How to Nab an Affordable First-Class Ticket to Europe

Flight prices from the United States to Europe are ridiculously cheap right now, which begs the question: Have prices for first- and business-class seats dropped, too? The answer is yes, and since they’re more affordable than ever, here are the best ways to snag those coveted seats for these fairly long-haul flights. 

Sign up for mailing lists. No one likes junk email amassing in inboxes, but amid the spam, keep an eye out for emails from airlines, whose newsletters you should sign up for. When airlines have flash sales, they will notify newsletter subscribers, and once you become aware of a sale price, cross-check it on sites like Regal Wings, which typically shows the same sales but for business-class seats.

Research alternative airlines (and routes). Some of us have undying loyalty to the big three (American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines), but with the advent of international discount airlines, it can be worth looking into those prices for the same seats. Also, if you’re flying to a bigger European city, check to see how much flights would cost to arrive at a different airport than the city’s closest, which may require further transport when on the ground but can cost considerably less for a seat in the air.

Peruse your frequent-flyer miles. If you’re as confused about how to calculate your frequent-flyer miles as I am, there are solutions, like Award Wallet which compiles your points and miles from airlines, hotels and credit cards. Not sure how to redeem them? Resources like The Points Guy can help break it down so you know how to best use your hard-earned points.