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Ever dreamed of flying first class but thought it was too expensive? Think again. You don’t have to be a millionaire to experience the luxury of first class travel. There are many ways to find fantastic deals and snag a seat in the front of the plane without breaking the bank. Here’s everything you need to know about how to get cheap first class flights.
First class travel is an experience like no other. From the moment you step onboard, you’re treated to top-notch service, gourmet meals, and luxurious amenities. Stretch out in your spacious seat with extra legroom and enjoy the comfort of a lie-flat bed. The flight attendants offer personalized attention and service that truly sets first class apart from the rest.
In addition to the top-notch service, you’ll have access to exclusive lounges at the airport to enjoy complimentary meals before your flight. Once onboard, you’ll be served premium food and drinks, with menus curated by renowned chefs and sommeliers. And with cutting-edge entertainment systems, you’ll enjoy the latest movies and TV shows in high-def.
Anyone can find great deals on first class flights. I’ve seen cheap 1st class flights for 60-90% off. By knowing when to book, which airlines to choose, and how to use reward programs, you can save big on your next first class ticket.
So, whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, don’t let the price tag scare you from 1st class travel. With proper planning, you’ll enjoy a comfortable and unforgettable journey on the cheap. So why not treat yourself to the high life and upgrade to first class on your next flight? Your comfort and relaxation are worth it!
Best sites to find flights with first class
Before jumping into all my best tips and hacks to get cheap first class tickets, I first want to highlight some of the best travel websites where you can find amazing deals.
Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights)
If you’re on the lookout for cheap first class flight deals, look no further than Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). This website is a treasure trove of travel deals, offering the latest and greatest discounts on flights across the globe.
Here’s how it works: first, sign up for Going’s free email alerts. From there, the team scours the web for the best flight deals, including first class tickets, and sends cheap deals directly to your inbox. This means you don’t have to spend hours scanning the web for cheap flight deals. They do all the hard work for you!
Not only does this save you time and hassle, but it also saves you money. With Going, you can find first class tickets at a fraction of the normal price. The team is constantly monitoring airline sales and deals, and will alert you once discounts become available. And the best part? It’s 100% free!
In addition to the free version, there are two other membership options: Premium and Elite. The Premium version is $49 per month (though I have a 20% off discount code that you can use: JON20). The Elite version is $199 per year, and it gives you the best of the best features and functionalities. Using Going Elite, I recently saw a first class flight from New York to Dubai for just $2,500 (a savings of $7,500!!). So this service quickly pays for itself…after taking just one flight!
So if you’re dreaming of a first class flight but don’t want to pay full price, sign up for Going and let the savings roll in. It’s one of the best ways to book the cheapest first class flights!
Dollar Flight Club
Ready to fly in style without breaking the bank? Don’t miss Dollar Flight Club, one of the best websites to find cheap first class flight deals.
So what sets Dollar Flight Club apart from other sites? For one, it focuses solely on finding the best flight deals, with a team of experts scouring the web to bring you affordable options. But it’s not just about finding cheap flights. Dollar Flight Club prides itself on finding deals for first class tickets, so you can enjoy luxury travel without the hefty price tag.
Here’s how it works: you sign up for a free or premium membership and customize your preferences. Dollar Flight Club then sends you personalized alerts when they find a deal that fits your criteria. And with premium membership, you get access to even more exclusive deals, plus the ability to search for specific departure cities and destinations.
But the real magic of Dollar Flight Club is the savings. Members can save hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars on first class flights. I saved over $500 my first time using it! And let’s be real – who doesn’t want to sip champagne in a fully reclining seat, with gourmet meals and personalized service, all while saving money? It’s the ultimate travel hack for flying.
Dollar Flight Club also offers a 100% money-back guarantee for premium members. If you don’t save more than the cost of your membership, they’ll give you a full refund. That’s how confident they are in their ability to find you the best deals.
So, what are you waiting for? Sign up for Dollar Flight Club and start planning your next first class flight. Your wallet will thank you!
