6 cheap ways to travel like you’re in First Class

Budget airlines and cramped terminals have taken the glamour out of flying but a new suite of pay-as-you-go extras can help to put some of it back, without costing a fortune.

First class tickets are an expense few of us can afford, but fortunately there is a middle way between a bargain basement experience and the full price of turning left at the aeroplane door.

Pay-as-you-go luxury is the name of the game for those of us who want to enjoy the experience of travelling but need to stick to a budget, and airlines and airports are increasingly offering a menu of options for travellers to pick from. Here are some that will make a real difference to your trip.

1. Send your luggage on ahead

For many, the slog to the airport, cases in tow, is a trial in itself, so minimise the hassle and send your luggage on ahead. Services like Luggage Mule will pick up the suitcase from your chosen location around a week in advance and send it on to your destination, so your luggage will likely arrive before you do.

If you don’t want to pack up a week in advance, though, Londoners can try Airportr, who will collect your luggage the day before you go and deliver it to the correct airport terminal. If you’re travelling with British Airways, Airportr can even check your bags in for you at home, so you just need to wait at the luggage carousel in your destination.

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2. Get into the airport lounge

Let’s face it, once you’ve got through airport security, spending money is inevitable. You can choose whether to fritter it away on magazines and snacks, or to buy yourself access to a lounge area for a bit more peace and quiet.

Some airports, including Heathrow and Gatwick, offer standalone lounges that anyone can book, with complimentary meals, magazines and drinks thrown in. No 1 Lounges cost between £18 and £30 for adults, depending on amenities, and less for children.

More frequent travellers might want to consider buying access to a network of lounges across the world. Priority Pass has the largest network and costs £69 for a standard annual membership, and you pay a fee on top per visit. You can also sign in guests for a small fee.

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Alternatively, Priority Pass membership is available with some credit cards – usually those with annual fees, including the American Express Platinum card.

Meanwhile, many airports worldwide have lounges run by Aspire, which can be booked by anyone, with no need for a membership.

3. Step to the front of the queue

FastTrack security used to be the preserve of the wealthy, but at many regional airports you can join the shorter queue for as little as £3. Some airports, including London Gatwick, also offer premium passport control, limited to 50 people an hour, so that you needn’t queue on arrival either (£5).

Even ferry services have got in on the act. P&O offers priority boarding and disembarking for £12 per car, as well as a Club Lounge when you’re onboard for £12 per person with a quiet area and free champagne.

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4. Leave your car at the airport door

Taking a shuttle bus to and from your car at the end of a trip is not the most relaxing part of your holiday, so booking valet parking can ensure your car is waiting for you at the end of your trip. Valet parking is available directly from many airport websites like Holiday Extras or through the airport's own website. Many providers allow you to have your car cleaned while it is parked, saving you a job for when you come back.

5. Get airline food that you really want to eat

Airline food in standard class has a poor reputation, but with many airlines you don’t have to pay the earth to get something better. Instead you can pre-book an appetising meal that will make your seatmates envious. On some Austrian Airlines flights, you can order anything from a pan-fried breakfast served in a skillet to a bento box full of sushi for 15 euros, while KLM A La Carte offers three-course meals from 12 euros. British Airways offers a variety of menus including a Taste of Britain featuring smoked salmon, pork belly and summer pudding from £15 with drinks included.

Don’t wait until you are onboard to decide though, these meals need to be booked in advance.

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6. Get specialist local knowledge

Concierges, or “lifestyle managers”, are big business and can help you to access the best hotels, restaurants or shows at your destination. The American Express Platinum Card offers a concierge service, and frequent travellers also benefit from other services such as travel insurance, gap year insurance for dependants and lounge access as well as reward points.

If you’re not an Amex member, MeetnGreetMe allows local would-be concierges to advertise their services as personal assistants for your holiday. Some offer everything from guided tours to attendance at a local party, though it’s a relatively new service and feedback is thin on the ground.