- Mr Plane Guy
- Apr 10, 2025
- 8 min read
Updated: Feb 7
TUI Dreamliner Premium Cabin, Is It Worth the Upgrade?
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my travel blog and allows me to continue creating useful content. Thank you for your support!
Flying long-haul can be exhausting, but with TUI Dreamliner Premium, your journey becomes part of the holiday itself. If you’re wondering whether the upgrade is worth it, let’s dive into the perks of TUI Premium Club and TUI Premium Economy, so you can decide if the extra cost is justified.
TUI Premium Club, Luxury from the Start
Upgrading to TUI Premium Club gives you access to an array of exclusive benefits designed to make your flight as comfortable and stress-free as possible. From priority check-in to llounge access, you’ll be treated to a premium experience before you even step on the plane.
Priority Services: Less Waiting, More Relaxing
One of the best things about TUI premium seats is the priority services. This means:
Priority check-in – Skip the long queues at the airport.
Fast-track security – Get through UK airport security in no time.
Priority boarding – Settle into your seat before the rest of the passengers.
Priority baggage handling – Your suitcase will be among the first on the carousel.
These perks save you time and stress, making your journey smoother from start to finish.
Lounge Access: Start Your Holiday in Style
Flying TUI premium class means access to exclusive airport lounges in UK and Irish airports, with
Complimentary drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
Tasty snacks to keep you going
Wi-Fi to catch up on emails or browse before your flight
Comfortable seating to unwind before takeoff
If you love starting your holiday with a touch of luxury, this alone might make the upgrade worthwhile.
If you're flying TUI Premium from Manchester you should get access to 1903 Lounge Manchester Airport, here is my full honest review. Flying from Gatwick? It's normally No1 lounge London Gatwick North terminal, here is a full review.
Priority Pass is the world's largest independent airport VIP lounge access program, With my reader discount, Priority Pass membership starts from £48 per year, and visits can work out from around £24 each. That’s where the maths changes.
If you fly 2–5 times a year, Standard Plus (10 included visits) is usually the best value.
You get:
10 lounge visits included
Access to Clubrooms, No1, Aspire & more
Guest access at the member rate
If you travel as a couple, those 10 visits disappear quickly and suddenly paying £48 at the door doesn’t make much sense. Most of my Gatwick readers choose Standard Plus.
Cancel anytime. No airline ticket required.
TUI Premium Economy, More Space, More Comfort
For those flying long-haul, legroom and seat comfort can make or break your experience. TUI premium economy is designed to give you extra space, better service, and a more enjoyable journey.
More Legroom & Comfort
The TUI Dreamliner premium seats come with a generous seat pitch:
36” seat pitch (on most flights)
38” seat pitch (on the Dreamliner)
Wider ergonomic seats for extra comfort
Footrests and adjustable headrests for better posture and relaxation
This makes a big difference, especially on flights over 6 hours. If you’ve ever felt cramped in standard economy, you’ll love the extra breathing room in TUI premium seats.
In-Flight Dining – A Step Above Economy
A long flight is much more enjoyable with delicious food. TUI premium class passengers are treated to an enhanced dining experience, including:
A four-course meal with a choice of main dish (where available)
Tea, coffee, and liqueurs after your meal
A lighter meal before landing to keep you satisfied
The menu varies, but you can expect a significant upgrade from standard economy meals.
Here's what was offered in economy on my last TUI 787 flight,
Complimentary Drinks, Cheers to That!
No need to keep reaching for your wallet TUI premium flights offer free drinks throughout the journey, including:
Soft drinks & juices
Beer & wine
Spirits (excluding Champagne and Prosecco)
Unlimited tea & coffee
This is a great perk, especially on longer flights where staying hydrated (or enjoying a few drinks) makes the trip more pleasant.
In-Flight Entertainment & Extra Perks
TUI ensures you stay entertained and comfortable throughout the flight. TUI premium economy includes:
Seatback entertainment systems with movies, TV shows, and games
Noise-reducing headphones for an immersive experience
A Rituals® amenity kit with luxury toiletries
Pillow and duvet on night flights for a better sleep
These little extras make a long-haul journey much more comfortable, helping you arrive at your destination refreshed and ready to go.
Frequently Asked Questions About TUI Premium
Do You Get Free Drinks on TUI Premium?
Yes! TUI premium flights include complimentary soft drinks, juices, beer, wine, and spirits (except Champagne and Prosecco). Tea and coffee are also available throughout the flight.
Do You Get Better Food in TUI Premium Economy?
Definitely! TUI premium class passengers enjoy a four-course meal, plus a lighter meal before landing. The quality and selection are much better than standard economy.
Do You Get Lounge Access with TUI Premium?
Yes! TUI premium passengers have access to airport lounges in UK and Irish airports, offering complimentary drinks, snacks, and Wi-Fi.
Where is the Best Place to Sit in TUI Premium Economy?
If you want maximum legroom, the exit row seats are a great choice. However, with a 36” or 38” seat pitch, all TUI premium seats offer extra comfort compared to economy.
What is the Dress Code for TUI Premium?
There’s no strict dress code, but it’s best to dress comfortably for long flights. Consider layering so you can adjust to the cabin temperature.
Do You Get Priority Boarding with TUI Premium Economy?
Yes! TUI premium passengers get priority boarding, so you can get settled before the general boarding process begins.
