Getting a flight upgrade to business or first class isn’t always dumb luck. It isn’t exclusive to elite frequent fliers either. There are many easy things you can do to help yourself get the bump up:
Increase your chance of an upgrade on your next flight with the below tips
- Dress nicely
- Ask
- Book flights with less available seats
- Fly the same airlines
- Don’t order a special meal
Start with your Clothes
Airline travel retains some old-school habits. If you’re a paying customer you’re more than welcome to wear your yoga pants and sweatshirt, but for standbys and wanna-be upgraders, a dress code very much applies.
This doesn’t necessarily mean you need to wear a suit and tie (although it can’t hurt), but it definitely means to leave your flip flops and sweats at home. It’s one of the first things an airline employee is going to take into account when you ask for an upgrade and it’s part of their job to scrutinize your appearance. People have been known to be upgraded without even asking, based solely on their level of dress.
Ask (but don’t be annoying)
Asking politely for a free upgrade might sound obvious, but many people don’t even know free upgrades are a possibility. It’s likely you may be the only person to ask. So whether the gate agent is feeling extra generous that day, or they need to bump people up because they oversold coach, you’ll be the easy option.
There is more to this than simply asking the gate agent “May I please be upgraded?”. Make sure you arrive at the gate early so they’re not hustling to get ready for boarding. If there’s a line of people waiting to speak with them it’s best to hold off for a little.
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Wait until the agents look like they have a moment to breathe. Then ask them simply and directly if a free upgrade might be an option. If you have a good reason (on your honeymoon? just had knee surgery?) feel free to mention it- don’t underestimate simple human kindness.
Book a Fuller Flight
The lower the number of people on your flight the lower your chance of scoring an upgrade. Seat maps are usually available upon selecting a flight, so try to book a flight that shows fewer seats available. The more likely it is for economy class to be oversold the more likely you are to get a free upgrade.
Fly the Same Airlines
Signing up for frequent flier programs is easy and choosing to fly primarily with one or two airlines is usually doable. You don’t need to gain elite status for this to be beneficial. Members of the airline’s frequent flier program will always have a leg up on non-members.
Don’t Order a Special Meal
If you really care about getting a free upgrade this is a surefire way to prevent it. Extra work goes into providing special meals to customers and if you switch your cabin class it adds another level of annoyance to the process.
Agents who are looking for passengers to upgrade will skip right over you if a special meal is listed next to your name. If you truly need a special meal but want to be considered for a free upgrade, consider packing your own lunch.
Have you uncovered any secret tips to help get free upgrades on flights? Let us know!
