How to Upgrade Your Flight to Business Class Without Going Broke

Traveling is exciting. But if you have to fly to your destination, it's not always the most comfortable experience -- especially if it's a long flight. One way to improve your experience is by upgrading to a business class seat. Paying for a business class ticket with cash can be expensive, but there are strategies to get the flight upgrade you want without draining your bank account. Here's how to upgrade your flight to business class without going broke.

1. Bid on a seat upgrade

Some airlines allow customers to bid on a seat upgrade. Once a customer purchases a ticket, they may be asked how much they'd be willing to pay for a seat upgrade. If a business class seat is available and their bid is approved by the airline, their credit card is charged for the upgrade amount, and they receive a new boarding pass and upgraded seat assignment.

This can make for a cheaper way to fly in business class. It's worth mentioning that most major U.S. airlines don't offer this service. But if you're flying with an international carrier, you may be able to bid your way to an affordable business class upgrade. For more details on the specifics, here's how I bid on a business class upgrade for cheap.

2. Use your credit card rewards

With the use of airline credit cards and travel credit cards, you can fly in business class without the high price tag. You can use your points and miles to book a business class flight, or use your rewards to book an upgrade after buying your airline ticket. Plus, if you're using your credit card to pay for a premium flight ticket with cash, you can earn rewards. Here are two credit card options to explore if you want to level up your air travel experience.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a good fit for frequent travelers who want premium benefits. This travel rewards credit card has a $550 annual fee, but it offers a yearly $300 travel credit. When you use your card to make eligible travel purchases, you'll earn up to $300 back as a statement credit. This statement credit could make a business class upgrade cheaper.

Act now: Apply for the Chase Sapphire Reserve®.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees) is another option. This travel card offers premium perks and charges a $395 annual fee and a 19.99% - 29.99% (Variable) APR. When booking airfare through the Capital One Travel portal, you'll earn 5 miles per $1, so you can boost your rewards when booking a business class flight. This card also offers a $300 annual travel credit for travel purchases booked through the Capital One Travel portal, which could make getting a flight upgrade cheaper.

Act now: Apply for the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card.

3. Take advantage of business class flight deals

Another way to upgrade your flight experience is by purchasing business class flight deals. Similar to economy class tickets, you can sometimes score a great deal on a business class flight.

Subscribe to airline email newsletters and follow your favorite carriers on social media to learn about upcoming premium class airfare sales. You can also sign up for premium class flight deal alerts by subscribing to flight deal services.

4. Get upgraded by earning elite status

Another way to upgrade your flight to business class without going broke is by getting an upgrade as an elite status member. If you're loyal to one airline and travel often, it can be easier to achieve elite status. Higher-tier members may be eligible for seat upgrades if unsold seats are available.

Keep in mind that it can be more challenging to get an upgrade if you travel on busy days or typically travel to popular destinations, as these flights tend to be full.

Find ways to save money on travel costs

If you want to travel the world without ignoring your budget, look for ways to save money on travel expenses. If you're strategic, you may be able to score a business class flight at a fraction of the cost and earn valuable travel rewards in the process. Check out our list of the best travel rewards credit cards to learn more about the value of credit card rewards.