Should I fly first class or coach in retirement?

Retirement is the time to enjoy the fruits of your hard work—but deciding how to spend your money can sometimes be a challenge. One of the most common questions we hear is whether to splurge on first-class flights or stick with coach. Here are some factors to consider when making this decision:

1. Comfort vs. Cost

Flying first class offers undeniable perks: more space, better food, priority boarding, and a quieter cabin. These comforts can make travel more enjoyable, especially for long flights, and may even help you recover faster once you land. If you have back issues, trouble sleeping on planes, or other health concerns, the added comfort might be worth it.

On the other hand, first-class tickets can cost significantly more than coach. If you’re on a tight budget or worried about running out of money in retirement, it might be harder to justify the expense.

2. Switching From Saver to Spender

Many retirees struggle with shifting their mindset from saving to spending. After years of being frugal, spending on luxuries like first class can feel uncomfortable, even if you can afford it. Balancing the joy of living well with the practicality of budgeting is key. For some clients we will also run the increased cost through their plan so they can see if it will have any impact on their overall retirement plan success, this can be very useful for some people to see in black and white the impact, whether it’s significant or not.

3. Are You at Risk of Dying With Too Much Money?

It’s a strange thought, but some retirees end up passing away with more money than they ever planned to spend. If your financial plan shows you’re on track to leave a comfortable legacy, you might feel more freedom to treat yourself occasionally. After all, the goal isn’t just to accumulate wealth but to enjoy it too, whilst you still can.

4. Using a Concierge Service

If you’re considering first class but still want to get good value for your money, using a travel concierge service can help. These services often have insider knowledge and connections to find discounted premium seats, upgrades, or even package deals that include luxury perks at a lower price.

5. Other Ways to Get a Good Deal

If a concierge isn’t your style, there are still plenty of ways to score better flight deals:

• Airline Miles: Use credit card points or frequent flyer miles to upgrade without paying full price.
• Upgrades at Check-In: Some airlines offer last-minute upgrades at a discount during check-in.
• Off-Peak Travel: Flying during less popular times or days can make first-class tickets more affordable.
• Mixed-Class Tickets: Consider flying first class for the longer leg of your trip and coach for the shorter one.

These strategies can help you enjoy extra comfort without overspending.

6. The Bigger Picture

Your choice between first class and coach ultimately depends on your personal priorities. If you’re financially secure and value comfort and convenience, treating yourself to first class might be worth it. If you’re more budget-conscious, there’s nothing wrong with sticking to coach and using the savings for other parts of your retirement adventures.

Bottom Line

Retirement is about finding the right balance between enjoying life now and feeling secure about your financial future. Whether you choose first class or coach, the key is to make decisions that align with your values, your budget, and the experiences you want to create. After all, retirement is your time—make it count.

Any opinions are those of Vivian Investment Partners, are subject to change and are not necessarily those of Raymond James. This material is being provided for information purposes only and is not a complete description, nor is it a recommendation. Every investor's situation is unique, and you should consider your investment goals, risk tolerance and time horizon before making any investment. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation.