I’m a Travel Agent: 5 Flights Where It’s Worth It To Spend Extra Money on Upgrades
Written by
Brooke Barley
Edited by
Rebekah Evans
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Some flights are quick and easy and, when budgeting, probably not worth the extra cash to upgrade anything. But, there are some flights where spending a little extra money might make a huge difference. If you think your money would be better spent on luxuries during the days in your destination, you might be overlooking just how much impact your flight can have on you. GOBankingRates spoke to Sushant Yadav, a travel agent with Travelosei, to determine when you should consider purchasing an upgrade on your flight.
Also see 11 travel hacks to avoid.
Long Flights
Consider exactly what goes into a long flight, which is usually anything above six hours. You’re sitting without entertainment and usually without room to stretch out for the better part of a day. It’s worth looking into some upgrades on these flights for your own care and, sometimes, sanity, Yadav said. “During these long trips, additional comfort and amenities provided by premium cabins can make a big difference in the overall comfort and well-being of the travelers.”
Yadav recommended opting for upgrades on marathon flights like enhanced meal options, priority boarding, spacious seating arrangements and better entertainment systems. These can help the time pass by faster, while making sure you’re not dreading every minute. Upgrading can be as easy as asking the gate agent before you board if there are any upgrades left. One tip is to check how full the flight is beforehand. If it has a lot of extra seats, you’re more likely to receive an upgrade, since those seats aren’t taken.
When You Have a Deadline
If you’re traveling for work or if you just need to get something done during your time in the air, Yadav said it might be worth looking into an internet upgrade or thinking about switching to a higher class. Furthermore, upgrading your ticket can offer you a little more space and quiet in case you need to speak to someone while flying. “For business travelers, premium seats provide extra space and privacy which is ideal for working, having meetings or even relaxing comfortably before arrival at their destination.”
The cost of internet will vary based on airline and the length of the flight. According to Finance Buzz, the price can start around $5 and go up to $20. Although, some airlines will charge for a full day, so if you have multiple flights on one airline in the same day, you can just pay once and have internet for all of your flights that day.
Red Eyes
So, you’ve opted for an overnight flight and you’re banking on being able to get some sleep on the plane. This might be the time to upgrade your ticket to get the utmost comfort. “For travelers taking off on overnight flights, the ability to recline in a sleeping position and sleep comfortably is their primary concern,” Yadav said. “By upgrading to lie-flat seats or premium cabins that come with better bedding arrangements, journeying can be made more restful so that upon arrival at the destination, one will feel refreshed and ready for the day.”
Some airlines will even offer curtains to keep the light out and increase privacy. Others come with “do not disturb” buttons so flight attendants don’t disturb you while you sleep. A first class ticket on Cathay Pacific will get you 500 thread count sheets, which is better than you’ll get at a lot of hotels. Their beds also come with massage functions so you can soothe yourself to sleep.
If You Anticipate Running Late
Say you know you’ll be cutting it close between a meeting or something that ends right before your flight. Yadav said you can pay for services that will make your check-in a lot quicker. “In addition to providing comfort and convenience, flight upgrades may also have practical advantages such as priority check-in and baggage handling services and expedited security screening.” These can help you bypass long lines and get to the plane faster than you would had you not paid for these services.
When You Have a Lot of Time To Kill
Conversely, if you anticipate having to be at an airport for a really long layover, Yadav said paying for lounge access could help the time go by. Plus, lounges can offer you food, beverages and sometimes a shower. One of the best lounges in the world, Air France La Première Lounge in Paris, offers five star meals and a full service spa. The Lufthansa First Class Terminal in Frankfurt has a cigar lounge. You can feel like you’re nowhere near an airport by spending some extra cash.
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