What many people say is that flying business class is a luxury exclusive for the elite, but the truth is that you don’t have to be rich to taste those lie flat seats and gourmet meals. We have insider tricks up my sleeve that have helped thousands of travelers fly for less — and upgrade their experience all the while.
The Upgrade Game is Your Best Friend
Rather than becoming a purchaser of cheapest business class tickets, try to get upgraded from economy. Airlines want to fill their premium seats as cheaper and they’re often (and this isn’t always the case) willing to upgrade you for a fraction of the full business class price. First, book the cheapest economy ticket you can and then, see if there are upgrade options.
Airline paid upgrades are available at check in most often 24 hours before your flight. The route and demand dictate the amount you spend on these upgrades – usually from $100 to $400. Consider cheapest business class tickets which can run thousands over economy tickets and you’ll understand just how valuable this approach is. Even if you’re one who doesn’t fly much, sign up for airline loyalty programs. That will save you cash and allow you first dibs on upgrade opportunities.
Arrive at the airport early and politely ask if there’s room for upgrades at the check in counter— another smart move. Sometimes, gate agents will work last minute upgrade deals because they’re not full in the business class cabin. In these situations being well dressed and friendly goes a very long way.
Hunt Down Those Hidden Deals
However, they are not always easy to find. At specific times, airlines release discounted premium seats and if you can get lucky enough to see them, you save thousands. Airlines tend to adjust their prices on Tuesday afternoons, so it’s usually a good time to find deals.
Comparison websites dedicated to premium cabin deals are the way to go. These aggregate business class fares on multiple airlines and give you a heads up when prices drop.
Look into airlines you’ve never even heard of or flights with layovers. Asian and Middle Eastern carriers are often able to offer competitive prices on business class and their service as good (or better) than that of traditional Western airlines. The direct 12 hour flight in economy can cost the same as the 16 hour flight with 1 lay over in business class.
Think Beyond the Obvious Routes
Position flights — short, domestic flights that get you to a city where the international business class deals are better — are often even allowed by some carriers. You’ll often find it cheaper flying business class from a hub, booking a discounted business class international flight, than flying business class from your local airport.
One way last minute business class tickets might sometimes be more reasonably priced during off season. Combine and match airlines for your outward and return flights to get the best price for you.
