Flying in business or first class might sound like something only celebrities or millionaires get to enjoy, but that’s far from the truth. For many Singaporeans, scoring a premium cabin seat is becoming more achievable with the smart use of air miles, flight upgrades, and even credit card rewards.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the differences between first and business class, what to expect onboard, and how to make the experience more affordable without paying thousands upfront.

The main differences come down to comfort, privacy, service and overall indulgence. Let’s take Singapore Airlines as our benchmark since it’s the flag carrier and widely trusted by locals.

Singapore Airlines’ First Class Suites, especially on the A380, are on another level. Think fully enclosed suites with a separate bed and seat, fine-dining meals served on porcelain, and premium champagne like Krug or Dom Pérignon. It’s essentially a hotel room in the sky.

Business Class, meanwhile, still offers lie-flat seats and top-tier service, but in a more open layout. You’ll get ample space, plush bedding, gourmet meals, and top-notch service, just not the sheer privacy and opulence of First Class.

It’s also worth noting that on newer aircrafts like the SIA A380, the gap between First and Business has narrowed. Both classes offer excellent comfort, although First Class still holds the edge for luxury seekers.

» Learn more: How to upgrade your Singapore Airlines ticket for less

From check-in to arrival, flying in premium cabins is a smoother, more enjoyable experience. Here’s what a typical journey looks like for Singapore travellers flying out of Changi:

• Start at Changi Terminal 3, where Business and First Class passengers enjoy priority check-in and dedicated baggage lanes — no queues, no fuss.

• Next stop: the lounge. Singapore Airlines Business Class travellers can unwind at the SilverKris Lounge, while First Class passengers can access the ultra-exclusive Private Room, where à la carte meals and Champagne flow freely.

• Once it’s time to board, you’ll be among the first to step onto the plane — often greeted personally by name. Onboard, the seat is your sanctuary. In Business Class, it’s a spacious lie-flat bed with extra lighting and storage. In First, it becomes a suite with luxury linens, pyjamas, and even sliding doors for maximum privacy.

• Food and drinks are elevated, too. With “Book the Cook,” you can pre-order lobster thermidor, wagyu beef, or local favourites. Pair it with a premium bubbly, and you’re dining restaurant-style at 30,000 feet.

• Amenity kits (featuring designer skincare), noise-cancelling headphones, and other small luxuries round off the experience — although some of these perks may vary by route or class.

For regional routes (like Bangkok or Manila), business class might just be a recliner seat, so it’s best to manage expectations if you’re only flying short-haul.

» Learn more: How much does flying First Class cost and how to maximize your savings

Flying up front isn’t just about luxury. It can actually make a lot of sense in certain situations. For example, on long-haul flights from Singapore to London or New York, having a proper bed can mean arriving well-rested instead of wrecked.

Red-eye flights departing past midnight? A flat bed and quiet cabin make all the difference.

And of course, if you’re celebrating something special—a honeymoon, milestone birthday or retirement trip—an upgrade adds that extra sparkle.

The good news? You don’t need to pay full fare. Many Singaporeans redeem KrisFlyer miles for Business or First Class awards, especially during Singapore Airlines’ promo periods. Some credit cards, like the AMEX SIA KrisFlyer Ascend, even offer complimentary upgrade vouchers each year.

Or, if you’re already booked in Economy or Premium Economy, look out for upgrade offers via email or at check-in. These can sometimes be a steal compared to buying a Business Class ticket outright.

» Learn more: How to redeem your KrisFlyer miles

That said, upgrading isn’t always worth it.

For flights under three or four hours, like to KL, Bangkok or Bali, you’re unlikely to get a lie-flat seat or full service. You might just get a wider recliner and nicer meal, which may not justify the extra miles or cash.

Upgrades can also cost a pretty penny. If an upgrade costs over $2,000 more than an economy ticket, you might be better off spending that money on your holiday.

And if your trip is all about the destination, not the journey, it might make sense to fly economy and save your points for a more meaningful long-haul experience later on.

To fly Business or First Class without paying full fare, the key is earning KrisFlyer miles efficiently.

Start by signing up for a free KrisFlyer account with Singapore Airlines’ frequent flyer programme.

Next, get a credit card that rewards you with miles. Popular options among Singaporeans include the Citi PremierMiles, DBS Altitude, and UOB PRVI Miles cards.

Read our reviews:

1. https://www.singsaver.com.sg/credit-card/blog/review-citi-premier-miles-card
2. https://www.singsaver.com.sg/blog/dbs-altitude-visa-signature-card-review
3. https://www.singsaver.com.sg/blog/uob-prvi-miles-credit-card-review

These cards let you rack up miles on everyday spending like groceries, dining, and petrol. You can even earn miles on big-ticket payments like rent, income tax, or insurance premiums using platforms like CardUp and PayAll. Just remember to weigh the fees.

If you’re looking for a more premium, high-end card, one of the most highly-rated cards is The AMEX Platinum Credit Card.

Seedly rating: 4.7 stars

READ REVIEW

See rates and fees.

The more expensive a travel card is, the more benefits you’ll get, such as airport lounge access or elite status in certain programs. For example, although the AMEX Platinum Credit Card comes with a steep annual fee, it also gives you access to luxury perks like unlimited lounge access, hotel elite status, and flexible rewards, which are perfect for frequent travellers.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards

Flying in Business or First Class may seem out of reach, but with the right strategies and a little patience, it’s totally doable for Singapore travellers. Whether you’re planning a big overseas trip or just want to maximise your credit card rewards, there’s no harm in aiming higher.

Explore SingSaver’s guides on the best miles credit cards and KrisFlyer strategies to start planning your next premium travel experience.

How to maximisze your rewards

Want to ensure you’re getting the best credit card for your traveling style and habits? Check out the best travel credit cards of 2025:

• Flat-rate rewards: Citi Cash Back+ Card

• Max flexibility and big bonus: UOB PRVI Miles Visa Card

• Cashback on travel bookings: Standard Chartered Simply Cash Credit Card

• Luxury travel perks: Citi Prestige Card

• Business travelers: Citi PremierMiles Card

• Big rewards on everyday spend: Citi Rewards Card