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Quick Points: How first class can save you money

Sept. 29, 2023
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3 min read
American Airlines first class CRJ900
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Sometimes, luxury travel — like flying domestic first class — can be more affordable than you think.

In fact, there are times when flying domestic first class can end up being cheaper overall than flying economy.

Here are some things to consider when booking your next domestic flight.

Price differences per cabin

United Airlines planes parked at SFO
KYLE OLSEN/THE POINTS GUY

The first thing to consider is the actual base price difference between economy and domestic first-class tickets. For example, this flight from Washington, D.C.'s Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) costs $99 in economy and $149 in first class. The $50 price difference between economy and first class can be zeroed if you purchase extras for the flight.

IAD to EWR United
UNITED.COM

Related: An easy weekday upgrade: A review of United Business on the A320 from Puerto Vallarta to Denver

Cost of extras

When comparing the costs of domestic economy and first-class tickets, it's important to consider the additional expenses associated with economy travel, such as baggage fees.

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For instance, on a flight from IAD to EWR, you would typically pay at least $70 to check two bags. However, when flying first class, two checked bags are included.

United bag charges economy class
United bag charges business or first class
1 of 2
UNITED.COM
0
1

The difference becomes even more significant if you check bags that weigh between 51 and 70 pounds. In standard economy, you'd need to pay $280 ($135 for the first and $145 for the second) to check two overweight bags at the airport. In first class, you can check two bags that weigh up to 70 pounds each for free.

If you have United MileagePlus Premier status or an eligible United credit card, your checked luggage fees may be waived.

Related: United Airlines baggage fees and how to avoid paying them

Bottom line

Consider the possibility that booking a domestic first-class ticket might actually be more cost-effective than an economy ticket, especially when you take into account the added benefits of earning toward elite status. Take the time to explore first-class options, and weigh the potential savings and the experience of sitting at the front of the plane. Don't hesitate to invest a few minutes in researching first-class tickets, as it can be a rewarding choice both financially and in terms of comfort.

Featured image by KYLE OLSEN/THE POINTS GUY
Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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Why We Chose It

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  • Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
  • Solid welcome bonus

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  • Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
  • You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
  • Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
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  • $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
  • $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
  • $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
  • Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Annual Fee is $325.
  • Terms Apply.