Secret Flying
This is another free email service that finds you cheap airfare around the world. It’s 100% free, easy to use, and effective in finding cheap 1st class flights.
Here’s what sets Secret Flying apart: the website features an extensive list of flight deals from around the world, including many first class options. You can browse through deals by region, departure city, and even by airline. This makes it easy to find the perfect first class flight for your next adventure. Plus, the website is updated frequently with the latest deals, so you can be sure that you’re getting the most up-to-date information.
But the real magic of Secret Flying is in the prices. The website offers some of the best deals on first class flights that you’ll find anywhere. How do they do it? By scouring the web for the latest airline promotions, discounts, flash sales, and mistake fares. From there, they share these deals with their subscribers. This means that you can often find first class tickets for a fraction of their normal price. And with so many amazing deals to choose from, you’re sure to find something that fits your budget and your travel goals.
What’s more, Secret Flying is incredibly user-friendly. The website is easy to navigate, with a simple search function and clear categories. You can sign up for email alerts to receive the latest flight deals directly in your inbox, and the website also has a handy mobile app that you can use on-the-go. With Secret Flying, finding a cheap first class flight has never been easier or more convenient. In my opinion, it isn’t quite as good as Going (Scott’s Cheap Flights). But it’s definitely a great resource for first class hackers.
Tips to find cheap first class flight tickets
Here are some other tips and travel hacks to help you get the cheapest 1st class flights.
Buying first class tickets from the get-go can be very expensive
Generally speaking, I don’t recommend buying a first class fare outright. Ticket prices tend to be inflated, so I recommend using points and miles to cover the cost instead. There are notable exceptions to this rule, including the tips below and using Scott’s Cheap Flights to find heavily discounted airfare.
Fly during weekends
Did you know that flying first class on the weekends can actually save you money? That’s right, you don’t have to be a business traveler to score a great deal on premium seats.
Think about it – when was the last time you saw someone with a suit and tie flying on a Saturday or Sunday? Most business travelers fly on weekdays for work, so airlines often have more empty seats on the weekends. And what do they do with those empty seats? They offer them up at discounted prices, of course! So not only can you fly in style, but you can also do it without breaking the bank.
Plus, flying first class on the weekends can be a fun experience in itself. Start your weekend off with a glass of champagne and a gourmet meal in a spacious seat, instead of crammed in economy class. And if you’re flying with a companion, you can even get a private suite and enjoy a romantic getaway in the sky.
But don’t just take our word for it – try it out for yourself! Next time you’re planning a weekend getaway, check out first class fares for Saturday or Sunday departures. You might be surprised at the savings you’ll find. And hey, even if you don’t end up snagging a deal, at least you’ll have a little taste of the high life while you’re up in the air. Cheap first class flights await you!
Use points and miles to upgrade your flight class
Are you a part of any frequent flier or loyalty programs? Well, with a little bit of strategy, you can unlock cheap first class fares using points and miles.
One strategy is to look for airlines that offer upgrades from economy to first class using points. For example, with Delta Airlines, you can use your SkyMiles to upgrade from economy to first class for a fraction of the cost of booking a first class ticket outright. This is a great way to use your points strategically. You can also save them for more valuable redemptions in the future.
Another strategy is to book a flight that has a cash and points option. This means that you can use a combination of cash and points to book your flight. As such, it can be a great way to unlock cheap first class flights. For example, with British Airways, you can use a combination of Avios points and cash to book a first class ticket, which can save you thousands of dollars.
Finally, it’s important to make the most of your loyalty program status. Many airlines offer elite status to frequent flyers, which can come with perks such as free upgrades to first class. By maximizing your loyalty program status, you’ll increase your chances of getting upgraded to first class without having to use your points and miles.
So, next time you’re booking a flight, remember that there are ways to unlock cheap first class fares using points and miles. By using these strategies, you can enjoy the luxurious amenities of first class without breaking the bank. For more tips about this, read next: Top travel hacks for flying in 2023.
Get a co-branded credit card with your favorite airline
If you want to fly first class for cheap, I recommend getting an elite, co-branded credit card. Many of these cards offer generous sign-up bonuses. This will get you at least 50% of the way there to buying a first class ticket.
