Lufthansa Premium Economy Reviewed
Ikhsan Rizki
Photo: Is Lufthansa Premium Economy worth it? Our review dives into seats, service & value to help you decide if this upgrade is right for your long-haul flight.
Lufthansa Premium Economy Reviewed: Is the Upgrade Truly Worth It for Your Next Flight?
Planning a long-haul flight can be daunting, especially when you're trying to balance comfort with cost. You've likely seen the various cabin classes, from basic Economy to luxurious First Class, but what about that intriguing middle ground: Premium Economy? Specifically, if you're flying with Germany's flag carrier, you might be asking: "Is Lufthansa Premium Economy reviewed favorably, and will it truly enhance my travel experience without breaking the bank?"
This comprehensive guide is designed to help you navigate the nuances of Lufthansa's Premium Economy offering. We'll dive deep into what you can expect, from the moment you check in to your arrival at your destination, helping you decide if this popular upgrade is the smart choice for your next journey.
What is Lufthansa Premium Economy?
Lufthansa's Premium Economy cabin is positioned as a significant step up from standard Economy, offering a more comfortable and relaxed journey without the hefty price tag of Business Class. It's designed for travelers who desire more personal space, enhanced amenities, and a generally more pleasant flying experience, especially on longer flights. Think of it as the sweet spot for value-conscious travelers seeking an elevated level of comfort.
Key Features at a Glance:
- More Space: Wider seats and significantly increased legroom.
- Enhanced Service: Improved meal service and dedicated amenities.
- Increased Baggage: Generous allowance for checked luggage.
- Comfort Amenities: Thoughtful additions for a more restful flight.
The Seat Experience: Your Home in the Sky
When considering any cabin upgrade, the seat itself is paramount. So, what's it like to settle into a Lufthansa Premium Economy seat?
Lufthansa's Premium Economy seats are a definite highlight. They are noticeably wider than standard Economy seats, typically offering around 38 inches of pitch (the space between your seat and the one in front) and a greater recline angle. This extra room isn't just about legroom; it allows for more personal space, reducing that cramped feeling often associated with economy travel.
Each seat comes equipped with its own armrest, providing a clear boundary between you and your neighbor, and often features a footrest or leg rest for added comfort. You'll also find a personal entertainment screen, a power outlet (both USB and universal), and ample storage pockets for your personal items. This thoughtful design means you can stretch out, work, or relax without feeling encroached upon.
In-Flight Amenities: Beyond the Basics
Beyond the seat itself, the in-flight amenities contribute significantly to the overall Lufthansa Premium Economy experience.
Elevated Dining
One of the pleasant surprises in Lufthansa Premium Economy is the enhanced meal service. While still served on trays, the quality and presentation are a step above standard Economy. You'll typically receive a menu card and be offered a choice of main courses, often served on porcelain dishes. The beverage selection is also more extensive, including complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. This small upgrade in dining can make a long flight feel much more civilized.
Entertainment and Comfort Kits
Every Premium Economy seat boasts a larger personal entertainment screen than those found in Economy, offering a wide selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games. High-quality noise-reducing headphones are usually provided, ensuring you can fully immerse yourself in your chosen entertainment.
To further enhance your comfort, Lufthansa provides a small amenity kit, which typically includes essentials like a refreshing towel, earplugs, an eye mask, and sometimes a toothbrush and toothpaste. A comfortable pillow and a soft blanket are also standard, helping you get some much-needed rest during your journey.
Ground Experience: Starting Your Journey Right
The Lufthansa Premium Economy benefits extend beyond the aircraft cabin, offering a smoother experience even before you board.
Generous Baggage Allowance
Travelers in Lufthansa Premium Economy generally enjoy a more generous baggage allowance. Typically, you're permitted to check two pieces of luggage, each weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs), which is double the allowance for standard Economy fares on many routes. This can be a significant advantage, especially for longer trips or if you're traveling with extra gear.
