When Is Upgrading to Business Class Worth It?

Since business-class flights can be costly, it's not financially possible for most travelers to fly business class every vacation. However, occasionally splurging on business-class tickets may be an option to consider. 

Spending extra money for a more enjoyable or comfortable fight experience could be worth it. 

Should you upgrade your ticket for an upcoming flight? Here are some situations where paying a higher ticket price may make sense -- as long as the price tag fits your budget. 

Improved comfort on long-haul trips 

If you have a two-hour flight taking you a few states away, you'll likely want to save your money and avoid upgrading your ticket. Why? Premium seats on aircraft used for short-haul routes don't differ much from those in the economy-class cabin. You may get a more comfortable seat and slightly more legroom, but the cost to upgrade likely isn't worth the perks provided. 

But if you're taking a long-haul overnight flight to another country, consider upgrading your ticket. Many planes used for these routes have more comfortable business-class seats than those in economy class. The premium seats are more spread out, which can give you more privacy, and you may get a lie-flat seat, so you can rest during your journey. 

Springing for a business-class ticket may be worth it for travelers who value increased comfort and want to sleep during a long or overnight flight. 

You can benefit from priority privileges and increased baggage allowance 

Most airlines extend priority privileges and other benefits like a higher checked baggage allowance to travelers flying on business-class tickets. Priority check-in and security could make your airport experience less stressful. Priority boarding allows additional time to get situated before the plane takes off. These perks can be a stress reducer for some travelers.

Many business-class tickets allow flyers to bring additional checked bags for free. If you're going on a trip that requires you to pack more, this may be a benefit worth the ticket upgrade. Many airlines keep increasing their checked bag fees, and these extra costs apply to each one-way flight, so if you're not part of team carry-on only, this is a valuable perk. 

Before upgrading to a business-class ticket, consider the total cost and whether benefits like this are valuable. Every traveler has different needs and expectations, so some perks may be worth the extra money to some -- but a waste of money to others. 

Make a trip extra special 

Another situation that may make upgrading to business class worth it is when you're planning a special trip. Whether you're celebrating an occasion, just underwent a significant life change, or are treating someone you love to an adventure of a lifetime, you may be looking for a way to make the trip more memorable. 

In this case, spending more on business-class tickets may be a good idea. You and anyone accompanying you will be shown extra attention, and the additional perks included with your ticket will make the entire travel experience more enjoyable. 

Just make sure you review your finances before spending more on premium tickets. It's never a good idea to go into credit card debt by paying for travel purchases you can't afford. You can save up for business-class tickets well before your trip starts. Keeping your vacation fund in a high-yield savings account will allow you to earn interest. 

Consider your travel style and budget

Only you can decide if the additional cost of premium airfare is worth it. Before you rush to spend more on a business-class ticket, consider your travel style and financial situation.

If you can afford a more expensive ticket and will benefit from the experience, go for it. But there are times when the upgrade cost is likely not worth it.

When booking your tickets, consider using a travel rewards credit card. You can earn rewards when you swipe your card. Many travelers use these credit cards to earn rewards and redeem them for flights and hotels to make future trips more affordable. Want to add a travel credit card to your wallet? Check out our list of the best travel credit cards to learn more.