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If you travel often, you might already have an idea of what business-class airfare offers. You get a much larger seat, and depending on the flight, it could be a lie-flat seat that turns into a bed. That alone is a huge upgrade. You'll also be treated to a better meal service, and your ticket could get you into an airport lounge.
While those are all appealing benefits, lots of people know about them. If you're debating whether a business class ticket is worth it, here are the overlooked perks that aren't mentioned as often.
1. A much larger checked baggage allowance
Traveling light is nice, but sometimes it's not an option. If you're going overseas for a couple of weeks, or if you're traveling with children, you may need all the space you can get.
Business-class airfare normally has a larger baggage allowance. For example, with many airlines, an economy seat on an international flight includes one free checked bag of up to 50 pounds. Any additional bags, or bags that exceed the weight limit, could cost you $100 or more. A business-class seat on those same airlines includes two free checked bags of up to 70 pounds.
Policies vary from airline to airline, so you should check the rules and fees before you fly. In most cases, you'll be able to bring more bags and heavier bags if you're flying business class.
2. A complimentary amenity kit
On long-haul flights, business-class passengers get an amenity kit. The contents depend on the airline, but these often include:
- A small toothbrush and toothpaste
- Moisturizing cream
- Lip balm
- Ear plugs
- A sleep mask
- Socks
At first, this might seem like an overrated perk that only a travel blogger would get excited about. You spend all that money, or points from a travel rewards card , on a business-class ticket. And in return, you get a tiny amenity kit.
After taking many business-class flights, I think amenity kits are an underrated perk. The last thing I want to do after an in-flight meal is dig around in my luggage for a toothbrush. And if I don't need to pack my own ear plugs and moisturizer when I travel, all the better. An amenity kit makes traveling easier for me, and that's something I value.
3. A better entertainment system
If it's a long flight, all passengers have a seatback entertainment system with movies and shows, and flight attendants hand out headphones. But there are a couple of notable differences for those flying in business class.
Seatback screens in business class are significantly bigger than they are in economy. It's still not exactly like watching a movie at home, but it's not bad. You'll also get more comfortable headphones.
4. Getting to deplane first
Deplaning can be a bit awkward and uncomfortable. You're waiting your turn, probably with hardly any space between you and your fellow passengers. And depending on where you're seated, it may be a long wait.
When you're seated in business class, it's a different story. Business-class passengers usually get to deplane first, unless the plane also has a first-class cabin. Either way, you can expect to exit the plane pretty quickly once the doors are open.
5. Priority checked baggage delivery
If you decide to take advantage of that larger baggage allowance, you'll probably get your checked luggage sooner than most passengers. Airlines put a priority tag on checked luggage for business-class passengers, which means it hits the baggage carousel first.
It may not seem like that big a deal, but it could help you get a taxi before a long line of people get there. And after a long flight, most travelers want to get out of the airport as soon as possible.
As you can see, there are plenty of reasons to fly business class. And if you know how to find travel deals, it's also not always as expensive as you might think. Being flexible about when you travel and setting up airfare deal alerts are both good ways to fly business class for less.
It also helps to have a credit card with travel rewards. When you're able to pay in travel points instead of cash, business class becomes a bargain.
We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team. Lyle Daly has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
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