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, uou’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. This is because 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 to consider: 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, as you can imagine, 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 search 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 savehundreds (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 (and your taste buds) 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.
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 – most people prefer to 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. You can 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 opt for a private suite and make it 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.
Use points and miles to upgrade your flight class
Are you a part of any frequent flier programs? Well, with a little bit of strategy and some loyalty program know-how, you too 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, as you can 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, which can be a great way to unlock cheap first class fares. 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.
Book roundtrip fares instead of one-ways
When it comes to booking first class flights, choosing roundtrip fares can save you a significant amount of money compared to booking one-way tickets. Airlines often offer lower fares for roundtrip tickets to incentivize travelers to book their outbound and return 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 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!
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. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
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 just a few of the ways you can 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
