Business Class Tickets - 10 Insider Tips
Want to get a huge discount on business class tickets? Or simply wish to make your long-haul business class flights productive or restful? Here are insider tips and techniques to make sure you find the best flight deals, hotel rates, airline freebies, productivity apps, and more for your next international business trip.
Score cheap business class tickets with the help of flight gurus.
Why pay more for business class flights when you can get them for a lot less through a trusted travel agency? Speak to your flight guru, say where you need to go, and get cheap business class fares for your next work trip. Opt for highly personalized service from the travel agent who will do all the legwork to give you the extra legroom you deserve.
Get deep discounts at high-end hotels with the right contact.
Whether you are booking your hotel last minute or months ahead, you can snag some deals if you know where to look. Some travel agencies have built a good long-term relationship with luxury hotels worldwide, so they can give their VIP customers the maximum possible discount on stylish hotel accommodations. So before you book directly online or through the hotel, be sure to check with your preferred travel agent first.
Book a complimentary chauffeur car service.
A number of airlines offer complimentary chauffeur car service for first class flights or business class flights. For instance, you can get free limousine transfers from Etihad, Emirates, Qantas, and Virgin Atlantic in certain cities worldwide. You will need to check for this feature and book the transfers in advance. Simply provide your pick up point and destination for a seamless and stress-free journey from the moment you step out of your home or office and upon your return. Your dedicated travel assistant or agent can also easily arrange this for you.
Maximize your time in the lounge by arriving early for your flight.
Experienced business class travelers arrive at the airport over an hour earlier than their flights for a good reason. The majority of airlines have exclusive lounges equipped with fantastic facilities, where holders of business class and first class tickets can unwind, sample phenomenal food and drinks, catch up on work (e.g. making short business phone calls), or get a massage before their flight. Seasoned business class travelers know and live by one of the maxims of a stress-free long flight: rest well before you fly.
Take advantage of the free stuff you can get on board business class flights.
Free airplane food and beverages are a given even on short business class flights. But there are more in-flight freebies you can get if you know what to ask. Besides champagne and snacks, some airlines also offer free live TV channels, so you can catch up on the shows you do not want to miss. Japan Airlines passengers can request ear plugs, slippers, eye masks, and toothbrushes free of charge, which is perfect if you happen to forget these travel essentials.
Know which business class flights have the best seats for a peaceful slumber on board.
Advances in air travel technology mean improved passenger comfort, more luxurious in-flight amenities, and most importantly, a spacious seat that you can turn into a fully flat bed. If you experience flying on the world’s best business class, Qatar Airways A380, you will never think of flying coach again. When you are traveling through time zones, booking the finest business class seat is the best way to beat jet lag and arrive at your destination in your best mood. It’s really worth the investment, especially if you are attending an all-important business meeting.
Master the art of using your travel time productively.
Most business class travelers prefer reading, listening to music, and watching movies instead of sleeping during a long flight. Seasoned corporate travelers like to stay productive during a long-haul business class flight by networking with prospects on board or brainstorming for their next big business ideas and projects. As any long-time business traveler can tell you, a business trip is still a work day. So while in transit, you might find it worthwhile to listen to educational podcasts, do some light reading, or work on pending writing projects that do not require an Internet connection.
Need to read and respond to email during a flight? Check if your flight has Wi-Fi coverage.
Though in-flight Wi-Fi can be patchy, slow, or expensive, you might need it if you are flying for more than 12 hours. Never miss a business opportunity, and stay connected by asking your flight guru to check if your flight has Wi-Fi and how much it will cost. Keep track of airlines with the best Wi-Fi connectivity (eg. Scoot, Virgin America, Delta), and stay in the know by reading our weekly travel news recaps.
Mixing business travel with pleasure has never been easier with the right mobile app.
Download GLP, an app featuring comprehensive guides to navigating famous cities around the world. Hours before you land, spend some time reading about your destination. As soon as you close a business deal, you are free to celebrate, eat, relax, and roam. Find the best city sights and restaurants while you avoid the tourist traps. Enjoy a new city like any leisure traveler would with this smart app.
Stay connected without the hefty international roaming charges.
A typical week-long business trip abroad can rack up roaming charges fast. Conde Nast Traveler reported that companies paid about $7.5 billion in Wi-Fi and roaming data in 2014. Cut your cellular service expenses by opting for Wi-Fi. Simply turn off your cellular data, and get internet access at secure Wi-Fi hotspots at your destination. Other options include renting or borrowing a cell phone that functions abroad or using carriers with affordable roaming rates.
It pays to do your homework before you fly to maximize the benefits of your business class flights. Try these tips, and let us know which ones you find most useful.
