Although traveling is exciting, it can also be extremely exhausting. Standing for hours in airport lines. Eating lousy food. Sitting in an uncomfortable seat on the plane beside screaming children. And waiting waiting waiting. All of these annoyances can make it seem like it’s not even worth traveling if you’re going to arrive at your destination feeling tired and frustrated.
But what about flying business class? Is it worth the extra money?
The short answer is: YES!
Okay, it will cost you more money, but you can actually find great discounts when flying business class to Paris or any other destination.
Royal Treatment at the Airport
Flying business class makes all the difference in the world. First of all, forget about those endless lines at the airport. Most facilities let business class travelers use a faster security line, which allows you to arrive later at the airport. You can board first and you’re off the plane first too. There are no additional baggage fees, and yours will be the first ones to come off the belt when you arrive. Flying business class is starting to sound pretty great already!
How do you get through airport security faster?
- Have your boarding pass and passport in hand. You don’t want to be fumbling for your paperwork at the last minute. Remember the Boy Scout motto – be prepared.
- Pick the right security line. Scope out the lines ahead of time and look for a line with the most business travelers. Businesspeople tend to move through security lines faster than tourists, tour groups or families with small children.
- Dress for the occasion. You could waste a lot of time and slow up the security process by having to remove belts, jewelry or having to undo troublesome laces. Pack your belts, jewelry and any electronics like phones in your carry-on bag. And be sure to wear shoes, like loafers, that can be removed and put on quickly. Now is not the time to wear those high lace up boots.
- Know airport rules. Be sure to know what is and what is not allowed on international flights. Nick Ellis, from ThePointsGuy.com, reminds us that “laptops must be removed from their cases and placed in their own bin, unless you’re in a PreCheck lane. Make sure that any liquids in your carry on bag are in a clear plastic bag (you can read the rules for the TSA’s 3-1-1 policy here). Throw away any plastic bottles with liquid in them and make sure to empty your reusable bottle before going through the security line.”
Eat Like a King
Okay, we all know how disgusting airplane food can be. But business class travelers are treated to an entirely different culinary experience aboard the plane. Enjoy black caviar, filet mignon and other delicacies, thoughtfully prepared by top level chefs, as you cruise through the sky. Drink premium wine and top-shelf scotch, or sample some international beer while dreaming about arriving in your destination. Or would you rather eat reheated mystery meat? Forget it! Eating well is another one of the extraordinary advantages of flying business class.
What’s on the menu of an international flight? Check out these sample main courses for longhaul business dining on a British Airways flight:
- Slow braised Herefordshire beef cheek and mature Cheddar cheese potato au gratin with baby shallots and gingered carrots
- Sustainably sourced fillet of cod with almond satay-style sauce, steamed jasmine rice and aubergine curry
- Artisan garganelli pasta tossed in a creamy wild mushroom sauce finished with slow-roasted tomatoes and grated Pecorino
Enjoy Absolute Comfort
Business class seats are so superior to economy class that you’ll want to choose premium travel forever onward. Imagine actually having enough leg room without feeling cramped at all. Feel like resting? Most business class airlines have seats that can fully recline to provide you with a luxurious sleeping environment. Want to work? Premium airline tickets provide you with everything that you need to be productive, including in-seat power supplies, USB ports, and roomy desk space, all in a quiet environment.
If you want to make sure your flight is stress-free, don’t forget your plane manners. This info graphic from London City Airport illustrates the worst habits of airplane passengers.
Relax In Airport Lounges
We might have saved the best for last. Flying business class provides you with access to exclusive airport lounges. These amazing facilities actually make waiting for your flight an enjoyable experience. Rejuvenate with extravagant spa services, feast on five-star cuisine and top quality beverages, and completely relax in comfortable seating areas. Spending time in posh airport lounges will make you feel like royalty, turning your time in the airport into an exceptionally enjoyable part of the overall travel experience.
According to travel consultant, blogger, and avid points collector, Ben Schlappig (aka Lucky), some of the most amazing airport lounge amenities include:
- Etihad Lounge Abu Dhabi Barber Shop
- Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse London Hot Tub
- Finnair Lounge Helsinki Sauna
- Delta SkyClub Atlanta Outdoor Deck
Flying Business Class is Worth It
So, yes, flying business class costs more, but it’s definitely worth the extra expense. We only live once, and we don’t want to spend that life dealing with the headaches that come along with economy travel. Make the decision to purchase premium tickets and you are guaranteed to arrive at your destination feeling amazing. Make the most of your trip every time by flying business class!
