Business class tickets can be significantly more expensive than economy class tickets, so the question ‘Is it worth it?’ is a very fair one to ask. What it ultimately comes down to, is what do you value, and what would make your experience good enough to justify the cost?
We’ve broken it down into the key areas that flying business class – or in this example, United Polaris – makes a difference.
Food
When flying business, having open access to lounge buffets and a la carte menus, plus premium dining options – for both main meals and snacking on flights, sets it far apart from economy class. A specific stand out for United Polaris is their famous in-air ice-cream sundae cart, where you can enjoy customised sundaes made to your liking at your seat. Let’s not forget the beverage offering, with premium brands such as Laurent-Perrier.
There’s this weird feeling that you’re getting things for ‘free’ when taking advantage of the food selection when flying Polaris. Of course, you’ve technically already paid for it, but the novelty and feeling of being spoilt is still one that feels pretty nice – and takes ‘all you can eat’ to completely new heights.
Relaxing in lounges
Avoid fighting for a charging station, queuing for overpriced fast food, and trying to find the quietest corner in a bustling, transient space. The United Polaris lounges have various nooks and seating options, for both the business and leisure traveller.
The real stand out however, is access to shower suites. If you are after a refresh during your stopover, take advantage of these comfortable spaces with spacious wash areas, fluffy towels, a friendly attendant and luxury amenities available on request.
Getting a good sleep
What is the one thing that makes arriving at your destination way more manageable? Sleep. Seriously. 83% of international travellers say catching up on sleep is important on a flight and 61% book flights with sleep in mind. If that’s you, then it’s worth noting that the Polaris class boasts completely lie-flat beds, with a Saks Fifth Avenue mattress topper and comfy PJs on request. Amenity kits by Therabody are also provided, as well as access to devices in select lounges – such as a Theragun and RecoveryAir Jetboots, plus in-air wellness videos on the entertainment screens.
If you don’t need to lie down to grab a kip and are lucky enough that you can fall asleep anywhere, then you may not need to splurge on the upgrade. A smaller investment into the additional legroom of EconomyPlus could be worth it to make your flight more comfortable.
Efficiency
Queues. Gross. Who actually enjoys waiting in line? The answer is nobody, and depending what time you’re flying, and how many flights and/or delays are impacting traffic at the airport, you could be in for a toe-tapping time. That’s why hopping in the fast lane – literally, can save you a tonne. From bag drop through to security screening, even boarding your plane, your Polaris ticket grants you preferential position.
Peace of mind
One of the most noticeable differences when flying business class, is that if there are any hiccups – which are part and parcel of flying internationally, and frequently outside the airline’s control – you are likely to get preferential treatment when it comes to re-booking on the next flight, and often able to bypass queues of angry flyers.
Plus, let’s not forget the ability to wait out any delays in the aforementioned lounges. Interruptions, cancellations and delays are some of the worst parts of flying, so when you can increase comfort and mitigate frustration, what is that really worth to you? For me, it’s everything!
So, what’s the verdict. Do these factors make enough of a difference that flying Polaris class will improve your experience? It sure did for us.
*Disclaimer; we flew United Polaris for free, however, this is our honest and factual review of what we experienced.*
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