Insider tips for securing an upgrade
Once upon a time, showing up to the check-in desk with a nice suit and charming manner was enough to get you into a suite or bumped up to business class. Not any more. Upgrades are the most hotly contested battleground of the travel world and, with shrinking bottom lines, companies are becoming more unwilling to give them away for free. Here are a few ways you can increase your chances.
Join a loyalty program
Especially one where you can accrue points through everyday spending, such as using a credit card. You may be able to redeem these points for a better room or a seat upgrade, or if you have reached one of the top tiers the check in staff might allocate you a spare spot. Many airline programs also offer airport lounge access to their top tier members, so you can indulge a little before you get onboard.
Be loyal
Whether it’s to an airline or a hotel chain, loyalty pays off in terms of points and recognition. If you travel frequently, you may get to recognise the staff and they will be more willing to do you a favour if the opportunity arises.
Don’t book the cheapest fare
We hate to say it, but if you book the absolute lowest, super saver, budget fare, there’s no way you’re getting an upgrade. You don’t necessarily need to pay the full fare, but go for one of the less restrictive (and more expensive) options.
Bid for it
Some airlines are introducing programs whereby passengers can enter a maximum amount they would be willing to pay for an upgrade and enter a silent auction against other passengers. If you wouldn’t mind spending an extra couple of hundred dollars for the experience, then it’s worth registering. You won’t pay any more money than you want to and you might get lucky.
Check in late
This one is a bit of a gamble, but if you are one of the last to check in for your flight or you arrive later in the evening at your hotel there’s a chance you could be moved. Flights are frequently overbooked so the staff may move you up the front rather than reschedule you for a later flight. At the hotel, you are unlikely to get an upgrade early in the day as there is the possibility the suite will sell. By the evening, staff will have a better idea of what is left and could be feeling generous.