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Replies: 45
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110%er [3856]
TigerPulse: 100%
35
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is flying first class worth the kidney it takes to afford it?
1
Jan 7, 2025, 12:16 PM
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Going on a long trip in a couple of months. Old knees, wide body ... is first class or even one of those upgraded sections (flying Delta) worth the pound of flesh it takes to get one of those seats?
I think maybe it's the seats that make the difference? Don't care about the food/booze/service. Just want to be able to sleep without waking to find my b*lls are under my chin.
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Game Changer [1623]
TigerPulse: 85%
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As I get older, the more Im willing to spend on comfort
3
Jan 7, 2025, 12:23 PM
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With the time I have left.
I’d also check to see if there was a business class option but at one point, I don’t think there is a price point too big for comfort and peace of mind.
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Rock Defender [51]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: is flying first class worth the kidney it takes to afford it?
2
Jan 7, 2025, 12:23 PM
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Depends how long the trip is. I find that delta premium select has plenty of room for me to sleep and be comfortable on 8 hour flights to Europe.
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110%er [3856]
TigerPulse: 100%
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8 hour flight.
2
Jan 7, 2025, 12:25 PM
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Thanks - thinking Premium Select may be the way to go.
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Rival Killer [2781]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: 8 hour flight.
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Jan 7, 2025, 3:22 PM
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Yep, Premium Select, or even just an emergency aisle, the seats behind a bulkhead - they don't have to be 1st class, but as a bigger guy, every bit helps.
That being said, I've only flown first class twice (both when my company was paying) and it was worth it for sure.
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Game Day Hero [4479]
TigerPulse: 100%
36
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Re: is flying first class worth the kidney it takes to afford it?
3
Jan 7, 2025, 12:27 PM
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I just did DC-LAX-Sydney (~23hrs) and the Premium Economy on United (Premium Select on Delta) was worth it. I was actually somewhat rested when I got there.
Would I pay for it on a 3-4hr flight? Heck no. But if I am crossing an ocean probably will.
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110%er [3856]
TigerPulse: 100%
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23 hours. Brutal.
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Jan 7, 2025, 12:29 PM
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I realize that includes layovers. But still. Brutal.
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Orange Immortal [66971]
TigerPulse: 100%
60
Posts: 42244
Joined: 2004
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Re: 23 hours. Brutal.
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Jan 7, 2025, 12:55 PM
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LAX - SYD is about 15hrs all by itself.
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Clemson Conqueror [11797]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: 23 hours. Brutal.
Jan 7, 2025, 4:57 PM
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Done CHS-ATL-LAX to SYD right at 10 times, Delta Comfort or or Business, is great and worth it but thankfully the last 4-5x I got upgraded to first and had my own Pod, that was amazing. Give you free pajamas and down blanket.
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Game Day Hero [4479]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: 23 hours. Brutal.
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Jan 7, 2025, 1:15 PM
[ in reply to 23 hours. Brutal. ] |
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Maybe my expectations on just how brutal it was going to be was overblown because it wasn't that bad. Jetlag wise it was much easier than flying from the east coast to europe.
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Commissioner [1277]
TigerPulse: 92%
27
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Ive been to Asia multiple timesit never felt as bad either. For me I think
3
Jan 7, 2025, 2:15 PM
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it is because you leave the US in the morning, so I read, watch movies, etc, dose just a little and then land in the late afternoon, eat and go to bed. Better acclimation structure on my end than flying overnight, knowing I should be sleeping, landing at 7am and going about a day like it is normal.
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Game Day Hero [4479]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: Ive been to Asia multiple timesit never felt as bad either. For me I think
2
Jan 7, 2025, 2:23 PM
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My theory is that when you fly east coast to Europe its about a 7hr flight usually taking off in the evening. Take off, wait for initial drinks, getting your meal, eating, cleanup, maybe a little tv or movie and you are 3-4hrs into the trip. Then trying to sleep for 2hrs before the turn the lights back on to give you coffee and a snack before landing. You maybe got 1-2hrs of crappy sleep.
