Why It’s Worth Upgrading To Business Class On Long Haul Flights

Not sure whether you should stretch your budget as far as business class? Check out why we think it’s totally worth it…

We’ve all witnessed business class passengers heading to the airport lounge, skipping all the queues and sipping champagne on board and we’ve all daydreamed of flying in luxury ourselves… Especially when we’re a bit short of space in economy with strangers sitting beside us, nervously having to ask them to get up when we need to go to the toilet. This is just about bearable on shorter flights, but putting up with it for over 4 hours can be a bit of a nightmare.

Frequent travellers opt for business class to avoid such annoyances and on long-haul flights it really makes a difference. Whether it’s for business or leisure, it’s essential to have a pleasant experience on a long-haul flight, as jet lag is yet to come. Do you often wonder if that extra money is worth spending on business class? Read on to find out the benefits of upgrading that make it worth every penny, and why business class is suited to all sorts of passengers with an array of world-class services and amenities.

Access to Airport Lounges
A huge bonus of travelling in business class is that you’ll have the privilege of access to an airport lounge, many of which have shower rooms, dining areas, open bars and complimentary food, from buffets to a la carte meals. You can prepare yourself properly for a long haul journey in an airport lounge, and some even have private relaxation areas, spa facilities and massage services, so you’ll be spoilt before you even board the aircraft. You’ll forget you’re at the airport when you’re spending time in an elegant lounge, sipping a signature cocktail or two on comfortable seating amidst elegant settings.

Less Stress
Business class provides a smooth, stress-reduced journey for passengers. The speedier check-in and boarding means that there’s no being a part of the huge crowds, which takes a great weight off your shoulders. After arriving on board you’ll feel so relaxed the moment you get to your seat, especially after indulging in the airport lounge. After such a seamless airport experience you’ll already feel as though your ticket was money well spent. Another stress you won’t have in business class is your luggage limit - most airlines offer a very generous luggage allowance, so there is no need to excessively weigh your suitcase.

Chauffeur Services
Several airlines offer business class passengers complimentary chauffeur driven car services upon arrival at the airport of your chosen destination, including Emirates, Virgin Atlantic and Qantas. Imagine it, being whisked away in your very own private car as other passengers wait in line for their coach or taxi. This free of charge pre-booked service includes premium state-of-the-art vehicles with professional drivers, offering a true VIP journey. Some airlines even offer chauffeur services in the UK, which means that you won’t need to worry about airport parking and costly cabs and can enjoy a luxury business class service from the moment you leave your door.

On-board Services
Look forward to being completely spoilt in business class with a number of exclusive amenities which are a standard for most airlines. Enjoy a welcome glass of champagne or juice instead of worrying about storing your luggage in the overhead compartments; this alone gets your long haul flight off to a great start and enhances your mood. There’s personal storage space, complimentary toiletries to keep you refreshed, a larger personal screen and noise cancelling headphones, and some airlines even offer free in-flight Wi-Fi to keep you connected. Qatar Airways was recognised for its Business Class this year with the World’s Best Business Class and Best Business Class Seat award at the Skytrax Awards.

Gourmet Food
We can all agree that plane food can sometimes be a bit disappointing, but rarely in business class. Experience upgraded dining options such as dine on demand menus and a la carte dishes, some designed by award-winning chefs and paired with premium wines. Singapore Airlines has a Book the Cook service which allows passengers to order from a gourmet food menu up to 24hrs in advance. The fine quality and exquisite taste of business class meals really enhances your long-haul flight experience, and they are served in courses with added extras such as proper cutlery and personal salt and pepper shakers. This fine dining experience will make you realise why the price is considerably higher in business class.

More Comfort on Board
One of the most significant elements of travelling in business is that you’ll experience extra comfort, which helps you become more rested and ready for your onward travel. The seats are considerably wider, converting into flat beds or a full reclining position, which significantly enhances rest. Business class offers better seat configurations, turn-down services, premium bedding and sometimes extras such as loungewear and built-in massage features. From my personal experience I have never been able to sleep on a flight until the one time that I travelled in business class; I slept for a good 4 hours. The way you’ll feel after a peaceful flight in your own private space is definitely worth the extra money.

They Can Be Good Value
So you may well want to travel in business class but feel like it will only happen in your dreams due to the high expense. Tickets aren’t exactly cheap, but actually, some are offered at great value and the special treats that come with it make it so worth it. There are ways of securing more affordable fares. You could wait for a last minute upgrade, which is when, depending on availability, business class tickets are offered at a discounted price to get the seats filled. Many airlines offer these last minute promotions in emails and some even offer them at the airport check-in counters. It’s good to keep an eye out on these things.

On-Board Bars & Lounges
Finally, one massive perk of business class is the on-board social space. Selected airlines have state-of-the-art lounges and bars aboard their aircrafts, available exclusively for business and first class guests. Leave your seat and head to a cutting edge social area to enjoy complimentary premium beverages, breaking up your long-haul journey. I experienced the A380 bar on board with Emirates and was wowed with the classy setting, delicious free snacks and creative cocktails. It was honestly a highlight of my journey, and you get chatting to other passengers. Virgin Atlantic the Loft lounge is another fantastic example of on-board social space, plus Etihad Airways’ The Lobby.

What do you think? Is it worth upgrading? We say if you have the right funds then go for it, you definitely won’t regret it.