Book roundtrip fares instead of one-ways
When it comes to booking cheap first class flights, choosing roundtrip fares can save you a lot of money compared to one-way tickets. Airlines offer lower fares for roundtrip tickets to incentivize travelers to book both flights with the same airline.
By booking a roundtrip first class ticket, you’ll take advantage of these lower fares and save money in the process. This is especially true if you are traveling during peak travel periods, such as holidays or summer vacation, when one-way first class fares can be exorbitant.
Additionally, booking a roundtrip ticket can provide peace of mind by guaranteeing your return flight. This is particularly important if you are traveling for business or have a tight schedule, as it eliminates the risk of having to book a last-minute one-way ticket at a premium price.
Of course, there are some situations where booking one-way first class tickets may make more sense. This includes when you have flexible travel dates or are only traveling one-way. However, if you are planning a roundtrip journey and want to save money while enjoying the luxuries of first class, booking a roundtrip fare is the way to go.
When booking the cheapest first class flights, choosing a roundtrip fare can be a smart way to save money. It will also ensure a stress-free travel experience.
Seek a flight upgrade when you check in at the airport
While it’s not guaranteed that this strategy for finding cheap first class tickets will work, here are some tips that will increase your chances:
- Be polite and friendly to the check-in agent: While it’s not a guarantee, being polite and friendly to the check-in agent may increase your chances of getting an upgrade. Agents are more likely to help out customers who are courteous and respectful.
- Dress appropriately: If you’re hoping for an upgrade, it’s a good idea to dress nicely. While it’s not a guarantee, airlines may be more likely to upgrade passengers who are dressed professionally or at least well put-together.
- Ask about the possibility of an upgrade: Once you’ve checked in for your flight, politely ask the check-in agent if there are any first class upgrades available. If there are, ask about the cost of the upgrade. In some cases, airlines may offer a discounted rate for upgrades at the airport.
- Consider joining the airline’s loyalty program: If you frequently fly with a particular airline, consider joining their loyalty program. Members of these programs often receive priority treatment when it comes to upgrades.
- Be flexible with your travel plans: If you’re willing to be flexible with your travel plans, you may score a cheaper first class upgrade. For example, if you’re willing to take a later flight, the airline may offer you an upgrade at a discounted rate.
Ask for a first class flight upgrade when you get on the plane
Once the cabin doors are closed, check to see if there is an open 1st class seat on the plane. From there, don’t be afraid to ask a flight attendant if you can sit there. The worst thing they can do is say no, and every once in a while, you could score a free or discounted upgrade. Unfortunately, this doesn’t work on some of the bigger airlines anymore, but it’s always worth a try.
Do NOT book business class with the intention of upgrading to first class
Some people do this thinking that they’ll get a cheap first class upgrade. Sadly, this is not the case. A business class ticket costs up to five times more than economy tickets, and more often than not, you’ll still end up paying a fortune for a first class flight. Instead, buy a coach or premium economy fare, and upgrade from there. As such, it’s important to be strategic when finding cheap first class flights.
Ask for an upgrade if the flight is overbooked
When flights are overbooked, airlines are often willing to give passengers an incentive to move to a later flight. This is a great opportunity to find a first class deal.
If you’re not in a rush and you’re looking to score cheap first class tickets on a flight, consider volunteering to give up your seat. Not only will they give you a flight voucher and a free hotel stay with meals, but they also may be willing to upgrade your new ticket to first class. Is this one of the best ways to find cheap flights for first class? You bet!
Best time to book first class flights
To find the best deals and discounts on first-class flights, timing is everything. Knowing when to book your ticket can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Here are some tips on the best time to book the cheapest first class flights:
- Book early: Generally, the earlier you book your first-class flight, the better the deal you’ll get. Aim to book your flight at least 4-6 weeks in advance. Airlines often offer discounts to customers who book early to fill up their seats.
- Consider off-season travel: Peak travel seasons such as summer or holidays are the most expensive times to fly. Consider traveling during off-peak periods to find cheaper first-class flights.
