Economy vs. First Class: First Class Flights Offer First Class Experience

Let's just admit, nobody likes flying for long periods of time. You are cramped up in a tiny space, there's no room to stretch, your joints ache from staying bent for too long, your back aches because the seats are uncomfortable, and then on top of that there are crying children wailing in the background.

The first moments of any vacation have an important impact on how the rest of the vacation goes. If you start out on the right foot, you will look at future obstacles with an optimistic outlook, and bad situations can quickly be made into good ones.

While flying economy is not the worst experience, flying fist class is simply a different experience.

In economy, it is fairly standard for you to receive complimentary drinks and snacks, meals on longer flights, and also in-flight movies or entertainment. Customer service on airlines are usually rated fairly high because airlines try to do what they can to alleviate the irritation that comes with flying. For most, it is difficult to appreciate the pleasant service when you are stuck in a small space and must listen to the snore of your neighbor.

In first class, many airlines now offer semi private spaces and allows for your chair to fully recline to a flat bed. Not only does this allow for a good night's rest; there are no disturbances to wake you. The menu choices in first class are comparable to the finest restaurants all over the world and often come with complimentary wine pairings. While service in the economy class is fairly good, first class service can be described as highly attentive. All services, including food, are on demand, and the airline will work to make sure that your flight is as pleasurable and hassle-free as possible.

Some nice perks also come with choosing to fly first class. A larger baggage allowance is a standard feature amongst airlines, as well as access to the members' lounge. The lounge may offer amenities such as spa baths, complimentary food and drinks, a library, and free Internet access.

The flying experience does not have to be full of hustle and bustle. Spending a little more on your flight could make your next trip more memorable and much more relaxing. Here are some tips that will help you find the best first class experience:

- Book early! Companies and websites will usually offer cheap airline tickets or early bird specials for those who plan ahead of time.

- Never book last minute flights because you will have to pay the full published fare which can be expensive. These are usually bought by corporate travelers on business.

- Avoid peak business travel days like Monday and Friday. Just by adding a Saturday to your trip could reduce the fare further.

- Flying through a hub connection is often cheap than a direct non-stop flight.

- Call a travel agent to see if they can get a better deal than your own online quote. They can often find unpublished deals.

- Join frequent flyer programs. If you attain elite status, you will be offered many of the first class perks even when you are flying economy.

- Ask about upgrades at the airport. At check-in, if there is space airlines will allow for one-way upgrades which cost much cheaper than buying the first class ticket.

- Use your frequent flyer miles to upgrade to first class.

- if your travel plans are flexible, you can ask if your flight is overbooked and tell the travel representative that your are willing to stay behind for an upgrade on the next flight out. Often times airlines will overbook flights out of popular travel destinations hoping that some people will cancel or miss their flight.

Keep in mind that the services and amenities offered vary from airline to airline. It is best to research what kind of perks are offered before deciding which airline to go with. Spending the extra money can guarantee your own comfort and a good night's sleep on a long haul flight. Follow these tips to enjoy your next flight and your next vacation.