How to get a business class experience on an economy ticket

THINK visiting the airport on an economy ticket equals a grin and bear it experience? Here are five ways to get a business class experience without the sky-high cost.

Flying doesn't have to mean a stiff neck and jet lag. Picture: Th...

NOT all flying experiences are created equal. While some of us see a Sky Bed and unlimited mini-bar in our future, others consider getting the window seat a win.

But it doesn't have to be that way. Everyone can have an A-class travel experience with these easy ways to upgrade without the additional cost.

Spa-time

You've checked your baggage, cleared customs and purchased your inflight magazines. What to do now? If you're heading to an international destination then you may want to think about finding a place to relax. No, we're not talking about the communal carpet at your gate; we're talking an in-airport day spa. A pre-flight massage might feel like a splurge but that 14-hour flight will much more comfortable if your body is relaxed and your mind is in a good place.

Work up a sweat

If you've rushed from work or home to the airport, worked your way through security, then sat on a flight for hours, your body is probably full of anxiety and tension. So make the most of your stop-over by hitting the gym for a yoga session. Many airports and in-terminal hotels now offer 24-hour fitness centre access for those with a long flight ahead or those in the middle of a longer than usual layover. With onsite showers, a day-pass might be the easiest way to get hotel style amenities without the stay.

Flying doesn't have to mean a stiff neck and jet lag. Picture: Thinkstock

Getting into the lounge

While the paid lounge experience is a standard in most airports around the world, Australian lounges are pretty locked-up. Maybe you're lucky enough to be travelling with a frequent flyer who can shuffle you in as a guest, but if not all is not lost. If you have a credit card, consider swapping over to a frequent flyer specific card. A Westpac Earth Black card or a Woolworths Everyday Rewards card will issue complimentary passes to members after a spend on eligible purchases. It's also a neat way to kill two birds with one stone - get a credit card, automatically become a frequent flyer without the access fees. If you travel on Qantas flights you can upgrade to Lounge access using points generated on everyday purchases.

Coupons galore

Social media is a great way to find out about instore promotions and events happening in your departure or destination airport. Most promotions for in-airport restaurants have conditions lasting a month so it makes sense to start checking prior to your trip. Chances are the promos will go live or link out from the airport Facebook or Twitter accounts.

Arrive in style

Qantas Chauffeur Drive is a service provided to those passengers travelling on a Business Class or First Class ticket. A luxury private car arrives at your residence and whisks you away to your airport destination. Nice, right? Well now even economy tickets can get the private car experience with the introduction of US favourite Uber into Sydney and Melbourne. Uber allows passengers to book a car for their journey from the comfort of their couches. Your driver picks up your journey and lets you know when they are out the front. The whole process is cashless and convenient; simply charge the trip to your account-linked credit card at your destination. For a true Business Class experience, try a Luxury Black Car.

Do you have any tips to add? Leave them in the comments below.