I flew business class for the first time — here's what nobody tells you

Metro

19-07-2025

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Metro's First-Person and Opinion Editor, Jess Austin, recently flew business class from London to Toronto with British Airways.
She'd never 'turned left' before, and was keen to see if it was worth splurging on an upgrade.
Now, having had a taste of the finer things, she shares her verdict on whether almost-excessive leg room, White Company freebies, and endless snacks are worth the extra dosh.
Jess, over to you.
The background: I'm not the best flier. For me, the holiday starts when I land; the flight itself is just the means to an end.
But then again, I've always flown economy.
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That all changed on my recent British Airways flight from Heathrow to Toronto, where I was upgraded to business class – or Club World, as they call it.
And, after finally 'turning left', I have to say, I see the appeal.
What were the highlights? From the ridiculous amount of leg room, to the fully reclining seats, and the giant multimedia screens, it was like travelling on a much nicer version of my sofa — bliss.
What other perks do you get? Things got off to a good start when, after arriving at Heathrow, I discovered there was a separate check-in desk for Club World passengers.
An extra 50 steps and I was ushered through to a bag drop terminal, before walking straight into a priority security line.
What is the cabin actually like? I was lucky enough to be flying Club Suite – the newly renovated Club World cabins – which have direct aisle access (with a door for privacy) and a seat that converts into a 6ft 6inch bed.
Greeted with a choice of orange juice or champagne, I settled into my seat, exploring all the secret storage compartments (I counted three but there could definitely be more).
You mentioned White Company freebies — what were they? In my seat, a White Company goodie bag awaited, with the expected toothbrush and toothpaste, eye mask and socks, but also lip balm, a gentle moisturiser, and a relaxing pulse point roller.
Little perks that left me excited for my long flight, rather than waiting for it to be over.
What was the food like? As soon as I sat down, I scoured the menu.
I'm actually not averse to plane food. I'm never expecting greatness so I'm always pleasantly surprised, especially when it's hot and cheesy.
When you fly Club World, it's a whole other level. There's silver cutlery and three course meals served on proper plates. Wild.
I started with a red lentil soup, followed by grilled cod with Bombay potatoes, broccolini, spinach and a tomato and coconut sauce, before finishing up with a lemon meringue bar.
The cod, especially, was delicious and the coconut sauce was really light and fragrant. I honestly didn't think in-flight meals could be so fresh.
Then there were mocktails, and later in the flight a really tasty sarnie to keep the hunger at bay (not to mention the snacks that were readily available throughout).
Anything else? Usually, post-food is the time I'd try and force myself to sleep for the rest of the flight, trying to blot out as much as possible but this time, I didn't want to.
I reclined my chair, and settled in for a movie marathon.
The lack of Crazy Rich Asians (if you know, you know) was made up for by Wicked, Miss Congeniality, and About Time, and the fact that there was a quality White Company blanket and (what I assumed was a) quilted seat cover.
What didn't you like so much?
While I'd genuinely struggle to find aspects of the trip I didn't enjoy, I would say that I could take or leave lounges.
I'd never experienced one before, and while I appreciated being able to secure a guaranteed seat and have a bit of free food, it took a while to find one (there are multiple lounges, who knew?) with space.
Ok, it sounds great. How much does business with BA cost?
Club World flights to Toronto start at £1,302 for the same date in May 2026, compared to £767 in economy.
It's not something I could personally afford to do regularly, but for long-haul trips where you want to make the most of every moment, it could be the perfect treat.
Final thoughts? More Trending
Tucked up in my cocoon, aware that my bladder wasn't going to annoy my seat neighbours (because I had none), surrounded by lovely flight attendants and fully sated, I didn't feel tense or scared, which is quite something for someone with a fear of flying.
I think the best word to describe the experience would be 'smooth'; it felt like I could decompress and arrive at my destination relaxed.
This flight certainly didn't feel like the means to an end.
We're doing our best to bring you the inside scoop on what every airline offers.
And our Lifestyle Editor, Kristina Beanland, recently flew business class from London to Chicago with Aer Lingus.
It was her first time travelling outside economy, and the experience was a world away from the flying she's accustomed to.
From take-off champagne to pillows and metal spoons, you can read her honest review here.
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