Difficulty:
Easy
Cost:
$51-$250
Average rating:
Most of us would love to fly first class, but either we can't justify the cost or simply can't afford it. Here's a way to increase your odds of enjoying the perks of first class without paying full price.
As a travel agent, I encounter many clients who would love to be able to fly first class without breaking the bank. Often times, the costs of upgrading to first class while booking your vacation can almost double your vacation costs. If you’re traveling and first class is not a need but a want, there are options for trying your luck at getting a bargain first class upgrade.

 

Step 1:

Check out the seat availability. Once you book your vacation and make your seat selections, check out the seat availability map on your flight to see how many first class seats are available. Make a note of it.

Step 2:

Check back. Depending on how many days are remaining until your departure date, check the flight availability maps periodically to see how the flights are booking up. If the economy seats are booking up and first class isn't, this increases your chances.

Step 3:

On the day of your departure, check the seat availability again prior to arriving at the airport. If economy class is sold out, arrive at your airport as soon as you can and work with an airline associate upon check-in to determine the availability of your first class options. Sometimes the availability isn't offered until you arrive at the gate, but by letting the associate know upfront you may be able to "catch the worm."

My fiance and I were taking our annual Jamaican vacation and while waiting at our gate for our connecting flight to Jamaica, the associates announced the first class option for a mere $80 per person each way for a total of $320 for two people round trip as opposed to the usual double expense if booked in the initial stages.

If first class is your strong preference, then this isn't for you, as you're definitely playing the odds of the flight selling out. However, for some it can be an added bonus to a vacation if you're able to capitalize on the discount. It can definitely be the icing on the cake for a fabulous vacation. Happy travels!

About this Author:

Happy Travels,

Ms. Oshana M. Brooks
GDS Travel Solutions
www.gdstravelsolutions.com
866-597-0585


View more information and all guides by OSHANA BROOKS

Comments

Hi Oshana. This is great. I never bother to check these seats. Do all airlines announce the availability of these seats at dscounted prices or do you have to ask? I am very interested.

Mary Norton's picture
By Mary Norton 12 weeks 4 days