I finally got the chance to experience United’s First Class on an international flight last year, and honestly, it was one of the most relaxing travel experiences I’ve ever had. I was flying from San Francisco to London for a work trip, and after a few hectic months of travel delays and cancellations, I decided to treat myself and use my flight credits for an upgrade. It turned out to be one of the best travel decisions I’ve made.
From check-in to landing, everything felt smoother. At the airport, there was a dedicated First Class counter, so I didn’t have to stand in long lines. Boarding was also quick and stress-free, and once I settled into my seat, I immediately noticed the difference. The seat was huge — it reclined fully into a flat bed, complete with a blanket, pillow, and even a small mattress pad. The cabin was quiet, and the crew was incredibly attentive without being intrusive.
The meal service was another highlight. They offered a multi-course dinner with real glassware and cutlery, and the quality of the food was far beyond what I expected from airplane dining. Midway through the flight, I could order snacks or drinks whenever I wanted, and I actually managed to get a full night’s sleep before landing.
I also appreciated how flexible United was when I had to shift my return date due to a meeting change. I was able to modify my booking easily without any major hassle. Overall, United’s international First Class felt like a perfect mix of comfort and convenience — definitely worth considering if you have a long-haul trip coming up or travel credits to use.