How Wide Are TUI Premium Seats?
TUI premium seats are wider than standard economy seats and designed for comfort, with adjustable headrests and footrests to support your posture.
Final Plane Verdict, Is TUI Dreamliner Premium Worth It?
If you enjoy extra comfort, priority services, better food, and free drinks, then upgrading to TUI Dreamliner premium is definitely worth considering. Whether you go for TUI premium economy or indulge in TUI premium club, you’ll get a superior flying experience that makes your journey part of the adventure.
If you’re flying long-haul with TUI flights, the upgrade can make all the difference. So, if you have the budget for it, sit back, relax, and enjoy the premium perks!
Read these Premium Economy Flight Reviews next,
Don’t Forget About TUI Hand Luggage!
Before you pack, check TUI hand luggage allowances to avoid any last-minute surprises. Each TUI premium passenger is usually allowed a larger cabin bag and an additional personal item, making it even more convenient for travellers.
TUI Luggage Allowance Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Cabin Bag for TUI flights
Size: Maximum dimensions of 55 x 40 x 20 cm.
Weight: Up to 10kg.
Additional Item: You can bring a small personal item, such as a handbag or laptop bag, that fits under the seat in front of you.
For families travelling with infants under 2 years old, you're entitled to 10kg of hand luggage plus an extra baby changing bag of similar dimensions.
Top Tip: The Cabin Max Anode 40L is perfect for TUI's hand luggage allowance. Lightweight and compact and the perfect dimensions, Check it out here.
The Cabin Max Anode 40L Cabin Suitcase is 55 x 40 x 20 cm the exact requirements for TUI.
I've been using the Cabin Max Anode for over a year and it's the perfect fit for TUI carry on luggage item, it is so well made and great value. Check out all the different colours it comes in!
It is so lightweight, it has 360 spinning wheels so I can push or pull it around the airport and place my small under-seat bag on top of it.
A Personal under-seat bag that fits under the seat is also allowed as part of your onboard cabin luggage with TUI airlines, but it should measure no larger than
40 x 30 x 20 cm.
Cabin Max METZ 20L Under Seat Bag (40 x 20 x 25 cm) is perfect for TUI economy personal bag size requirements
TUI Checked Baggage Allowance
When flying with TUI Airways as part of a package holiday, your checked luggage allowance varies based on your booking type:
Standard Package Holidays: Includes 20kg of checked luggage per adult or child.
Packages with TUI Airways: Bookings with TUI Airlines include a generous 25kg of checked luggage per adult or child. This applies to long-haul, short-haul, and mid-haul flights with TUI Airlines as part of a TUI holiday.
Infants under 2 years: Receive 10kg of checked luggage.
Wedding Packages: Couples booking wedding packages also receive 25kg of checked luggage each.
Top Tip: Use an Apple AirTag in your checked luggage to track its location. Find more details about this Here.
Baggage for Long-Haul and TUI Dreamliner Flights
Flying long-haul with TUI is a treat, especially aboard their state-of-the-art Dreamliner 787. Here’s what you need to know about luggage:
TUI Long-Haul Flights: Include 25kg of checked luggage per person when booked as part of a TUI Airlines package holiday.
TUI Dreamliner Comfort: The Dreamliner offers added comfort, enhanced in-flight entertainment, and quieter cabins. Read my full review of the Dreamliner experience here.
Plane Related Links
Is this the BEST Airport Lounges at London Gatwick South Terminal
Trip Report on the Dreamliner! TUI Airways Boeing 787-9 London Gatwick to Aruba: Tui Airways Flight Review on long haul
Is the Aspire Lounge in Manchester Airport Terminal 1 Worth the Visit? A Detailed Review
If you’re flying from Terminal 2, this is the lounge I always recommend → 1903 Lounge Manchester review
Would you upgrade to TUI premium class on your next flight? Let me know in the comments..............
About Me
a former airline insider who’s swapped the jump seat for the window seat. I share honest reviews, travel hacks, and a few behind-the-scenes stories.
Sign up for my Plane News This Week newsletter for the latest airline updates, flight deals, and my brutally honest travel takes.
Thanks for reading, TUI Dreamliner Premium Cabin, Is It Worth the Upgrade? Do let me know in the comments........
Plane Extras
The PLANE Smart Way to Take Off
Here are my go-to travel extras that help keep this blog (and me) airborne.
🅿️ Airport Parking Compare prices and save up to 75% at Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester and more with Compare Parking Prices UK →
🍸 Lounge Access Why wait at the gate when you could sip a pre-flight prosecco?
Get 30 % off a Priority Pass membership → and access 1,700+ lounges worldwide.
🌍Travel Insurance Don’t fly without cover. Coverwise (by AXA) offers annual European cover from £10.20, including medical consultations and pre-existing conditions.
🎒 Plane Essentials My must-pack travel gear, from cabin-size backpacks to neck pillows that actually work. Shop my curated Amazon Storefront →
📱Stay Connected Avoid roaming shock. Arlo eSIMs → give you instant data in 180+ destinations, no SIM swap required.
💳 Boost Your Avios Earn faster and fly farther with my Amex Gold referral → or track reward seats via Reward Flight Finder →.
TUI Dreamliner Premium Cabin, Is It Worth the Upgrade? Do let me know in the comments........
Comments