As tigerswimmer mentioned the flights from the west coast to Sydney (or imagine Japan/China) is 15hrs. Do all those same things (drink, meal, cleanup, tv/movie) you still have a good 10hrs to get some sleep before they turn on the lights 2hrs prior to landing.
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110%er [3856]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Clemson Conqueror [11797]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: We're wheels up out of ATL at almost 10 p.m.
1
Jan 7, 2025, 5:00 PM
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You will be fine on arrival but you will get jetlag on the second day and ready for bed by 2pm.
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Commissioner [1277]
TigerPulse: 92%
27
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Don't drink alcohol before or on the flight, and don't stress
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Jan 8, 2025, 8:47 AM
[ in reply to We're wheels up out of ATL at almost 10 p.m. ] |
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over any lack of perceived rest or sleep. Oh, and everyone is different on this, but if I nap during that first day I'm toast…just power through the day then eat dinner and go to bed early.
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Game Day Hero [4479]
TigerPulse: 100%
36
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Re: We're wheels up out of ATL at almost 10 p.m.
1
Jan 8, 2025, 11:35 AM
[ in reply to We're wheels up out of ATL at almost 10 p.m. ] |
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Just dont stop moving once you get there and definitely don't fool yourself by saying "I will just lay down for a minute"
Crash at your normal bed time on the clock that night.
Best of luck and enjoy!
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Ultimate Tiger [33209]
TigerPulse: 100%
56
Posts: 17049
Joined: 2008
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Re: is flying first class worth the kidney it takes to afford it?
3
Jan 7, 2025, 1:00 PM
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Back in my teens, I booked a seat on a Greyhound bus from Greenville, SC to Miami, Fla. 24 hours and there were no layovers or changing busses. Trip back was 25 hours since it was uphill. I never stepped foot back on a bus. Matter of fact, I get sick just by seeing a greyhound bus. Thank goodness, I rarely see one. That was 65 years ago. Today, no amount of loot would get me on a 24 hour ride on a Greyhond bus. Might take a 30 min.ride for a million dollars, but not a min. longer or a dollar less.
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110%er [3856]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Never took the bus but did take the Amtrak
2
Jan 7, 2025, 1:27 PM
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once from Clemson to Union Station/DC and back.
Never again.
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Asst Coach [840]
TigerPulse: 100%
23
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Re: is flying first class worth the kidney it takes to afford it?
1
Jan 7, 2025, 3:46 PM
[ in reply to Re: is flying first class worth the kidney it takes to afford it? ] |
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Once while at Clemson, I took a Greyhound bus round trip from Greenville to Colorado Springs and back. Two overnights on the bus each way. Never again. Some of those bus stations can be a little sketchy.
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Solid Orange [1345]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: is flying first class worth the kidney it takes to afford it?
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Jan 7, 2025, 1:06 PM
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Yes definitely. If going cross country or out of the country I’d say yes. Last time I flew out west I upgrade each flight and it was less than 200 per leg. Better for using the John and just general comfort. I would always get behind that one person that wanted to recline and my knees would be in the seat. Not much too the service in domestic first class but if going overseas you get the little condo with the bed recliners maybe. If domestic first class do not get on the back row as the folks behind you can still kick your seat
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1st Rounder [638]
TigerPulse: 96%
21
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Re: is flying first class worth the kidney it takes to afford it?
2
Jan 7, 2025, 1:12 PM
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if you have to ask the answer is no. I'm not being a snob but thats the line.
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Paw Master [16110]
TigerPulse: 100%
51
Posts: 17606
Joined: 1999
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When I was younger I traveled to Asia for work often, and we were entitled to
2
Jan 7, 2025, 1:26 PM
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book Business Class. My boss developed a policy where you would get $1,000 if you opted for Economy (the difference was more than that for the company). I always did. I couldn't care less as I usually slept most of the way and I didn't feel any effect.
Fast forward two decades later...I'm not sure I'd take them up on it.
