First Time Flying First Class? Here's Everything You Need To Know

Forbes

a day ago

Step aboard Air India's First Class, where luxury reveals itself in every detail. The full tea service in Air India's first class is representative of the luxury the airline provides on select aircrafts and routes. Air India
Among frequent fliers, 'first class' is more than a metaphor. It's a familiar land of flat beds, hot towels, and flight attendants who make eye contact. For first-timers who stride down that jet bridge like a runway at Charles de Gaulle, it's important to ensure you don't out yourself as a coach-class defector.
In first class, your deportment speaks. Details from shoes to your carry-on, and even your choice of beverage, tell a story.
'Flying first class isn't just about the seat, it's about the statement,' said William Hanson, Britain's leading etiquette coach and author of Just Good Manners. 'How you dress signals to the crew and fellow passengers that you respect both yourself and the privilege of the cabin.'
Here's what to expect, how to prepare, and how to float through the first-class cabin like you belong.
Somewhere between Singapore and sleep, your seat became a suite—and your suite became a full-size sanctuary in the sky. Only Singapore Airlines tucks you into this luxury Double Suite for two with this much elegance at 35,000 feet. Singapore Airlines
While both business and first-class cabins might come with lie-flat seats (on Singapore, full double beds) on international and long-haul flights, flying first class — when done properly — still reigns as the crown jewel of air travel. First class has fewer passengers, elevated service with more personalized attention, and upgraded everything: caviar, pajamas, designer amenity kits and enough privacy to feel like you're in your own private luxury cocoon. On some airlines, the line blurs; on others (hello, Emirates!), it's a suite with a sliding door, vanity, private bar and a butler in the sky.
'On Emirates, Business Class gives you lie-flat beds and solid service,' said Andrew Satkowiak, Executive Vice President of The Luxury Travel Agency, 'but in First, it's a totally different league. You're in a private suite with a door. The screen is bigger. There's a higher crew-to-passenger ratio. The wine and liquor list is top shelf. Meals are served course-by-course, like you're at a fine restaurant. You get designer pajamas, elevated amenity kits, and on the A380, the luxury of taking a shower in the sky.
'And the experience doesn't start or end on the plane. In Dubai, you can access the First Class Lounge, which offers the same kind of elevated experience—à la carte dining, private rest areas, and sometimes even spa treatments.'
Then there are international carriers like Air India, where Business Class on their A350 is as elevated as it gets. It's the top-tier cabin, but don't let the name fool you; this 'Business' class flies like First. Expect a curated pour of prestige labels, including Veuve Clicquot, and a wine list that will quicken the pulse of any seasoned sommelier. For both EVA Air (Royal Laurel Class), based in Taiwan, and Air Tahiti Nui (Poerava Business Class), business class is their top-tier cabin. Before The Airport: Dress Codes, Decorum, Electrolytes
At $569, the Briggs & Riley Global 21" Expandable Spinner isn't just luggage — it's an investment in movement. This Canyon-hued stunner is crafted with durable ballistic nylon, framed in aircraft-grade aluminum, and built to navigate terminals and tarmacs with silky ease. Inside, thoughtful organization meets sleek innovation, making it a favorite among frequent flyers who don't check bags — or standards. Briggs & Riley
First class begins long before you reach the airport. It starts with planning and packing. Select a stylish, structured carry-on (Tumi, Briggs & Riley or Rimowa, not the duffel from college). Dress well. This isn't the time for flip-flops and sweatpants, unless they were made by Loro Piana.
'You needn't arrive in full evening dress, but nor should you look as if you've wandered in from a gym,' said William Hanson, Britain's leading etiquette coach and expert, and author of 'Just Good Manners'. 'Think elevated comfort: tailored trousers or dark jeans, a crisp shirt or fine-gauge knit, and polished loafers or clean leather fashion trainer (sneaker). Avoid anything awash with logos: true luxury whispers. A smart blazer and a proper bag go a long way in helping you look like you belong. After all, when you look the part, you're far more likely to be treated as such. And you can always change into the complimentary pyjamas once airborne.' Smart Apps And Smarter Hydration
Dr. Pooja Gidwani, a Concierge & Longevity Physician for Peak Performance, tells her patients to prep before flying. One tip is stay very hydrated by drinking lots of water (48 hours prior to flying and in-flight) and avoid alcohol and carbonated drinks in-flight. getty
Once packed, download the airline's app to manage upgrades and lounge access. Some airlines will provide car service to the airport; when that's not an option, lean in and use a luxury chauffeur service to handle your bags from pickup to dropoff.
Flying isn't easy on the human body, so your pre-flight routine should involve plenty of physical prep.
'Cabin humidity drops below 10 percent, and most travelers lose about 8 ounces of water per hour in the air,' said Dr. Pooja Gidwani, a Concierge & Longevity Physician for Peak Performance.
