3 Ways I've Flown Business Class Without Paying Full Price

As a frequent traveler, I appreciate any chance I can get to be more comfortable and have less stress when flying. But when flying in economy, there are minimal extra comforts, and it's not always an enjoyable experience. 

Since I'm working hard to reach my personal finance goals, I don't typically have the budget to buy a business-class ticket at the standard price. Luckily, I've been able to fly in business class several times without overspending beyond my means. I'll share a few ways I've flown business class without paying full price for the experience. 

1. Paying for a seat upgrade

You can fly in business class even if you initially purchase an economy-class seat. Many airlines allow customers who have already purchased seats to upgrade to a higher class for a fee. You can usually find seat upgrade offers in the airline's mobile app or by logging into your online account through the airline's website. I've seen some very reasonable upgrade prices listed. 

If you're considering upgrading a ticket you've already purchased, check upgrade prices often before your trip. Upgrade prices can fluctuate, so the prices you see one day may change and become even more affordable later. If the price is right, I will use this strategy again. 

2. Booking a flight deal 

Another way I've flown in business class for an affordable price is by booking a flight deal. You can save money on premium class airfare by booking discounted tickets. I pay for a flight deals service and am sent deal alerts by email. This subscription is worth the cost since I travel several times a year. 

Several companies offer services like this, and multiple subscription plans are available depending on your travel preferences. I pay for a higher-tier subscription, which allows me to receive alerts for economy class, first class, business class, and award flight deals. 

3. Bidding on a seat upgrade 

Some airlines allow fliers to bid on a chance at a seat upgrade. After you pay for your initial ticket, the airline may contact you to ask if you want to bid on an upgrade. 

The airline will likely require you to meet a minimum bid amount. Otherwise, you decide how much you'd be willing to pay to upgrade your seat. Other travelers can also bid on an upgrade. If your bid is accepted, the airline will upgrade your seat, and your credit card will be charged. If not, you'll still have the initial ticket you purchased and won't be charged extra. 

I've used this strategy multiple times to save money on a business-class ticket. So far, this opportunity has only presented itself when flying on an international carrier. But if you ever have the chance to submit a bid for a seat upgrade for cheap, consider doing so. 

Look for ways to save on travel

Travel costs are higher than they were a few years ago. But that doesn't mean there aren't ways to save money on travel expenses like flights and hotel stays. If you dream of flying in business class but are working hard to keep more money in your checking account, look for alternative ways to score a cheaper business-class ticket, like the above mentioned suggestions. 

When paying for travel expenses like flights, consider using a travel rewards credit card. You can earn rewards and access valuable credit card perks that improve your travels. Check out our list of the best travel credit cards to learn more.