It is possible to enjoy the luxuries of first class travel at coach prices. Many airlines offer discount first class tickets for domestic and international travel, but they are not always available. Keep in mind that most discount first class tickets are not refundable.
Use a website specifically designed to search for discount first class tickets. These include Farecompare and Flyfirstclass (See Resources).
Cash in your frequent flyer miles. If you have enough miles accumulated from previous trips, contact a customer service agent for the airline and make inquiries about using the miles to upgrade from a coach ticket to a first class ticket.
Book your flight through a travel agent. Most airlines do not display the option of booking discount first class tickets on their website, but a travel agent can make the search easier. Ask the agent to search for Y up or Q up tickets, the airline industry’s terms for discount first class tickets for domestic travel. Z-fares are discount first class tickets for international flights.
Ask airline ticket agents for first class seats if you are booking at the last minute. Airlines typically find it difficult to fill the first class section. You may have a better chance of obtaining a seat in this section at economy class prices if you are booking at the last minute.