- Book at the right time: The day and time of the week you book your first-class flight can also impact the price. Many experts recommend booking on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, as airlines often release new sales and deals mid-week. Additionally, consider booking late at night or early in the morning as airlines release new fares at these times.
- Be flexible with flying dates: If you have flexibility with your travel dates, use this to your advantage. This can often result in significant savings on a cheapest first class flight.
- Monitor price changes: Keep an eye on the price of your 1st class flight after you’ve booked it. If the price drops, you may be able to get a refund or credit for the difference. Some airlines offer a “price match” guarantee that will match the price if it drops within a certain period after booking. This will help you find cheap first class flights in the long run.
Cheapest first class airlines
If you’re looking for a luxurious flying experience without breaking the bank, there are several airlines that offer first-class seats at affordable prices. Here are 4 airlines that are known for providing top-notch service without breaking the bank:
1. AirAsia X
Picture this: you’re soaring through the skies, reclining in a luxurious first-class seat, sipping on a chilled glass of champagne, and living your best life – all without breaking the bank. Well, it’s not just a dream – it’s the reality offered by AirAsia X in 2023. This low-cost airline based in Malaysia is making waves by providing a premium experience with their “Premium Flatbed” seats, starting at just $500 USD one-way on select routes. So, buckle up and get ready to fly high without emptying your wallet.
2. Emirates Airlines:
Emirates Airlines is one of the world’s leading airlines. They also offer some of the most affordable first-class seats in the industry. Their first-class cabins feature private suites with fully flat beds, personal mini-bars, and on-demand entertainment. Emirates is also known for their exceptional service, which includes a personal flight attendant for each first-class passenger.
3. Etihad Airways:
Etihad Airways is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates and is known for its luxurious first-class cabins. Their cabins feature private suites with a fully flat bed, a personal mini-bar, and on-demand entertainment. Etihad Airways also offers a luxurious lounge experience for first-class passengers. It includes a spa, a cigar lounge, and a gourmet dining experience.
4. Singapore Airlines is among the cheapest airlines for first class
Singapore Airlines is consistently ranked as one of the best airlines in the world. And their first-class cabins are no exception. Their first-class suites feature a fully enclosed private space, with a separate bed and a leather recliner. They are also equipped with personal entertainment systems and noise-cancelling headphones. Singapore Airlines also offers an exceptional in-flight dining experience, with a menu designed by world-renowned chefs.
5. Cathay Pacific Airways:
Cathay Pacific Airways is a Hong Kong-based airline that offers affordable first-class seats. Their first-class cabins feature private suites with a fully flat bed, a personal mini-bar, and on-demand entertainment. Cathay Pacific is also known for their exceptional service. This includes a personal flight attendant for each first-class passenger and a wide selection of gourmet meals.
Overall, if you’re looking for a cheap first-class experience, these airlines offer a great balance of luxury and affordability. Whether you’re flying for business or leisure, you’re sure to have a comfortable and enjoyable flight with any of these airlines.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the cheapest first class flights
Here are some popular questions and answers about getting first class flights for cheap:
How much does it usually cost to fly first-class?
Wondering how much is a 1st class plane ticket? The cost of flying first-class can vary greatly depending on various factors. This includes the airline, route, time of year, and demand.
Generally speaking, first-class tickets can cost several times more than economy tickets for the same flight. Some first-class tickets can cost thousands of dollars. Others may be obtained through the use of airline miles or other loyalty program benefits.
However, the experience of flying first-class can be worth the extra cost for those who value luxury, comfort, and convenience while traveling.
What is the world’s cheapest first class seat?
AirAsia X, a low-cost airline based in Malaysia, offers a first-class experience with their “Premium Flatbed” seats. These seats include lie-flat seats, personal TVs, and priority boarding, and can be booked for as little as $500 USD one-way on shorter routes. While the experience may not be as luxurious as high-end airlines, it is still a great way to fly first-class without breaking the bank.
Is it worth paying for first class?
