Is Upgrading to Business Class Worth It? Here’s How to Decide

Travel can be exciting, but getting to your destination isn’t always fun, especially if you’re flying. Dealing with busy airports, long layovers, and cramped plane seats is not ideal. 

You may wonder if upgrading your airfare to business class is worthwhile for some trips. Not having to sit in economy could improve your entire travel experience. Still deciding whether to spring for a seat upgrade? Here are some considerations to help you decide whether a business-class flight upgrade is worth the money.

Consider the route, departure and arrival times, and flight length 

Before spending money on an airfare upgrade, you should review the flight’s details. 

I’ll likely never upgrade my ticket for a flight that is four hours or less. Why? I can deal with some slight discomfort for a few hours if it will save me hundreds or thousands of dollars. 

But if I’m taking a long-haul flight overnight and will arrive early the next morning, I may consider an upgrade so I can arrive at my destination more rested and relaxed. 

Consider these factors when determining whether you should spend more money on an upgrade. In some situations, it may be worthwhile. But you don’t want to spend a lot of money on an upgrade only to regret it because it didn’t improve your trip experience much. 

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Consider the amenities provided and your travel preferences

Not all seat or ticket upgrades are created equal. You may get fewer perks when upgrading with one airline over another. Depending on what in-flight and airport amenities you value, it may be worthwhile to upgrade your existing ticket. 

If you’re upgrading to business or first class, the amenities may be more plentiful. You might decide to upgrade to get a lie-flat seat so you can rest and be more comfortable. There may be better entertainment and food options. You might qualify for free airport lounge access before your flight. 

Before swiping your credit card, be sure to research what is included with an upgrade. This way, you can decide if you’ll get value from and truly appreciate the upgrade opportunity. 

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Do the math to see if the added cost makes sense 

Not all upgrades are a good deal. But if you’re considering investing in a better seat for an upcoming flight, do the math to see if it makes sense. Ask yourself if the perks match the additional cost. If it’s an affordable upgrade, it may be worthwhile. 

Most importantly, always keep your finances in mind. The last thing you want to do is rack up expensive credit card debt because you charged your card for a flight upgrade that was beyond your financial means. Only spend what you can afford. 

Here’s how to upgrade your flight

Here are a few ways to upgrade to business class: 

Pay with cash through in-app upgrade offers: Many airlines have in-app upgrade offers. If you like an offer and want to upgrade your ticket, you can accept an offer and pay with a credit card. I’ve done this several times before when the price felt fair.  

Use miles: You may be able to upgrade your ticket using miles. Before doing this, check to see if it’s a good use of your miles or if saving them for another redemption is a better choice. 

Bid on an upgrade: Some airlines allow you to bid on an upgrade. You decide how much you’d be willing to pay. The airline will upgrade your ticket before takeoff if your offer is accepted. 

No matter what — before spending money or miles on an upgrade, carefully consider whether it’s a good choice for you. If an upgrade will increase comfort, you value the perks provided, and is a good price, it may be worthwhile.