Flying first class offers luxury, comfort, and exclusive perks, but the price tag can be steep. Fortunately, there are ways to experience premium travel without paying full price. Here’s how to upgrade your travel experience for less.
1. Use Airline Miles and Points
One of the best ways to score a first-class seat is through frequent flyer miles and credit card points.
- Sign up for airline loyalty programs – Major airlines offer rewards programs where you can earn miles for flights and purchases.
- Get a travel rewards credit card – Cards like Chase Sapphire Preferred, American Express Platinum, and Capital One Venture let you earn points that can be redeemed for upgrades.
- Transfer points to airline partners – Some credit cards allow you to transfer points to airline programs for better redemption rates.
2. Look for Discounted First-Class Fares
First-class tickets don’t always come at sky-high prices.
- Book during fare sales – Airlines occasionally offer discounts on premium seats.
- Check Google Flights and Skyscanner – Use fare comparison tools to find the lowest prices.
- Look for mistake fares – Sometimes, airlines accidentally list first-class tickets at a lower price. Sites like Secret Flying track these deals.
3. Bid for an Upgrade
Many airlines offer upgrade bidding, where you can bid for a first-class seat at a lower price than a full-fare ticket.
- Check your airline’s policy – Some airlines, like Lufthansa and Virgin Atlantic, allow passengers to place bids.
- Use the airline’s app – If an upgrade is available, you might see an offer before your flight.
4. Ask for a Paid Upgrade at Check-In
If first-class seats are available, airlines sometimes offer discounted upgrades at check-in or the gate.
- Arrive early and ask politely – Agents may have special offers for passengers.
- Dress well and be courteous – While it’s not a guarantee, looking professional can sometimes help your chances.
5. Fly During Off-Peak Times
Flights with lower demand often have cheaper first-class seats.
- Avoid peak travel seasons – Holidays and summer months are usually more expensive.
- Choose mid-week flights – Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to have lower fares.
6. Use Companion Upgrades or Status Perks
- Elite status benefits – Frequent travelers with airline status often receive complimentary upgrades.
- Companion upgrades – Some credit cards and airline loyalty programs offer free upgrades for a travel companion.
7. Consider Premium Economy as an Alternative
If first class is out of reach, premium economy offers extra legroom, better service, and priority boarding at a fraction of the cost.
Flying first class doesn’t have to mean paying full price. By leveraging miles, tracking fare deals, and taking advantage of upgrade opportunities, you can enjoy a luxury travel experience without breaking the bank.