Dr. Gidwani recommends hydrating 48 hours in advance of a flight using water combined with electrolytes that include sodium, potassium, and magnesium to support optimal cellular hydration. During the flight, sip electrolyte-enhanced water every hour — especially when enjoying wine or cocktails. Alcohol is one of the biggest disruptors of hydration and sleep, and it also impairs skin quality, promotes puffiness, and leads to poor recovery, Gidwani said. At The Airport: Lounges, Lines And The Art of Not Rushing
First class isn't just a seat—it's a philosophy. Singapore Airlines sets the gold standard with service so seamless, you'll wonder if they read your mind at 35,000 feet. Singapore Airlines
First-class passengers glide past security lines, often through a private entrance. Some airlines (Emirates, again!) even have a private entrance to the airplane directly from the lounge. Once inside, make your way to the first class lounge — not the business class lounge. There's a difference (usually involving Dom Pérignon).
Order a drink. Or don't. The trick is to look like you've done this before. Recline. Refresh. And when it's time to board, remember: first class goes first for a reason.
'Avoid playing with the seat like an excitable puppy or snapping obvious photos of your spacious surroundings, as this screams of someone who is not used to it,' Hanson said. In Flight Is Where the Real Theater Begins
Passengers flying in Singapore Airlines' First Class and Suites are treated to exclusive Lalique amenity kits — a refined collaboration between two heritage luxury brands. Each kit is a curated experience of French artistry and craftsmanship, offering crystal-inspired touches, designer toiletries, and select lifestyle items that reflect Lalique's century-long legacy of elegance. Singapore Airlines
Expect pre-departure drinks (Champagne, naturally) and personalized greetings. Meals are typically served at the passenger's request from an extensive a la carte menu, often on real china with proper salt and pepper shakers. The wine list may be better than your last dinner out.
'I was flying from Dubai to Johannesburg, relaxing in the onboard bar (shared between Business and First),' said Michael Taylor, the Senior Managing Director for Travel, Hospitality, Retail and Customer Service at J. D. Power. 'I was sipping Dom Pérignon and a Business Class passenger asked the bartender for a glass. The bartender politely responded, 'sorry, that's only for First Class.' It's little things like that which remind you you're in a different tier.'
Pro tip: don't overreact to the seat turning into a bed. Act like it always does. And if pajamas are offered? Accept them, change discreetly, and take them home. They're yours now. The pajamas usually come with socks, but many first-class passengers bring an extra pair, or put the airline pair over their own for a snuggly sleep experience. If nothing else, you'll appreciate the socks while walking to and from the lavatory. The floor may be first-class, but it's still filthy. To Upgrade Or Not To Upgrade, That Is The Question
Is first class worth the splurge? For long-haul journeys, red-eyes, or those once-in-a-lifetime moments—honeymoons, milestone birthdays, post-breakup reinventions—it just might be. getty
Is first class worth the cost of admission? For long-haul flights, overnight routes, or special occasions (honeymoons, milestone birthdays, post-breakup reinventions), maybe. For short domestic hops? Maybe not — unless you value peace, quiet, and the ability to sip espresso at 30,000 feet without a lid. How To Score A First-Class Upgrade
There are two kinds of people in the world: those who get upgraded and those who don't know how. While luck will favor some and stifle others, here are a few tips on how join the first group: Be Loyal : Elite status with an airline can work wonders. So can showing loyalty to one airline alliance.
: Elite status with an airline can work wonders. So can showing loyalty to one airline alliance. Dress the Part : Yes, gate agents notice.
: Yes, gate agents notice. Ask Politely : Charm never hurts. And timing is everything.
: Charm never hurts. And timing is everything. Travel Solo: Upgrades are more likely when there's only one seat left and only one of you.
Marcin Starkowski, Group PR Manager for eSky Group, notes that American Airlines Executive Platinum members can use 'systemwide upgrades' to jump from business to first, while Emirates Skywards offers cash and mile-based upgrades at online check-in.
'Midweek and 'red-eye' flights are less likely to be full, improving your chances,' Starkowski said. 'While rare, discretionary upgrades still exist.' Flying First Class With A Discount? Yes, It Exists
First class doesn't always mean full price. Look for: Flash Sales: Airlines quietly offer deals, often on their own sites or apps. Mileage Upgrades : Save your points for a real splurge.
: Save your points for a real splurge. Travel Windows : Midweek flights and shoulder seasons offer the best chance of a steal.
: Midweek flights and shoulder seasons offer the best chance of a steal. Third-Party Booking Sites: Just be sure to compare directly with the airline — sometimes the 'deal' is déjà vu in disguise.
"Airlines often release discounted first-class seats 24 to 72 hours before departure, particularly if a cabin is undersold," Starkowski said. "Checking your reservation periodically can pay off – sometimes the price difference is just a few hundred dollars." First Class vs. Business Class: The Final Descent
Flying first class isn't just about where you sit — it's a state of mind. So carry yourself accordingly: with confidence, calm, electrolytes, and just the right amount of curated nonchalance. Because up here, it's not about how you got your seat. It's how you wear it.
And remember, even if it's your first time, no one has to know. Unless, of course, you Instagram the Champagne.