Traveling in business or first class can be a luxurious experience, but it can also be very expensive. However, there are some ways to find cheaper flights in these premium cabins, whether you are planning a trip for work or leisure. Here are some tips on how to fly in style without breaking the bank.
Be Flexible with Your Dates and Destinations
One of the best ways to find cheaper flights in business and first class is to be flexible with your dates and destinations. If you can travel during off-peak seasons, weekdays, or at less popular times of the day, you may be able to score a lower fare. You can also use tools like Google Flights to track flight prices for specific dates and destinations, and set up alerts to notify you when the prices drop.
Another option is to look for alternative airports near your desired destination, or even in another country. For example, if you want to fly to London, you may find cheaper flights from Dublin or Amsterdam than from New York or Los Angeles. You can then use a low-cost carrier or a train to get to your final destination. This strategy can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars on your flight.
Book with Low-Cost Carriers or Smaller Airlines
Another way to find cheaper flights in business and first class is to book with low-cost carriers or smaller airlines that offer premium cabins. These airlines may not have the same level of service, amenities, or loyalty programs as the major carriers, but they can still provide a comfortable and spacious seat at a fraction of the cost. Some examples of low-cost carriers that offer business or first class are Norwegian Air, JetBlue, and AirAsia X. Some examples of smaller airlines that offer premium cabins are Icelandair, TAP Air Portugal, and Aer Lingus.
Bid for an Upgrade in Online Auctions
If you already have a ticket in economy class, you may be able to bid for an upgrade in online auctions. Some airlines offer this option through their websites or apps, where you can enter the amount you are willing to pay for an upgrade to business or first class. If your bid is accepted, you will be notified before your flight and enjoy the benefits of the premium cabin. However, this option is not guaranteed and depends on the availability of seats and the demand for upgrades.
Some examples of airlines that offer online auctions for upgrades are American Airlines, Etihad Airways, and Lufthansa. You can also use third-party platforms like Plusgrade or Seatfrog to bid for upgrades on various airlines.
Upgrade with Frequent Flyer Loyalty Programs
If you are a member of a frequent flyer loyalty program, you may be able to use your miles or points to upgrade your flight to business or first class. This can be a great way to get more value out of your miles or points, especially if you have a lot of them or they are about to expire. However, this option also depends on the availability of seats and the demand for upgrades, and may require a co-pay or a surcharge.
Some examples of frequent flyer loyalty programs that offer upgrades are Delta SkyMiles, United MileagePlus, and British Airways Executive Club. You can also use transferable points from credit cards like American Express Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, or Citi ThankYou Points to book flights or upgrade your flights with various airlines.
Wait for Sales on Business Class Airfares
Another way to find cheaper flights in business or first class is to wait for sales on airfares. Some airlines offer discounts on their premium cabins during certain periods of the year, such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, New Year’s Eve, or Valentine’s Day. These sales may only last for a few days or hours, so you need to act fast and book your flight as soon as you see a good deal.
Some examples of airlines that offer sales on business class airfares are Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines. You can also use websites like Scott’s Cheap Flights , The Flight Deal , or Secret Flying to find deals on business class flights from various airlines.
Travel Alone
If you are traveling alone, you may have a better chance of finding cheaper flights in business or first class than if you are traveling with someone else. This is because airlines often have single seats available in their premium cabins that they want to fill up, and they may offer them at lower prices than usual. However, this option may not be ideal if you want to enjoy the flight with your travel companion or if you need to sit together for safety reasons.
Dress Nicely and Be Polite
Finally, one of the simplest ways to find cheaper flights in business or first class is to dress nicely and be polite. This may not guarantee you an upgrade, but it can increase your chances of getting one if there are any seats available in the premium cabin. Airlines often prefer to upgrade passengers who look professional and courteous than those who look casual and rude. You can also try to ask for an upgrade politely and discreetly at the check-in counter or the gate, but do not be pushy or entitled. You may also want to mention any special occasion or reason for your trip, such as a honeymoon, a birthday, or a business meeting.
