I spent $500 on a cross-country red-eye flight in Delta's basic economy. I'm glad I didn't upgrade to a premium class.

I spent $500 on a cross-country red-eye flight in Delta's basic economy. I'm glad I didn't upgrade to a premium class.

Business Insider's reporter flew from San Francisco to NYC in Delta's basic economy.Joey Hadden/Business InsiderI took a red-eye flight from San Francisco to New York in February 2026.I booked a basic economy ticket with Delta Air Lines for $500.My seat was comfortable enough to sleep in, and I'm glad I didn't splurge for an upgrade.I don't want to waste a whole day on air travel. So when I have to take a long flight or lose hours due to time zo…