Business class airfare is a major upgrade from economy, and it provides an elevated experience right from the start. Besides extra legroom, world-class cuisine and other amenities, you’ll also have priority check in and security screening, as well as first access to lounges.

If you’re a savvy traveler, it’s possible to find a great deal on business class tickets. But you have to be willing to put in some time and effort, and it’s a good idea to get your tickets as far in advance as possible.

Seats

Business class seats are a huge upgrade from economy and typically cost a lot more. But if you have airline miles or points that transfer to frequent-flier programs, you can use them to book these seats for nearly free.

If you’re trying to get an edge on the competition, consider using a tool like SeatGuru. This website allows you to search for flight numbers and routes by aircraft type, departure and arrival times and amenities.

Often, the best way to find a lie-flat business class seat is to search for flights on wide-body airplanes or those that fly premium coast-to-coast routes. You can also luck into these seats on domestic flights, especially if you’re traveling on a small plane with a narrower body. You may even have a chance to win an upgrade auction.

Baggage

Business class airfares offer a variety of baggage options, including carry-on and checked bags. These include luggage that can be placed under your seat or in the overhead storage compartments, as well as larger cabin bags that you can check into the hold.

Baggage allowances and charges vary between different airlines, so it’s important to read the airline’s website before you book your flight. You can also contact the carrier to verify their rules.

On journeys with connecting flights that use a single booking reference, your baggage allowance is generally determined by the airline that operates the longest flight in your itinerary.

If you are traveling with a child, you can bring one piece of hand luggage or carry-on, which must be under 23 kg. In addition, you can bring one fully collapsible pushchair or stroller, up to 115 cm in length.

Food

Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, you’ll love the food available in a business class airfare. These meals are typically more delicious than those in coach, and are prepared by renowned chefs.

Qatar’s business class service takes things a step further by offering you a full menu aboard your flight. This means you can order a meal whenever you want.

The airline’s business class food is also designed to be visually appealing. With a trained chef on board you can choose from a wide range of dishes including tournedos, orzo pasta and pork confit with olives and lemon, among others. You can even opt for a dessert created by the chefs themselves.

WiFi

Whether you’re traveling for business or for pleasure, staying connected is vital. Fortunately, more and more airlines are offering in-flight WiFi to keep you connected while you’re up in the air.

While some airlines’ Wi-Fi is not up to par with what you’d find at home, it’s still better than no internet at all. Inflight WiFi is available on many of the world’s largest and most popular airlines, including ANA, EVA Air, Etihad, Garuda Indonesia, and Philippine Airways.

However, the quality of in-flight WiFi can vary based on the airline and flight path. In some cases, it’s slow and unreliable. But in others, it’s more than enough to keep you entertained, connected and on top of work.

Comfort

Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, it’s important to be comfortable. That’s why many airlines offer a wide range of comfort features in their business class cabins, including seats that recline to fully flat beds, personal minibars and even a concierge service for business travellers.

Generally, if you’re looking for maximum comfort and you don’t mind spending some extra money, then a business class airfare is worth it. However, if you’re on a budget or if you prefer to save your travel cash for other trips, then flying economy is probably the better option. It’s also a good idea to check whether you can upgrade your flights after booking. This may depend on the initial fare you booked and your loyalty status with an airline.