Who doesn’t love an upgrade? Whether it’s a first-class flight seat, a luxury hotel suite, or a rental car upgrade, getting more for your money can make your travels extra special. While upgrades often seem reserved for elite travelers, there are plenty of ways to score them without paying extra. With the right approach, a bit of charm, and smart travel strategies, you can increase your chances of securing free upgrades.
Be Loyal to Airlines, Hotels, and Car Rental Companies
Loyalty pays off—literally. Many travel companies reward frequent customers with complimentary upgrades and perks.
- Sign Up for Loyalty Programs – Airlines, hotels, and car rental companies offer free membership programs that accumulate points and status, leading to upgrades.
- Earn Elite Status – Higher-tier members in loyalty programs often receive automatic upgrades, priority boarding, and additional perks.
- Use a Branded Credit Card – Many travel credit cards offer free upgrades, complimentary lounge access, and other valuable travel benefits.
- Stay Consistent with One Brand – Repeatedly booking with the same hotel chain or airline increases your chances of receiving special treatment and upgrades.
Book Strategically for the Best Upgrade Potential
Your booking habits can significantly impact your ability to get a free upgrade.
- Travel During Off-Peak Times – Airlines and hotels are more likely to offer upgrades when they’re not fully booked. Try flying on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and booking hotels on Sundays.
- Avoid Third-Party Booking Sites – Hotels and airlines prioritize direct bookings for upgrades. Call the hotel or airline directly and ask about upgrade availability.
- Book the Cheapest Flexible Fare – Some airlines only upgrade passengers who booked specific fare classes, so avoid the absolute lowest-tier economy tickets.
- Select a Less Popular Room Category – Booking a mid-tier room instead of the absolute cheapest increases the chances of a complimentary bump to a suite.
Ask (Nicely) for an Upgrade
Sometimes, all you need to do is ask! Being polite and strategic can go a long way in securing a better experience.
- Check-In at the Right Time – Hotels often know their upgrade availability in the late afternoon. Arriving around 4 PM increases your chances of a room bump.
- Use Special Occasions to Your Advantage – If you’re celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or birthday, mention it during check-in. Hotels and airlines may offer a complimentary upgrade as a goodwill gesture.
- Be Courteous and Friendly – A warm smile and respectful attitude can make a difference. Front desk agents and airline staff are more likely to help travelers who are kind and appreciative.
- Ask About Available Upgrades – Simply saying, “Do you have any complimentary upgrades available?” can open the door to perks. Even if they can’t upgrade for free, they might offer a discount.
Take Advantage of Last-Minute Upgrade Offers
If a free upgrade isn’t available, you can still find ways to score a better experience without breaking the bank.
- Check for Upgrade Offers at Check-In – Many airlines and hotels offer deeply discounted upgrades at the last minute if they have empty premium seats or suites.
- Use Travel Apps – Some hotel chains offer upgrade options through their apps at lower-than-standard rates.
- Volunteer for an Overbooked Flight – If an airline needs passengers to switch flights due to overbooking, they often offer travel vouchers, upgrades, or even cash compensation.
- Bid for an Upgrade – Some airlines, like Emirates and Virgin Atlantic, allow passengers to bid on premium upgrades for a fraction of the original cost.
Leverage Social Media and Reviews for Perks
Hotels and airlines pay attention to their online reputation, and a little social media influence can sometimes lead to special treatment.
- Engage with Brands on Social Media – Tagging a hotel or airline in a positive post before your trip can sometimes lead to surprise perks.
- Leave Reviews on Travel Websites – If you’ve stayed at a property before and left a great review, mentioning it at check-in can remind them of your loyalty and increase your upgrade chances.
- Use Twitter for Customer Service – If you experience an issue with your booking, reaching out to airlines or hotels via Twitter can lead to fast resolutions, including potential upgrades.
Travel Like a Pro and Maximize Your Experience
Upgrades aren’t guaranteed, but using these strategies can significantly increase your chances of getting one. Being loyal, booking smart, asking politely, and taking advantage of last-minute opportunities all contribute to a better travel experience. Whether you’re flying, staying at a hotel, or renting a car, these hacks can help you enjoy a little extra luxury on your journey—without spending extra.
