You can get where you need to go in economy class, but for comfort — especially on longer flights — it pays to upgrade.
It’s not just about enjoying meals on real china or being able to lay flat to catch a few winks. The really great perks go beyond top-tier in-flight entertainment and goodies like cozy socks.
Flying in luxury also means being able to relax away from the hustle and bustle of the airpot before your flight, being able to work comfortably while en route if you need to, and then arriving at your destination well-rested and ready to explore.
Whether you’ve diligently saved those miles, work is footing the bill, or you’re going on a once and a lifetime trip, don’t book a luxury flight without reading my reviews first. I’ve spent a lot of time in the air, and these are the airlines to book if you want to fly in style.
Aegean Airlines Flight Reviews
A Review of Aegean Airlines Regional Business Class
Proper stemware, hot towels, and nicely printed menus describing the dishes that will be served are just a few of the reasons to fly Aegean business class. The dishes, even on short hop flights are delicious and feature wine pairings you’ll enjoy. Love what you just sipped? The flight attendants are extremely attentive, and you’ll find your glass is seldom empty for long.
American Airlines® Flight Reviews
Flying American Airlines Business Class Transpacific
Lovely food and even lovelier wine are two of the perks of flying in American Airlines’ business class. You’ll really feel that you’re being taken care of, whether you’re chatting with your flight attendant or looking at the wine menu created by Ken Chase — the airline’s classically trained winemaker and viticulturist. If you haven’t flown with American in some time, you’ll notice a lot has changed.
Alaska Airlines® Flight Reviews
Flying Alaska Airlines from San Diego to Hawaii
Alaska Airlines offers direct flights to three Hawaiian islands from San Diego, and you can upgrade to first class for a surprisingly small fee. Between the orchids tucked into the amazingly friendly flight attendants’ hair to the passion fruit mimosas served on board, there is a festive spirit on these flights that makes getting to the islands almost as fun as actually being there.
British Airways® Club Flight Reviews
Flying British Airways Club Europe Regional Business Class
Service on British Airways is predictably friendly and efficient. They do a good job of making you feel pampered — even on short flights. From the hot towels that are handed around after take-off to the delicious small meals and multiple rounds of drinks to the afternoon tea complete with warm scones, you’ll almost wish your flight was a bit longer. Flying Club Europe gives you added benefits like priority check-in, security clearance, and boarding — all of which are worth upgrading for.
Flying British Airways Club World from San Diego to London Heathrow
With seats that recline fully flat, cozy blankets and pillows, lovely meals, and grab-and-go snacks (including champagne) in the galley, there’s a lot to love on this flight. Traveling with a child or spouse? The intimate middle seats are excellent for couples and families. Prior to boarding, you can relax in the Airspace Lounge, where you’ll be treated to a special menu that includes fantastic cheese and charcuterie plates.
Cathay Pacific® Flight Reviews
Flying Business Class on Cathay Pacific with Kids
This was our primary airline when we lived in Hong Kong, and I still think they’re one of the best for family travel. Flying on Cathay Pacific with kids is a joy. The in-flight entertainment system has video games and a huge list of movies on demand. Little kids receive their own special amenities kit. And parents can relax with a top-notch glass of wine, knowing that the entire family will be well taken care of.
What It’s Like to Fly First Class on Cathay Pacific
Flying first class on Cathay Pacific is a real treat, from the champagne bar you can enjoy prior to takeoff to the spaciousness of the pods. You’ll be served Krug champagne and a lovely amuse bouche at the gate. The food and refreshments on board are high-end restaurant quality, and even the Aesop amenity kit is a bit more luxurious than you’d expect and comes with soft organic pajamas that you’ll wear long after you return home.
Japan Airlines® Flight Reviews
Experience the Japan Airlines Dreamliner in Executive Class
The first thing you’ll notice is how bright and airy first class feels. That’s thanks to the larger windows. The second thing you’ll notice is the massager in each executive class seat. They can truly make long-haul flights a lot more comfortable. Better still, all the food you’ll enjoy will be absolutely beautiful, and as lovely to eat as it is to look at. This is one of the best ways to fly to Tokyo.
Singapore Airlines® Flight Reviews
Flying Singapore Airlines First Class Suites
From the amazing buffet in the pre-flight lounge for elite travelers to the mind-blowing suites, which are as close as you can get to a hotel room in the sky, there is nothing like traveling in Singapore Airlines first class suites. This should be on any luxury traveler’s bucket list, and not just for the pre-departure Dom Perignon. The leather seats fold into a double bed, meals are served on Wedgewood china, and the service is truly impeccable.
Virgin America® Flight Reviews
Flying Virgin America from San Diego to San Francisco
Whether you’re in the first class cabin or sitting in economy, flying Virgin America feels luxurious. That’s in part to the cool white lacquer decor and the big TV screens at every seat. With Japan Airlines the cool vibe blends with plenty of amazing in-flight entertainment options, which is why I definitely recommend checking out this airline for quick regional flights.
United Airlines® Flight Reviews
Flying United Airlines from San Diego to Denver
Sometimes minimizing travel time is the most luxurious thing you can do. This airline is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to hit the slopes for a quick couple of days before heading home. You can fly direct from San Diego into Denver with no tedious connections on a Friday morning thanks to United’s schedule of flights. You can be home by Sunday evening after spending that morning on the slopes.
Need help to get to your destination with little ones in tow? Don’t worry. Here are my tried and true tips for flying with kids.