Is it worth shelling out the big bucks for first class? Well, that really depends on what you value in your travel experience. If you’re someone who craves the finer things in life, then the plush seats, gourmet meals, and premium drinks in first class may be worth the extra dough. Plus, there’s the added benefit of more legroom, extra space to stretch out, and priority boarding and baggage handling.
But, if you’re someone who doesn’t care about the bells and whistles and just wants to get from point A to point B without breaking the bank, then first class may not be worth it for you. After all, you’ll still arrive at your destination safe and sound without having to spend a small fortune.
In the end, it really comes down to personal preference and budget. So, whether you’re flying coach or first class, just remember to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride! Is 1st class worth it? Absolutely!
Is it cheaper to upgrade to first-class after booking?
It is possible to upgrade to first class after booking, but whether or not it is cheaper depends on a number of factors. Airlines may offer upgrades for a variety of reasons, such as to reward loyalty program members, to fill empty seats, or to generate additional revenue.
If there are empty seats in first class, airlines may offer upgrades at a discounted rate in order to generate additional revenue. However, if first-class seats are in high demand, then the cost of an upgrade may be quite expensive.
Another factor to consider is the type of ticket you have purchased. If you have purchased a discounted economy ticket, the cost of upgrading to first class may be prohibitively expensive. On the other hand, a more expensive economy ticket may make an upgrade more feasible.
In general, it is best to do your research and compare the cost of upgrading to first class before and after booking to determine which option makes the most sense for you. Keep in mind that upgrading to first class can be a luxurious and comfortable experience. However, it may not always be the most cost-effective option.
How to find cheap first-class flights?
Looking for the cheapest first-class flights can be a bit of a challenge, but with some strategy and flexibility, it’s possible to find some great deals.
One way to find cheap first-class flights is to be flexible with your travel dates. Try searching for flights on different days of the week or during off-peak travel periods when demand is lower. You can also use travel apps and websites to search for the cheapest first-class flights across different dates and airlines. This includes Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak.
Another way to find cheap first-class flights is to sign up for airline loyalty programs and newsletters. Many airlines offer exclusive deals and discounts to their loyalty program members. And by subscribing to their newsletters, you can stay up-to-date on the latest promotions and sales.
You can also try using points and miles to book first-class flights. Many airlines offer reward programs that allow you to earn points or miles with each flight. This, in turn, can be redeemed for free or discounted flights. Additionally, some credit cards offer points or miles for spending, which can be transferred to pay for first-class flights.
Finally, consider booking your first-class flights through a travel agent who specializes in finding discounted first-class flights. They may have access to exclusive deals and promotions that are not available to the general public, and can help you find the best possible price for your luxury travel experience.
Is it cheaper to fly first class or private?
Let’s face it, we’ve all dreamed of living the high life and traveling in style on a private jet. But is it really cheaper than flying first class? Well, the answer is not a simple one. The cost of flying first class versus private can vary greatly depending on a number of factors.
If you’re looking to travel with a group of friends or family, a private jet can be a great option. It allows the cost to be shared among everyone. However, if you’re traveling solo, flying first class may actually be the more affordable option, as the cost of chartering a private jet can be quite steep.
Another thing to consider is the distance you’ll be traveling. For shorter flights, first-class tickets may be cheaper than a private jet. However, for longer journeys, the price difference can be smaller or even reversed. Note that private jets offer more flexibility and can avoid layovers and connection fees.
Finally, there are other factors to consider. This includes the level of luxury and comfort you’re looking for, as well as the convenience and flexibility of a private jet versus a commercial flight. While private jets offer unmatched luxury and convenience, they may not always be the most cost-effective option.
In the end, whether it’s cheaper to fly first class or private depends on your budget, travel needs, and personal preferences. So is private jet cheaper than first class? The answer is it depends!
Can you sleep in first class?
You betcha! One of the biggest perks of flying first class is catching some much-needed zzz’s on a long flight. With spacious seats that recline into a fully-flat bed, plush pillows and blankets, and noise-cancelling headphones, first-class cabins offer the ultimate sleeping experience in the sky.
