Flight attendants explain the best way to get cheap first class tickets

First class tickets can be more expensive than the holiday itself so many of us swerve away from the idea all together.

But what if I told you that there's some 'secret' ways you could get cheaper tickets, without breaking the bank.

A group of flight attendants have been sharing their unique tips on how to pick up less expensive tickets, and it's not by paying for an upgrade at the gate.

Taking to the private 'Gals Who Travel' Facebook group, one member reportedly asked: "What's the best way to fly first class?

"Is it always better to bump it at the counter?

"I feel like buying it outright isn't the smartest.

"Just did my first couple first class flights and I wanna stay here now so I want to be smart and not pay more if I don't have to."

Their post was met by a response from a flight attendant who offered the passenger two potential ways they might be able to save a few quid.

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Firstly, you could save money when buying a ticket well in advance - before the prices start going up.

The on-board staff member also says that upgrading on the day is usually more expensive.

Secondly, if you start to rack up those frequent flyer points, you'll be able to get first class tickets at a better rate.

Don't worry if you don't fly too often as the attendant explains that you can still pick up points from the airlines who often have partnerships with certain restaurants and hotels.

Also, everyday groceries, petrol and bills can sometimes tally up that points total, depending on the provider.

"If you have an airline that you favour most, look into joining their rewards program and possibly signing up for their credit card," the attendant explains.

"A lot of airlines tend to give a lump sum of points just for applying and making qualifying purchases within the first months of the account opening."

imageBROKER / Alamy Stock Photo

They also recommend that if passengers know a crew member personally that they could get a discounted flight journey.

However, there also happens to be a bit of a catch.

"It most likely will not be a confirmed seat. Usually you would pay a small fee to be placed on a space available standby list," she wrote.

"Depending on the airline and the position of your friend (flight attendant, pilot, gate agent, ground ops, etc) your priority on said list may vary.

"They could probably purchase a confirmed seat for you with their discount if the airline allows that."