From receiving a complimentary toiletry bag on an Air New Zealand business-class flight to free earbuds on a United economy flight, take a look at all the differences in amenities.
In 2022, I embarked on my first business-class flight between Los Angeles and Auckland, New Zealand. I quickly learned the perks of a business-class ticket started long before I boarded the plane.
The check-in desk for Air New Zealand.
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When it came to my United economy flight between Denver and Tokyo, checking in looked drastically different. I used a self-check-in computer and waited in a much longer line for bag dropoffs.
The author’s setup in the airport lounge.
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My economy ticket didn’t grant me access to a lounge, so I headed to my boarding gate instead.
Business Insider’s author entered a nearly empty jet bridge when she boarded the Air New Zealand flight.
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The opposite was true with economy. For my United flight, I was one of the last passengers to board the plane.
The author’s business-class seat.
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There was a footrest, which also served as additional seating if I wanted to chat with another passenger.
Air New Zealand business-class passengers are given a water bottle.
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A complimentary toiletry bag full of goodies like lotion, mouthwash, and socks was waiting for me at my business-class seat.
Earbuds passengers received while seated in United’s economy cabin.
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Both seats had entertainment, but the screens were different. In business class, my screen measured 11 inches and could be moved depending on how I was seated.
The author’s legs bumped against the seat in front of her.
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It was a similar case with the tray tables. In business class, I fit both food and my laptop on the large tray table.
The tray table in economy.
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Both airlines offered bedding, but it was far more luxurious in business class.
After dinner, flight attendants stopped at each seat to convert it into a bed.
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In economy on United, passengers received a blanket and travel pillow — both of which I thought weren’t nearly as cozy as the business-class offerings.
The author received a steamed towel while seated in business class.
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And liquor was complimentary.
The veggie meal and glass of wine on a United economy flight.
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Both seats offered snacks, but in business class, I could order an unlimited amount.
