For years it has been assumed that business class flights are only for individuals who have a lot of money – or for those who have their flights paid for by somebody else. However, there are a number of ways in which almost anyone can take advantage of the comfort and amenities that flying business class affords travelers and not have to pay exorbitant prices for the privilege.

The benefits of business class

The benefits of a business class flight are obvious. The traveler will enjoy more space and be able to take advantage of fully reclining seats while the quality of the meals, free drinks, and entertainment will all add to the enjoyment of the flight. When booking a business class flight it is a good idea to find out what is included in the cost of the ticket to ensure that the extras that are being offered will fit your requirements.

Plan carefully

One of the best ways to get a good deal on a business class flight is to plan your trip as far in advance as possible. If you book your flight at the last minute the chances of getting a deal are very slim. Some airlines will give a discount on a flight that is booked at least 21 days in advance. It may also be a good idea to take a business class flight that requires a Saturday night stay-over, as these are usually less expensive.

It is important to spend some time shopping around the various airline websites to find the best deals on business class flights. In some cases it will be considerably less expensive to book a business class flight with one of the smaller, less well-known airlines. Airlines such as American Airlines or Virgin are considered to be the best when it comes to business class amenities, but a smaller airline that flies a different route or offers slightly less in the way of services may be able to offer greater savings to travelers.

Use different ticket types

It is often possible to save money by opting for tickets that have more restrictions on them. This will combine the requirement to book a certain minimum period in advance with restrictions on changes to departure dates and times, and a no refund for cancellation policy. This type of restricted ticket can save as much as 25% or even more on some flights.

Consider an IT fare. IT stands for ‘inclusive tour’ and means that accommodations must be booked along with the flight. In some cases booking this type of combined fare can even work out to be cheaper than simply booking the flight by itself. It is not always necessary to book accommodations for every night you will be away from home, but it is a good idea to check the terms and conditions before booking.

Travel agents

It is also possible to find some excellent deals on business class flights by using a travel agent; simple hotel booking is not all that travel agencies offer. There may be some deals available through a travel agent that cannot be found elsewhere. Using a travel agent will also take most of the headache out of looking for a cheaper flight, leaving the traveler free to simply enjoy their trip.