2 Times You Should -- and Shouldn't -- Upgrade to Business Class

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If the cost of business class was somewhat comparable to flying economy, a lot of us would upgrade frequently. But that's not the case.

A business-class ticket could, in some cases, cost thousands more than an economy fare. So if you're someone who doesn't want to whittle your savings account down to $0, it's important to choose your business-class upgrades strategically.

Here are a couple of times when it pays to spring for business class -- and when you should skip it.

Take the business-class upgrade

Here are two times when it makes sense to consider business class.

1. When being jet lagged could be a real issue

The last thing you want is for a trip you've saved for to get ruined by a persistent bout of jet lag. It's a big myth that you can sleep off jet lag in a day and recover fully. Depending on your body, you may be sluggish for the better part of a week, which could seriously affect your travel plans.

If you're traveling across time zones and are worried about jet lag, then it pays to upgrade to business class. This may be the case if you're taking a West Coast red-eye flight to the East Coast, or if you've traveling from the U.S. to Europe and need some shut-eye during your time in the air.

2. When it's a special occasion

Seeing your sister for your twice-a-year get-together is something to look forward to. But it's not necessarily a special-enough occasion to warrant a business class upgrade.

However, if you're taking a trip to Vegas for your 40th birthday or you're embarking on your honeymoon, you don't want the experience spoiled by cramped economy seats. It pays to upgrade to business class when it's a truly special occasion, and one you want to kick off on the right note.

Skip the upgrade

Here are two times when you're better off in economy.

1. When there's food and drink already included

One big benefit of flying business class is getting free food and drink -- and high-quality meals at that. But if you're taking a flight where everyone is entitled to a free meal and beverage service, then you're not getting quite the same value out of a business-class ticket.

It's common to get a meal on international flights, for example, regardless of the fare you book. And some airlines might also include a complimentary beverage of your choice -- even alcohol. So you may want to save your business-class upgrade when it's the only way to score free meals and drinks, such as a longer domestic flight.

2. When you have to pay the entire cost out of pocket

Many people use credit card rewards or air miles to upgrade to business class. This can make the cost far more manageable, since often, you only need to pay taxes and fees. But if you don't have points or miles to cash in, then you may want to stick with economy so you don't blow the bulk of your vacation budget on the flight alone.

That said, using the right credit card could make it easier to score free upgrades. Click here for a list of travel reward credit cards that could be your ticket to future business-class trips .

It's natural to prefer business class to economy, especially for a longer journey. But remember, the more you spend on a business-class ticket, the less money you have left over for other expenses, whether it's everyday bills or other aspects of a trip you're taking (like a nicer hotel room). You'll need to think about whether business class is really worth it before forking over the money or cashing in the credit card points or miles you have available.

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