Priority Boarding and Check-in
While not as comprehensive as Business Class, Premium Economy passengers often benefit from dedicated check-in counters at some airports, helping to reduce wait times. You'll also typically be among the first groups to board the aircraft, allowing you to settle in and store your carry-on luggage with ease before the rush.
Is Lufthansa Premium Economy Worth the Upgrade? A Cost-Benefit Analysis
This is the million-dollar question for many travelers: Is the Lufthansa Premium Economy cost justified? The answer largely depends on your individual priorities, the length of your flight, and the price difference.
- Flight Duration: For short-haul flights (under 4-5 hours), the benefits might not fully justify the extra cost. However, for long-haul routes (especially overnight flights), the increased space, recline, and improved amenities can make a world of difference in arriving feeling refreshed rather than exhausted.
- Budget: Naturally, Premium Economy sits between Economy and Business Class in terms of price. If the jump from Economy is minimal, it's often a no-brainer. If it's closer to Business Class fares, you might want to evaluate if the extra comfort is worth that specific premium.
- Personal Comfort Needs: Do you struggle to sleep on planes? Do you need space to work? Do you value a better meal? If so, the added comfort and features of Premium Economy will likely be highly appreciated.
- Comparing to Alternatives: When you compare Lufthansa Premium Economy vs Economy, the difference in comfort is substantial. When comparing Lufthansa Premium Economy vs Business, you're sacrificing lie-flat seats and full lounge access, but gaining significant comfort over Economy at a much lower price point than Business.
Ultimately, for many travelers, Lufthansa Premium Economy strikes an excellent balance between comfort and cost, offering a significantly improved travel experience without the premium price tag of a full Business Class ticket.
Tips for Booking Lufthansa Premium Economy
Ready to experience the upgrade? Here are a few tips to help you secure the best deals on Lufthansa Premium Economy:
- Book in Advance: Like most airfares, booking your Premium Economy ticket well in advance often yields better prices.
- Be Flexible with Dates: If your travel dates are flexible, use Lufthansa's low-fare calendar to find the cheapest days to fly.
- Look for Sales: Keep an eye out for Lufthansa's promotional sales, which can sometimes include discounted Premium Economy fares.
- Consider Upgrading: If you've booked an Economy ticket, check for upgrade offers closer to your departure date. Sometimes, airlines offer attractive upgrade deals if Premium Economy seats are available.
Conclusion
Based on our comprehensive Lufthansa Premium Economy reviewed analysis, it's clear that this cabin class offers a compelling proposition for travelers seeking a more comfortable and enjoyable flight experience without the full expense of Business Class. From the spacious seats and enhanced amenities to the improved ground experience, Lufthansa Premium Economy truly bridges the gap, making long-haul travel more bearable and even enjoyable.
Have you flown Lufthansa Premium Economy? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below! Or, if you're looking for more ways to enhance your travel, explore our other articles on maximizing airline loyalty programs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is Lufthansa Premium Economy the same as Business Class?
No, Lufthansa Premium Economy is not the same as Business Class. While it offers significant upgrades over Economy, such as wider seats, more legroom, and enhanced dining, it does not include lie-flat beds, extensive lounge access, or the full range of services found in Business Class.
Q2: What is the baggage allowance for Lufthansa Premium Economy?
Typically, Lufthansa Premium Economy passengers are allowed to check two pieces of luggage, with each bag weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs). This is generally double the allowance of standard Economy fares.
Q3: Do Lufthansa Premium Economy passengers get lounge access?
Generally, lounge access is not included with a standard Lufthansa Premium Economy ticket. However, if you have elite status with Lufthansa's Miles & More program or Star Alliance, you may be eligible for lounge access based on your status, regardless of your cabin class.
Q4: How much more expensive is Lufthansa Premium Economy than Economy?
The price difference between Lufthansa Premium Economy and Economy can vary significantly based on the route, demand, time of booking, and specific fare class. It can range from a modest increase to a substantial premium, but it is always considerably less expensive than Business Class. It's best to compare prices for your specific travel dates.