoid sleeping as soon as you arrive (unless it’s nighttime at your destination). Be sure to follow a normal schedule, waking up with the sun and going to bed once it’s dark. 

Moreover, you should strive to limit your meals to appropriate timeframes. Regulating your sleep and eating habits once you arrive will allow your circadian rhythm to catch up faster, helping you feel better.

Elevate Your Journey with Business Class Experts

Business class is the ideal blend of comfort, luxury, and efficiency. If you’re ready to see what it’s all about, contact us at Business Class Experts! We can help you explore your options and book your next trip in business class. 

‌

‌