ECONOMY VS BUSINESS CLASS: 5 REASONS WHY THE UPGRADE IS WORTH IT

  • Upgrade to business class for comfort: more legroom, comfortable seats, and privacy make for a better flying experience.
  • Save time with business class: priority access at check-in and security, disembarking first, and avoiding long lines.
  • Enjoy airport lounge access: private workspace, WiFi, buffet, privacy, and amenities like showers and spas.

The majority of our society travels in economy class. While economy is a logical and economical choice that gets you from point A to point B, sometimes upgrading the travel experience to business class is worth the money, especially for long-haul flights. If there are opportunities to upgrade from economy to business class, here are five key reasons why you might consider it worthwhile.

Comfort

Perks: legroom, comfy seats, and privacy

The most obvious and perhaps most important aspect of getting that upgrade is comfort. The spacious setup in business class vastly improves the flying experience compared to economy class, which is why it is a preferred choice for many frequent fliers. Opting for business class undoubtedly ensures a more comfortable journey, particularly on long-haul flights lasting more than eight hours.

Here is why business class is more comfortable than economy class:

  • Ample legroom
  • Comfortable seats with a lay-flat option
  • More privacy

Lay-flat and adjustable seats are game changers that create a very comfortable sleeping setup. These seats are the primary reason that provides a better chance at combating jet lag, as crossing several time zones during a long-haul flight can throw your body into circadian chaos.

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Time saver

No need to arrive at the airport three hours before your flight

While passengers can't control the duration of a flight, by choosing business class, they can avoid worrying about long lines at the check-in counter. Business class travelers usually enjoy priority access at check-in and through security.

Therefore, if you have a business meeting and can only arrive at the airport an hour before your flight, this might not pose a problem, as you will not have to contend with extensive queues. With all the privileges that business class offers, the time that would have been spent in grueling queues could be utilized for something else, such as work or simply enjoying yourself at the airport.

It is worth noting that business class travelers disembark the plane first, which is also a time saver.

It is advisable to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight, as airports can be subject to unforeseen events beyond anyone's control.

Lounge access

Lounges provide greater privacy and convenient workspace

Business class is about more than just comfort during your flight. It starts with comfort from the moment you step into the airport. Business class tickets typically open doors to airport lounges, depending on the airline you booked with. From dinners you had no time to grab to works that need your undivided attention, airport lounges are great places to get it all.

Depending on the lounge, here is what lounges can generally offer:

  • Workspace with conference rooms or cubicles
  • WiFi
  • Buffet with drinks and food
  • More privacy
  • Private bathroom and, in some cases, even a shower
  • Play areas for kids
  • Spa
  • Massage service

Below, find Simple Flying's opinion piece on whether paid airport lounges are worth your money:

Read more: Are Paid Airport Lounges Worth it?

Frequent flyer miles

Business class travelers can accumulate more frequent flyer miles

The fundamental concept of frequent flyer programs is that when you invest your money with a particular airline, it rewards you with miles or points that can be redeemed for complimentary flights or upgraded seating.

Another incentive for flying business class is the opportunity to attain elite frequent flyer status. Passengers accumulate miles through their flights, which can be redeemed for free flights. While mileage used to be based on distance traveled, nowadays, it is also tied to the price of the ticket. Investing in higher-priced business class tickets accrues more miles, facilitating progress toward elite frequent flyer status, meaning more privileges, such as business class upgrades or free flights.

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Food

Business class offers premium meals and higher-class alcohol

As good as airplane food can be, business class offers a superior dining experience compared to economy class.

Business class usually serves three to four-course meals, often accompanied by desserts. Menus feature a diverse range of meal options, providing more choices compared to standard economy class offerings. It also provides a wider array of options to cater to everyone, including vegetarians and vegans.

In addition, business class offers premium alcohol options, such as champagne, assorted cocktails, and fine wines.

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What are your thoughts on this? Would you be willing to upgrade your flight ticket for the reasons mentioned above? Feel free to share in the comments section.

2024-02-19T02:55:27Z dg43tfdfdgfd