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All-In [10684]
TigerPulse: 96%
45
Posts: 12007
Joined: 2003
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Re: is flying first class worth the kidney it takes to afford it?
1
Jan 7, 2025, 1:46 PM
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Depends on the price. I have flown to Asia many times on business and business class is great, especially so when the company is paying. For US flights, typically not worth it but I would usually try for an exit row which usually gives you extra leg room. For Europe, the Plus coach seating is my typical go to.
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110%er [3856]
TigerPulse: 100%
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this is a self-funded jaunt so cost is a consideration.
1
Jan 7, 2025, 2:31 PM
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Game Changer [1983]
TigerPulse: 100%
31
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Yes!
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Jan 7, 2025, 2:00 PM
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Orange Immortal [68630]
TigerPulse: 100%
60
Posts: 90381
Joined: 2001
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IMO...for shorter flights, absolutely not...
1
Jan 7, 2025, 2:18 PM
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Especially if you have priority with the airlines and routinely get upgraded at no cost.
For longer overseas type flights, especially if you want to sleep and have ample space to eat/enjoy your meals(s), those benefits may outweigh the added cost.
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110%er [3856]
TigerPulse: 100%
35
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This is an overseas flight - about 8 hours ish.
1
Jan 7, 2025, 2:31 PM
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110%er [3856]
TigerPulse: 100%
35
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I think what's selling me on it other than all y'all
Jan 7, 2025, 4:50 PM
[ in reply to IMO...for shorter flights, absolutely not... ] |
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touting the benefits of the upgrade, is that *footrest* on those Premium Select seats Delta has.
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Dynasty Maker [3181]
TigerPulse: 70%
34
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Definitely worth it, especially for anything longer
2
Jan 7, 2025, 2:22 PM
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than 2 hours or so.
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Varsity [143]
TigerPulse: 98%
11
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Re: is flying first class worth the kidney it takes to afford it?
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Jan 7, 2025, 2:31 PM
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Years ago I got upgraded to first class on a flight to Vegas, I have not flown coach since. Just one person's opinion mind you, but I enjoy the comfort of it.
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Orange Blooded [2141]
TigerPulse: 99%
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Re: is flying first class worth the kidney it takes to afford it?
2
Jan 7, 2025, 2:31 PM
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Yes on a long trip, not really on a shorter one... long being more than 4-5 hours...
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Orange Beast [6415]
TigerPulse: 100%
40
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Re: is flying first class worth the kidney it takes to afford it?
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Jan 7, 2025, 2:32 PM
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You mention long haul so I am thinking international. For long haul flights, I , at a minimum, book Comfort +. Was able to upgrade reasonably into Premium Select once and into Delta One Suites once. Delta One Suites will absolutely ruin you.
Don’t know your situation and location but here is a tidbit I stumbled upon. Delta flights out of JFK are usually cheaper than Atlanta. I have been able to fly AA from Atlanta to JFK, spend the night, then fly international the next day on Delta. The JFK route saved me money and got me a nicer seat. Good luck
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Orange Beast [6415]
TigerPulse: 100%
40
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Re: is flying first class worth the kidney it takes to afford it?
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Jan 7, 2025, 3:02 PM
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Meant to say AA from Charlotte to JFK.
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110%er [3856]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Legend [6868]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: is flying first class worth the kidney it takes to afford it?
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Jan 7, 2025, 2:40 PM
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I told my wife a few years ago that we will never fly coach again and have not in the past 10 years. YES....it is worth it. Every penny!
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Paw Warrior [4887]
TigerPulse: 100%
37
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Re: is flying first class worth the kidney it takes to afford it?
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Jan 7, 2025, 3:03 PM
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If a long flight, yes.
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Game Changer [1927]
TigerPulse: 100%
31
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My wife and I are addicted to it. We pony up as much as possible, but
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Jan 7, 2025, 3:12 PM
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Most times we cant afford it over 4 hours. If its 3 hours or less, it is achievable. You board and get off 1st. Free drinks. Less people for the bathrooms.
