When booking flights, many Filipino travellers ask the same question: is premium economy worth it compared to regular economy? If you often fly long-haul to places like the US, Europe, or Australia, this decision can make a big difference in your comfort, budget, and overall travel experience. Let’s break it down in simple terms so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
✈️ Seat Space and Comfort
Economy Class
- Standard legroom, usually around 30–32 inches.
- Seats are narrower, which can feel cramped on flights longer than 6 hours.
- Recline is limited, so sleeping on overnight flights can be tough.
Premium Economy
- Extra legroom, around 34–38 inches, giving you more space to stretch.
- Wider seats with better cushioning.
- Recline is deeper, and some airlines provide footrests for added comfort.
- Feels less crowded since the cabin is smaller.
For Filipinos flying long hours to the Middle East, Europe, or North America, premium economy can help you arrive more rested.
🍱 Meals and Drinks
Economy Class
- Standard meals served with basic drinks.
- Food quality depends on the airline, usually one or two choices only.
Premium Economy
- Upgraded meals, sometimes closer to business class quality.
- More drink options, including wine or cocktails on some airlines.
- Meals are often served with real cutlery instead of plastic.
If you value food variety during long flights, premium economy offers a noticeable upgrade.
🎬 Entertainment and Extras
Economy Class
- Small screen with standard movies and TV shows.
- Basic headphones provided.
Premium Economy
- Larger screens with better resolution.
- Noise-cancelling headphones on some airlines.
- More selection of movies, music, and TV shows.
Filipino travellers who enjoy binge-watching K-dramas, Hollywood movies, or local films will definitely see the difference.
🎒 Baggage Allowance for Filipino Travelers
When it comes to flights, baggage allowance is one of the biggest concerns for Filipinos. This is especially true if you are bringing pasalubong or planning to shop abroad. Economy usually gives you the basics, while Premium Economy often adds more weight, extra bags, and convenience perks.
✈️ Economy vs Premium Economy Overview
Airline (Philippines Routes) | Economy Class Allowance | Premium Economy Allowance | Extra Perks |
|---|---|---|---|
Philippine Airlines (PAL) | 1 check-in bag (20–25kg depending on route) + 7kg carry-on | 2 check-in bags (23kg each) + 7kg carry-on | Priority check-in and boarding on some routes |
Cebu Pacific | 7kg carry-on only (check-in baggage must be purchased separately, usually 20–32kg per piece) | No Premium Economy | Add-ons available (priority boarding, extra legroom) |
AirAsia Philippines | 7kg carry-on only (check-in baggage purchased separately, 20–40kg options) | No Premium Economy | Upgrade options for Hot Seats and priority services |
Singapore Airlines (popular for Filipinos to SG/Europe) | 25kg check-in + 7kg carry-on | 35kg check-in + 2×7kg carry-on | Priority boarding, better seat comfort |
Cathay Pacific (Manila/HK routes) | 30kg check-in + 7kg carry-on | 35kg check-in + 2×7kg carry-on | Extra baggage flexibility, wider seats |
Japan Airlines (JAL) | 2×23kg check-in + 10kg carry-on | 2×23kg check-in (sometimes 3×23kg on promos) + 10kg carry-on | Priority check-in, boarding, and more legroom |
Emirates (for Dubai & Middle East) | 25kg check-in + 7kg carry-on | 35kg check-in + 7kg carry-on | Priority services, wider seat pitch |
💰 Price Difference
Premium Economy is not as cheap as Economy, but it is still far from the high price of Business Class. On average, tickets cost about 50% to 70% more than Economy, depending on the route and season.
To give you an idea:
Route | Economy | Premium Economy | Business Class |
|---|---|---|---|
Manila – London | ₱45,000–₱50,000 | ₱65,000–₱75,000 | ₱150,000+ |
Manila – Tokyo | ₱18,000–₱22,000 | ₱28,000–₱32,000 | ₱70,000+ |
Manila – Los Angeles | ₱40,000–₱48,000 | ₱60,000–₱70,000 | ₱140,000+ |
Manila – Sydney | ₱30,000–₱35,000 | ₱45,000–₱55,000 | ₱110,000+ |
👉 These are sample prices from airlines like Philippine Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, and Japan Airlines. Prices go up during peak seasons like Christmas, Holy Week, and summer.
Why Filipinos Choose Premium Economy
- Comfort on long flights: Manila to Europe or the US can take 12 to 15 hours. Wider seats, more legroom, and better recline help you rest.
- Extra baggage: Perfect if you’re bringing pasalubong or shopping abroad.
- Perks without breaking the bank: It feels like a middle ground. Not too cramped like Economy and not as expensive as Business.
✅ Choose Economy Class or Premium Economy
Situation | Better Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
Short flights (under 5 hours) | Economy Class | The comfort difference is small and you save money. |
Long flights (8 hours or more) | Premium Economy | Wider seats, more recline, and better rest for long trips. |
Light packing, no shopping or gifts | Economy Class | Standard baggage allowance is usually enough. |
Extra baggage for shopping or gifts | Premium Economy | Includes bigger baggage allowance, sometimes two check-in bags. |
Traveling on a budget | Economy Class | Cheapest fare option, best if price is the main concern. |
Flying for work or a special family trip | Premium Economy | Extra comfort, priority check-in, and you arrive fresher for important events. |
✅ Quick Tips for Filipino Travellers
- Book early: Premium Economy seats are limited and usually sell out faster than Economy.
- Check promos: Airlines sometimes run upgrade deals that let you enjoy Premium Economy at a lower price.
- Compare airlines: Not all Premium Economy seats are the same. Some airlines give more perks, extra baggage, or better meals than others.
- Use credit card points or miles: Many Filipino travellers use KrisFlyer, Mabuhay Miles, or Asia Miles. These can be redeemed for Premium Economy upgrades.
- Travel off-peak: Flying during off-season months like February or September often makes Premium Economy fares much cheaper.
❓ FAQs: Economy vs Premium Economy
Is Premium Economy worth it for Filipinos?
Yes, especially for long flights over 8 hours. You get more comfort, extra baggage, and better meals without paying the very high price of Business Class.Do all airlines flying from the Philippines have Premium Economy?
No. Philippine Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Japan Airlines, and Emirates offer Premium Economy on select routes. Cebu Pacific and AirAsia do not have Premium Economy.What is the biggest difference between Economy and Premium Economy?
Bigger seats, more legroom, extra baggage allowance, upgraded meals, and sometimes priority check-in or boarding.Can I use miles or points to upgrade from Economy to Premium Economy?
Yes, many airlines allow this. Programs like KrisFlyer, Mabuhay Miles, and Asia Miles often have upgrade options for Premium Economy.Do I get more baggage allowance in Premium Economy?
Yes. Most airlines include extra baggage in Premium Economy. For example, you may get two check-in bags at 23kg each instead of just one in Economy. This is very helpful if you are bringing balikbayan boxes or pasalubong.