Many train operators offer first class seating as an upgrade from standard class. First class areas are located toward the front or back of the train and offer more spacious seating, increased legroom, and additional amenities. But is paying the premium for first class actually worth it? There are several factors to consider when weighing up whether or not to book first class train tickets.
Key differences between standard and first class
There are some key differences between standard and first class seating on trains:
Seat size and legroom
First class seats are wider with increased legroom. This allows you to stretch out and get comfortable, especially on longer journeys. Standard class seats tend to be narrower and more cramped.
Seating layout
First class carriages have a more spacious 2+1 seating layout compared to the tighter 2+2 configuration in standard class. This gives you more room and means you’re less likely to be disturbed by people needing to squeeze past you.
Tables
Most first class seats have fold-out tables or trays. This provides a useful work surface or somewhere to rest food and drinks. Standard class seats often just have a small tray table that folds down.
Power sockets
There are power sockets at most first class seats, allowing you to charge devices on the move. Access to power is less common in standard class.
Complimentary food and drinks
First class ticket holders can enjoy complimentary snacks, meals, and beverages. You’ll need to purchase food and drinks separately when traveling standard class.
Enhanced service
Many train operators provide an enhanced service in first class with attendants on hand to take care of any requests. You don’t get this attentive level of service in standard.
First class amenities by rail operator
The specific first class amenities available varies between train companies:
Virgin Trains
– Complimentary light meals, snacks, and drinks including alcohol
– Power sockets and USB ports
– WiFi access
– Broader seats with extendable leg rests
– At seat service
Eurostar
– Three-course meals designed by renowned chefs
– Fine wines and champagne
– Givenchy amenity packs
– Unlimited WiFi access
– Reclining leather seats
– Private lounge access
East Coast
– Hot meals cooked by executive chef
– Complimentary drinks
– Power sockets
– Extra storage space
– Premium lounge access
– Travel pillow and blanket
– Complimentary newspaper
Southeastern
– At seat service
– Complimentary snacks and drinks
– Wider leather seats with tables
– Additional legroom
– Quieter environment away from standard class
How much extra does first class cost?
First class rail fares are invariably more expensive than standard tickets for the same journey. But the exact premium you’ll pay depends on the:
– Train operator
– Route
– Time/day of travel
– How far in advance you book
– Any special offers available
As a rough guide, expect to pay between 25-100% more than a standard fare to upgrade to first class. For example, here are sample first class walk-up fares compared to standard class:
Route | Standard Fare | First Class Fare | First Class Premium |
---|---|---|---|
London to Manchester (Virgin Trains) | £145 | £257 | +77% |
London to Cardiff (Great Western) | £42 | £69 | +64% |
Birmingham to Glasgow (Avanti West Coast) | £117 | £148 | +27% |
As you can see, the first class premium can represent a significant percentage increase over standard fares. Booking in advance or taking advantage of special offers can help minimize the price difference.
Is first class value for money?
Whether or not first class offers good value depends on your personal preferences and priorities:
Benefits
– More comfortable, spacious seating
– Increased legroom
– Less disturbances from other passengers
– Complimentary food/drinks
– Enhanced service
– Shorter queues when boarding
– Access to lounges
Downsides
– Significant fare premiums
– Limited availability
– Hit and miss catering quality
– Very early/late services have reduced amenities
– Less opportunity to meet fellow travelers
For most leisure travelers, the additional cost is hard to justify. But first class can be a worthwhile investment if factors like comfort, work productivity or privacy are your top concerns.
Some key occasions when first class is more likely to represent good value:
– Long distance trips (over 3+ hours)
– Overnight journeys where sleep is a priority
– Busy peak services where standard class is crowded
– When traveling with companions in first class
– If you can find a discounted fare promotion
Equally, first class is harder to justify on short, inexpensive journeys where the fare bump is proportionally higher.
Tips for getting first class train tickets cheaper
If you’ve weighed up the benefits and decided first class is right for your trip, here are some tips to help minimize the cost:
Book well in advance
First class fares get more expensive closer to departure, so book early to snag the lowest prices. Setting up alerts can help you pounce when sales are released.
Be flexible on timings
Tickets are cheaper for trains departing at off-peak times like early mornings or late evenings. Avoiding the busy commuter flows will save money.