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All-In [10235]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: My wife and I are addicted to it. We pony up as much as possible, but
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Jan 7, 2025, 4:11 PM
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If one is Traveling in the US and have plenty of time taking a train is also a good option. Train seats usually have much more leg and arm room than airplanes seats. I have travel by train across country several times and enjoyed the trip. Could get up and wander down the aisle to the beverage car, etc. Sure was nice to get in some steps along the way. Just a thought.
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110%er [3856]
TigerPulse: 100%
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I rode the Amtrak (Southern Crescent)
Jan 7, 2025, 4:55 PM
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from Clemson to DC a while back. It was overnight and I didn't spring for the berth. I just sat in what I guess was economy/coach. It was a long night. The trip back was easier -- daytime. But that first leg was a beast.
But I did appreciate being able to head back and sit in the little cafe area. The train was just very dirty and hot.
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110%er [4061]
TigerPulse: 100%
35
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Re: is flying first class worth the kidney it takes to afford it?
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Jan 7, 2025, 5:06 PM
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On overseas flights when there are lie down seats- absolutely worth it. Anything over like 3 hours is worth it to me even. Less than that, not worth it
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110%er [3915]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: is flying first class worth the kidney it takes to afford it?
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Jan 8, 2025, 8:57 AM
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We don't fly often but when we do we fly first class. Well worth it in my opinion. I'm 6'4" wife is 6'1" we need the space.
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Valley Legend [12774]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: is flying first class worth the kidney it takes to afford it?
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Jan 8, 2025, 10:13 AM
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For me, it depends on the flight. Short 1 hour or less flights, I can suffer through any Machiavellian torture device the airline can imagine. More than one hour - front of coach and on the aisle or better. Crossing an ocean - business class or better. Nice swanky vacation- business class or better.
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National Champion [7640]
TigerPulse: 76%
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premium economy or select
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Jan 8, 2025, 11:32 AM
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gives you a little more room and definitely worth the $$
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Athletic Dir [1112]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: premium economy or select
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Jan 8, 2025, 12:50 PM
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Why would you want to fly 1st class and be up in front of the plane when last rear seat in economy arrives at almost the same time??
WT
ps J/K over my career, I've flown umpteen miles. My worst 2 flights was to Vietnam and back in 68-69 and military used contract haulers using old nearly worn out Boeing 707s etc and they packed our arses in there. Think a sardine in a can as 1st class. Total flying time was about 19 hrs with refuel stops in Alaska/Japan/Guam. Trip over was sad - flight HOME was great.
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Starter [290]
TigerPulse: 97%
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Re: is flying first class worth the kidney it takes to afford it?
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Jan 8, 2025, 1:25 PM
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On a trip overseas, splurge on business if you can. The defined space and lay flat seats do wonders for your health and wellbeing, especially mentally. If I had to sit 11 wide next to a screaming kid or obnoxious adult, I’d probably be on a no fly list. I just consider the flight as a part of my vacation.
Other tips - once you eat dinner (pretty good in delta business) put on the do not disturb, have a whiskey and a Benadryl, put in noise cancelling earbuds and conk out. Waking up every hour for warm cookies and more booze isn’t the way to go. Attendants will leave you alone until breakfast if you ask. Then, power through the 1st day and just go to bed early in Europe. Don’t nap before or you’ll never get adjusted.
Lastly, good luck at Heathrow. Plan on 2-3 hours to get out of the airport if it’s your final destination. If not, Hope you’ve got a 3 hour layover so you can make that next flight. Gotta catch a bus, go through immigration, etc. Pain in the rump but if you’ve got time, it is what it is.
Safe travels.
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Orange Elite [5595]
TigerPulse: 100%
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No, not unless you have a medical condition
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Jan 8, 2025, 1:35 PM
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I get it if you have a bad back or if you are 6’6”
Otherwise it’s total a waste of money
You can pay $10-15K for these tickets - for just a few hours of bad sleep and crappy movies ?
If you’ve got money to burn, then just charter a G800.
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Replies: 45
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