5 expert tips for booking business class air tickets

Ask any frequent business traveller, and they’ll tell you that comfort and efficiency are key to staying productive and focused on business trips. Booking business-class tickets can significantly enhance your travel experience and help you arrive at your destination feeling rested, relaxed, and ready to meet your business objectives.

By following these tips, you can effectively navigate the process of booking business-class tickets and enhance your overall travel experience.

1. Understand the benefits of booking business-class tickets

Business class offers several advantages over economy seating. Common features include:

• Spacious seating: Business-class seats are wider and offer more legroom than economy-class seats. On international or long-haul flights, business-class seats may convert into lie-flat beds.
• Quality meals: Dining options are often of better quality in business class. You may be able to choose from a set menu or a selection of wines and other alcoholic beverages.
• Priority services: Booking business-class tickets often includes priority check-in, security screening, and boarding. Lounge access may also be included.
• Better connectivity: Robust Wi-Fi connectivity and in-seat power outlets cater to passengers who need to stay productive during journeys.

Familiarise yourself with these benefits to assess their value against the ticket cost.

2. Research airlines, routes, and aircraft

Different airlines offer varying levels of service in business class. Research airlines to find which ones provide the amenities that best suit your needs.

Keep in mind that not all airlines and routes offer business class. Availability varies depending on the airline and the specific route, and many regional and low-cost carriers do not provide business-class options at all.

Popular routes, especially those between major business hubs, tend to have higher demand, which drives up prices. If you live in or are flying to a major hub, consider looking into alternative airports. Sometimes, flying from or to a nearby city can be more economical, even in business class.

Finally, if a factor like Wi-Fi connectivity or having a power outlet is important, check the specific aircraft to make sure the feature is available. Older planes may not have been retrofitted with Wi-Fi capabilities or outlets at each seat.

3. Leverage your loyalty

Around 78% of frequent business travellers — those who take three or more trips per year — are members of travel loyalty programmes. Joining frequent flyer programmes can provide access to exclusive deals, upgrades, and rewards.

Accumulating points or miles through these programmes can reduce the cost of business-class tickets or provide opportunities for complimentary upgrades. If you are not already a member of an airline loyalty programme, do your research before committing to a specific airline. Even if you travel infrequently, you could find a programme that offers complimentary Wi-Fi or baggage allowance as membership perks.

Certain credit cards also offer travel perks, including access to airport lounges or discounts on business-class tickets. Review your credit card benefits to see if you can use them for added value.

4. Travel on off-peak days

Travelling on off-peak days can lead to significant savings when booking business-class tickets. According to Navan data, 46% of business travel trips depart on a Monday or Tuesday, which can drive up flight prices on those days.

Midweek flights, particularly on Wednesdays and Thursdays, tend to be less expensive and offer more availability. This increases your chances of finding a more affordable business-class seat or securing an upgrade.

Flying during these quieter periods can also result in a more relaxed travel experience since the airport will be less crowded. Being flexible with your travel dates and opting for off-peak days can save money and enhance your overall travel experience, with fewer delays and less congestion.

5. Book through corporate travel management services

If your company uses a corporate travel management service like Navan, they might have access to exclusive business-class discounts unavailable to the general public.

Benefits of booking on Navan include:

• Exclusive deals: With extensive inventory sourced from multiple sources, including travel industry game-changer New Distribution Capability, travellers get a wide range of options at great prices.
• Easy travel planning: Book an entire trip — airfare, hotel, and car — in minutes and have your entire itinerary in one place.
• 24/7 support: Should travel plans change, Navan’s support team is available 24/7 to get you back on track.

Ready to upgrade your business travel experience? Request a demo now.