Business class too pricey? Try Premium Economy

Courtesy of Qantas Airways

Premium economy on a Qantas A380 provides more elbow room and more room to kick back.

By Darren Booth, Special to CNBC.com

The advent of lie-flat seating in business class is probably the top airline development of recent years, but another trend is quickly rising in popularity: premium economy.

Many international carriers now offer a dedicated cabin more luxurious than economy and at a price significantly more affordable than business class. It's a great option to consider when traveling overseas, as the relative comfort the cabins provide can mean the difference between arriving jetlagged and sour to passing through immigration and customs refreshed and ready to start your day.

Each airline offering a premium economy cabin provides similar amenities, including:

A dedicated check-in line and priority boarding.
Free checked baggage allowances.
Larger, more comfortable seats with enhanced legroom and adjustable headrests.
An amenity kit with earplugs, toothbrush, toothpaste, socks and an eye mask.
Complimentary newspapers and bar service.
Enhanced meal choices often served on fine china.
On-demand personal video entertainment featuring television programming, movies, games, audio books and music.
Power outlets for laptops and mobile devices.

Among the airlines offering a separate premium economy cabin internationally are:

Air New Zealand
British Airways
Virgin Atlantic
Air France
Cathay Pacific
Qantas
Thai Airways
Virgin Australia

Here's what you can expect to pay for premium economy on a sampling of carriers for a weeklong trip in May 2012 (fares are roundtrip, include all taxes, and were current as of the date researched):