Shh...8 Little-Known Perks of Flying Business Class

Flying in business class is generally a far more comfortable experience than flying in the main cabin. Those big seats in the front of the airplane can be far more comfortable and can be much more convenient when it comes to getting work done or sleeping. But one thing many travelers don't realize is that flying in business class comes with more than just a nice and roomy seat.

While the benefits of flying in business class vary from airline to airline, and may depend on the route you're flying, here are just some of the perks you may experience in addition to a larger, more comfortable seat in the front of the plane.

1. Priority check-in

Airlines typically allow business class travelers to use their priority check-in lanes that are also available to travelers with elite status with the airline. This can save you time if you need to check bags, and at some airports you may even be able to use a priority security line that can be significantly shorter than the general line.

2. Priority baggage handling

Many airlines will put a "priority" tag on your checked baggage when you have a business class ticket, which means that it will typically arrive at baggage claim in the first batch of luggage. One of the major downsides of checking a bag is the additional time it takes to claim it, and this can certainly help mitigate that inconvenience.

3. Free checked bags

Business class travelers get free checked bags on most airlines. Some airlines even allow for multiple free checked bags, or bags that exceed the typical 50-pound weight limit. For example, United Airlines allows bags up to 70 pounds each for United Business travelers, compared with a 50-pound maximum for travelers in the main cabin.

Some travel credit cards have a free checked bags perk, and in some cases, it can even be combined for extra free bags in business class.

4. Lie-flat seats

I already mentioned the larger and comfortable seats toward the front of the plane, but lie-flat seats are available on many flights in business class (even domestic) that can take the experience to another level. Some airlines, like American, will specifically note that lie-flat seats are available when viewing flight search results.

5. First to board

Business class travelers are typically among the first to board the aircraft, giving you more time to settle in, put your bags in the overhead bins, and have a pre-takeoff beverage. You might not be the first to board -- for example, airlines generally let passengers who need extra time board first, and if your aircraft has both first and business class, first class passengers may board before business class.

6. Free drinks and better food

Beverages (including alcoholic beverages) are free in business class cabins, and you'll typically find that food options are better. Even if a full meal is served in the main cabin, business class passengers typically receive higher-end food options, as well as more frequent snack offerings.

7. More overhead space

Aircrafts generally have dedicated overhead bin space for business class passengers, and because there are fewer seats for the amount of space occupied compared with the main cabin, it is typically easy to find a place for your bag. Anyone who has flown in the main cabin and has been included in a later boarding group knows overhead bin space is far from guaranteed.

8. Airport lounge access

Business class travelers often get access to airport lounges prior to departure, where there is usually free food and beverages, as well as quiet spaces to work or relax. This is far more common when flying internationally or on longer transcontinental flights but can be an excellent perk if it's available.

The bottom line

This isn't meant to be an exhaustive list, and there are some airlines that have unique perks for business class travelers, especially on long-haul flights. But the key takeaway is that flying in business class is often about more than just having more legroom. There is a surprising number of perks that commonly come with it.