Travel off-peak
First class tickets cost less during lower demand periods like school holidays or weekends. Fares are highest for peak weekday travel.
Take advantage of sales
Operators periodically release batches of discounted first class tickets to boost sales. Sign up for email alerts so you’re first in line.
Use railcards and loyalty schemes
Railcards like Two Together or Senior discounts also apply to first class fares, so make use of any you’re eligible for. Plus loyalty programs like Virgin Red or Great Western Rewards have first class upgrades as rewards.
Split tickets
It’s sometimes cheaper to split a journey into multiple tickets with first class portions rather than buying one complete first class through-fare.
Bid for upgrades
Some operators like Virgin and LNER allow you to bid for a first class upgrade from as little as £5 if capacity is available.
When is first class most necessary?
While first class is always more comfortable, there are certain situations where upgrading from standard is arguably more essential:
Overcrowded peak trains
Commuter trains into major cities are often packed in peak hours with standing room only. Paying extra for first class guarantees you a seat and personal space.
Long distance trips over 3+ hours
Being able to stretch out, move around, and get free refreshments makes first class more worthwhile on longer journeys like London to Edinburgh.
Overnight trains
Sleeper cabins provide beds, but if you opt for seated first class offers more room to get comfortable for overnight trips.
When traveling with colleagues
It’s easier to work productively with colleagues in first class with table areas, WiFi, and a professional service.
For privacy/confidentiality
First class offers a more private, quiet environment if you need to work, make calls, or have confidential discussions en route.
If standard class is fully booked
During busy periods standard class sells out but first class may still have availability, providing a welcome alternative.
When carrying large luggage
The extra room in first class makes it easier to maneuver and store sizable bags and suitcases.
For nervous flyers
Some people find rail travel less stressful than flying. Paying extra to travel in comfort can be worthwhile for extremely anxious flyers.
When celebrating a special occasion
It could be a honeymoon, birthday, or retirement. If you’re marking an important event, first class travel can be part of the experience.
Pros of first class train travel
Here’s a recap of some of the key advantages of first vs standard class rail:
Enhanced comfort and amenities
Wider reclining seats, extra legroom, tables, power sockets, WiFi, and included meals/drinks.
Increased privacy
More personal space plus quieter, calmer surroundings away from the crowds.
Improved productivity
With WiFi, tables, and fewer distractions you can work and study easier in first class.
Priority boarding
First class passengers can board first, giving easy access to luggage racks for bags.
Reduced stress
Being able to relax in comfort takes the headache and hassle out of train travel.
Superior service
Onboard attendants look after first class passengers’ needs throughout the journey.
Exclusive extras
Depending on the operator, enjoy lounge access, upgraded catering, and other perks.
Cons of first class train travel
However, there are also some potential disadvantages:
Significant fare premiums
First class costs considerably more than standard tickets for the same trip.
Limited availability
There are fewer first class seats that get booked up faster.
Variable catering quality
While included, some first class complimentary food offerings disappoint.
Very early/late services have reduced perks
First thing and last thing trains have fewer amenities like catering.
Potentially less social
You miss out on the chance to meet and chat with other travelers.
Can feel overindulgent
Excessive luxury could seem inappropriate depending on the journey and situation.
Admin switching tickets last minute
If plans change late, getting refunds and new first class tickets can be tricky.
Less Passenger control
You may need to depend more on attendants rather than doing things yourself.
Conclusion
For most people, traveling standard class is perfectly adequate for train journeys. But first class can be a worthwhile indulgence when you value privacy, comfort, or the ability to work and be productive onboard. On shorter domestic routes the first class premium is hard to justify. But on long distance trips or busy commuter trains, the upgrade is often money well spent if you can get a discounted fare.
To recap, first class rail tends to represent better value when:
– The journey is over 3+ hours long
– Traveling at busy peak times
– You can find a discounted advance fare
– You want privacy for work or confidentiality
– Celebrating a special occasion
– Standard class is sold out
But focus on standard tickets if:
– You’re on a tight budget
– Making a quick short hop journey
– Traveling at quiet off-peak times
– You enjoy meeting and socializing with other passengers
Ultimately there’s no one size fits all answer on whether to fork out for first class trains. Consider the length of trip, amenities offered, the savings available, and your personal preferences. Get the balance right between comfort and value for money.