If you want to ensure that your business travel is as comfortable and convenient as possible, you have more control than simply buying a business class ticket. There are tips and tricks that can elevate your experience and ensure you get the most out of business class; a kind of holiday from stress and work in general. Take a micro-break – fly business class at its best.
Top tips for flying business class
Making the most of your trip starts well before you step out the front door. Your travel expert is key, of course, but there are a lot of things that come down to personal preference and expectations, so make sure as many of these as possible are covered before you go.
Choose the best seat for you
Many airlines now offer fully lie-flat seats on long haul flights, especially on newer aircraft. If you plan to sleep on your flight, or for any flight lasting more than a couple of hours, a fully lie-flat seat is one of the best perks you’ll get.
Once you stretch out flat, close your eyes and let out that breath you’ve been subconsciously holding in, you’ll silently thank yourself for securing that extra space and comfort.
Be well-rested
If you want to make the most of the trip as a micro-break, it’s best to be well-rested prior to the trip. It may sound odd, especially coming right after advising you to get a seat you can sleep in, but it is a key factor in enjoying the journey.
There will be walking, security, and the usual airport crowds, but there will also be great food, movies and entertainment, hot and cold beverages, and stunning, panoramic views from your window – breeze through the chores and truly appreciate the perks by being rested and ready.
Check in online
It’s simple. It’s quick. It will save you time and hassle at the airport.
If that doesn’t sell us all on it, nothing will.
Show up early and use the lounge
Even though you’re already checked in, show up about three hours before your flight. It may seem like a lot, but it has strong advantages.
Being there early will remove any stress about missing flights or getting caught in long queues. A little delay won’t be the usual soup of panic; you will pass by it like a pebble in the road, because you’ll know you have plenty of time.
Being there early also means you can take advantage of complimentary beverages, snacks, entertainment and even spa treatments in some lounges. But don’t eat too much. Save room for the meal on the plane. Many services include a white tablecloth meal and a choice of several high-quality desserts.
Dress on purpose
Chic, or comfortable? You’re not compelled to do either one, so why not make that choice yourself and own it?
It used to be that business travel meant business attire, full stop. It might be that you still want to wear the customary business uniform in case you make contacts on the flight, or need to represent your company in that way – but you don’t have to.
Many passengers now go for comfort rather than formal presentation. We’re not saying you should wear pyjamas and fuzzy slippers, but if you want to wear jeans or a light-weight outfit, nobody will bat an eye.
Decide what the best clothing is for your own experience, and go with that.
Use the fast-track security and boarding gates
The higher price you paid for your ticket includes perks at the airport, as well as on the plane, so take advantage of priority security lines, baggage checks, and boarding gates and time. The time you save can instead be spent on more pleasurable pursuits in the lounge.
Business during the flight
Once on board, it’s time to transition from anticipation to the main experience.
Settle in
Stow your items. Prep your book or tablet for later, plug in your phone – whatever it is you want waiting, charging, or sitting safely in its own special spot, now is the time to set it up.
By settling in first, you will clearly mark the beginning of your flight in your mind, and can transition from the movement and checklists of preparation. You’re on the plane now. You made it.
Breathe.
Rest
If you’re on a long enough flight to sleep, you’ll probably want to do so early on in the flight. That ensures you have the time to get the rest you need. Even on a shorter flight though, or if you show up well-rested, taking a moment to rest prior to take off is a great way to start a flight.
Use the entertainment system
Your flight will have a premium entertainment system offering the latest movies, some classics, popular television, games and information. Check out what’s there. Decide on a movie to watch over dinner. Play a trivia game against fellow passengers.
Whatever your style of enjoyment is, the entertainment system will help you pass the time with a smile on your face.
Dine with mindfulness
Choose a hot meal. It’s simple, but really makes a difference to the way you feel and the way you perceive the flight. It also helps to take a moment to experience the whole thing. Look at it. Smell it. Take your time.
The term ‘airport food’ will take on a whole new, and delicious, meaning.
Rock the layover
Secure access to the business lounge for long layovers, and take a long shower. Set your phone alarm so you aren’t distracted by worrying about how long you’re taking. Give yourself ample time between the alarm and your next flight leg, and in the meantime you can forget about your worries and relax.
Add on a chauffeur service
A great way to do this is to take a luxury ride once you’re back on the ground. This should be arranged at least a couple of days before you fly. To have a car waiting, temperature-controlled, spotless and deeply comfortable, is a great way to punctuate the end of your journey – and to show up for that first meeting in rested, blissful style.
Need help organising your business travel? Get in touch with our travel experts
