Business class and first class flight guide

We want to help our readers discover how to use points and miles to book first and business class tickets. Paying for these tickets in cash can be expensive, but you can use the airline miles you've already earned or the points you've signed up for for certain credit cards to book seats in these premium cabins. Reservations may be possible.

First, you need to understand the difference between first class and business class. It's also important to know what types of benefits you can expect. This will help you decide when it makes sense to pay for an upgrade.

What is the difference between first class and business class?

First class and business class are both premium cabins, but the experiences and seats offered vary by airline. If you're flying domestically in the United States, your flight typically has two cabins: the main cabin and the premium cabin. Main cabins often include a variety of economy fares, while premium cabins are reserved for business class or first class, depending on the route and airline.

When flying internationally from the United States, you may be on a flight that offers both first class and business class. For example, Cathay Pacific's Boeing 777-300 has separate cabins for first class, business class, premium economy, and economy class.

The difference between first class and business class may vary depending on the airline. However, if you fly on a flight that offers both first class and business class, first class will almost always provide a more complete experience. This may include suites with doors, more luxurious food and drink options, or more intimate small cabins.

What to expect when flying first or business class

First and business class experiences vary greatly depending on the airline and route, but here are some perks you can typically expect when flying first or business class.

• Priority check-in, security screening, and boarding.

• Premium seats with more space and a flat bed.

• Complimentary alcoholic beverages and full meal options.

• Dedicated overhead space for carry-on luggage.

• Since you are seated at the front of the plane, you can disembark before other cabins.

In addition to the common business class and first class benefits listed above, here are some more unique benefits you can find on different airlines.

• Qsuites in Qatar have business class seats that can be linked to create a double bed to share with a partner or friend.

• Although this service was recently discontinued, United Airlines sometimes offers Sunday carts for Polaris business class passengers on international flights.

• Emirates offers complimentary chauffeur service to the airport for first class and business class passengers.

The first and business class experiences vary significantly by airline and route, so you should consider what benefits are on offer before purchasing or upgrading to a business or first class ticket.

Why it makes sense to upgrade to first or business class

Depending on when and why you're traveling, it may make sense to upgrade from economy class to first or business class if you have enough cash or points. Below are examples of when it may be appropriate to upgrade your flight.

• For flatbed: If you're traveling from the U.S. to another continent and want a smoother departure once you land, upgrade to First or Business Class and enjoy a lie-flat bed so you'll arrive more rested than just an economy seat. .

• To earn more points and miles: If you're paying for your ticket with cash, flying first or business class can earn you more points and miles, and can also help you maintain or earn elite status.

• For special occasions: If you're traveling for a special reason, such as a honeymoon or a graduation gift, taking advantage of airline benefits will make your trip even more memorable.

When it doesn't make sense to upgrade to first or business class

Upgrading from economy class to first or business class usually comes with some perks, but there are times when it doesn't make sense to upgrade:

• If you're on a short-haul flight and don't have much time to enjoy the premium seats.

• If the airline asks for a large amount of cash or points for an upgrade.

• On daytime flights overseas, you won't be planning on napping or sleeping, which may eliminate the value of a lie-flat seat.

How to earn points and miles quickly

Points and miles can be redeemed for premium cabin award tickets, which can help you save money in the long run. But before you can start using your travel rewards, you need to earn them. Besides flying, another way to accumulate tons of points and miles is to earn sign-up bonuses for travel or airline credit cards.

If you want more flexibility when redeeming miles for award tickets, consider applying for a more general ticket. ride card instead, American Express Platinum Card®. The more popular travel cards differ from airline cards in that they allow you to book flights with multiple airlines, rather than enjoying the benefits of staying loyal to a single brand.

The higher-end your travel card, the more perks you'll enjoy, such as airport lounge access and automatic elite status in certain programs. That said, using a brand-specific airline card can be a great value, with perks like waived baggage fees.

If you're flying business or first class for the first time, you can expect some perks you won't get on an economy class flight, including priority check-in, more comfortable and spacious seats, and expanded food and beverage options.

It doesn't always make sense to upgrade your flight to first or business class, but depending on why you're flying, it may be worth the extra cash or points to upgrade. First or business class experiences can vary by airline and route, so find out what benefits are included with your ticket before you buy.