And that’s not all! Some airlines even offer luxurious amenities like pajamas, slippers, and high-end skincare products. These will help you feel refreshed and pampered when you wake up.
So, whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, flying first class offers a great opportunity to get some shut-eye. Just remember to set your watch to your destination’s time zone, turn off your phone, and get ready to snooze in style!
Are first class upgrades cheaper at the airport?
Whether or not first-class upgrades are cheaper at the airport can depend on a number of factors. In some cases, airlines offer last-minute upgrades to fill empty seats in first class at a discounted price.
However, this is not always the case, and it’s generally not recommended to rely on airport upgrades as a cost-saving strategy. In fact, airlines are becoming more savvy about selling their first-class seats. So, they may not offer any discounted upgrades at the airport.
To increase your chances of snagging a discounted first-class upgrade, join the airline’s loyalty program. Or, sign up for its credit card, which often comes with perks such as complimentary upgrades or discounted rates.
Another option is to bid on an upgrade through the airline’s bidding system. This allows you to bid on available first-class seats before your flight. This can be a great way to secure a first-class seat at a lower price, but be prepared to bid competitively.
Overall, while it’s possible to get a cheaper first-class upgrade at the airport, it’s not a reliable or guaranteed option. By planning ahead and utilizing loyalty programs, credit card perks, and bidding systems, you can increase your chances of getting that first-class upgrade at a more affordable price.
Can you sit in first class if it’s empty?
While it may be tempting to try, sitting in an empty first-class seat without permission is generally not allowed and could result in being asked to move back to your assigned seat.
However, there are a few scenarios where you may be able to sit in an empty first-class seat. If you have a medical condition or disability that requires additional space, or if there’s an equipment change that results in more first-class seats than passengers, you may be allowed to sit in an empty first-class seat.
Additionally, some airlines may offer complimentary upgrades to passengers if there are empty first-class seats available. This is more likely to happen for frequent fliers, loyalty program members, or passengers celebrating a special occasion.
So, while sitting in an empty first-class seat without permission is generally not allowed, there are some scenarios where you may be able to snag that luxurious spot. But remember, it’s always best to ask permission first and be respectful of airline policies and other passengers.
Is business class the same as first class?
Business class and first class may both offer a more luxurious and comfortable flying experience than economy class, but they are not the same thing.
First class is generally considered to be the most luxurious class of service. It’s known to have larger seats that recline into a fully flat bed, more privacy, higher quality meals, and more personalized service.
Business class, on the other hand, offers many of the same perks as first class,. However, they come with slightly less space and amenities. You’ll still enjoy comfortable seats that recline, priority boarding, and enhanced meals and entertainment options. But may not have access to the same level of luxury and personalized service as in first class.
Of course, every airline is different, and the differences between business class and first class can vary. It will generally depend on the airline, route, and aircraft type. Some airlines may offer a hybrid class between business and first, while others may have a larger gap between the two classes.
In the end, whether you opt for business or first class depends on your budget and personal preferences. But one thing is for sure, both classes offer a much more enjoyable flying experience than cramped economy class!
Final thoughts on how to fly first class for cheap
Flying first class is a truly unique and luxurious experience that can make your travel more enjoyable and memorable. From comfortable seats and exquisite dining to personalized service and exclusive lounges, first-class flying can be a cool experience that leaves you feeling refreshed and relaxed.
While first-class tickets can be expensive, there are many tips and strategies you can use to score affordable seats. Checking in early, volunteering to be bumped, and being flexible with travel dates are a few ways to secure cheaper first-class tickets. By taking advantage of airline loyalty programs and using a travel agent, you can also find special deals and promotions that may not be available to the general public.
As such, flying first class is an indulgent and exciting experience that can elevate your travel to a whole new level. With the tips and strategies outlined in this article, you can find cheap first-class tickets. You’ll also enjoy all the luxuries that first-class travel has to offer without breaking the bank. So why not treat yourself to a first-class flying experience and make your next trip a truly unforgettable one? Happy Travels! -Jon
