How To Score Upgrades on Your Travel

Scoring an upgrade, whether it’s for a flight, hotel, or car rental, can significantly enhance your travel experience. Upgrades can provide added comfort, luxury, and convenience, often at little to no additional cost. Here are some strategies to help you secure that coveted upgrade.

Join Loyalty Programs

One of the most effective ways to score upgrades is by joining loyalty programs offered by airlines, hotels, and car rental companies. These programs reward frequent travelers with points or miles that can be redeemed for upgrades and other perks. The more you travel with a particular company, the higher your status becomes, increasing your chances of receiving complimentary upgrades. For example, airlines often prioritize upgrades for their elite members, so building up your loyalty status can pay off.

Book Directly with the Provider

Booking directly through the airline, hotel, or car rental company’s website can improve your chances of getting an upgrade. Providers often prioritize direct bookings over those made through third-party websites because they don’t have to pay commissions. Additionally, booking directly can make you eligible for loyalty program benefits, which can include upgrades.

Travel During Off-Peak Times

Traveling during off-peak times increases your chances of scoring an upgrade. Flights, hotels, and car rentals are less likely to be fully booked during weekdays, shoulder seasons, or early mornings and late nights. With fewer travelers, there’s a higher likelihood of available upgrades. For example, flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday is often less crowded than flying on weekends, making it a good time to request an upgrade.

Check-In Early or Late

Timing your check-in can also play a role in securing an upgrade. Checking in early gives you the advantage of choosing from available upgrades before they are given to other passengers or guests. Conversely, checking in late can work in your favor if the hotel or airline needs to fill premium seats or rooms due to no-shows or cancellations. It’s a bit of a gamble, but both strategies have their merits.

Be Polite and Courteous

A friendly attitude can go a long way when requesting an upgrade. Politeness and courtesy toward the check-in staff or gate agents can make a positive impression and increase your chances of receiving an upgrade. When asking for an upgrade, be respectful and understanding if it’s not available. Sometimes, simply treating staff with kindness and respect can result in unexpected perks.

Use Credit Card Benefits

Many travel credit cards offer benefits that can help you secure upgrades. Cards that provide elite status with airlines or hotels, access to exclusive lounges, or priority boarding can enhance your travel experience. Additionally, some credit cards offer free upgrades as part of their perks. For instance, certain hotel credit cards offer complimentary room upgrades when available.

Take Advantage of Special Occasions

Special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, or honeymoons can be a great opportunity to request an upgrade. When making your booking or during check-in, mention your special occasion. While there’s no guarantee, many airlines, hotels, and car rental companies like to celebrate with their customers and may offer upgrades as a gesture of goodwill.

Consider Paid Upgrades

If you’re unable to score a complimentary upgrade, consider paid upgrade options. Airlines and hotels often offer discounted upgrade rates closer to the travel date. These can be significantly cheaper than booking a premium seat or room outright. Keep an eye on your email or the provider’s website for upgrade offers leading up to your trip.

Use Upgrade Auctions

Some airlines offer upgrade auctions where you can bid for a better seat. This can be a cost-effective way to secure an upgrade, as you can set your price and only pay if your bid is accepted. Check if your airline offers this option and participate in the auction for a chance at an affordable upgrade.

In summary, scoring an upgrade involves a combination of loyalty, timing, politeness, and sometimes a bit of luck. By joining loyalty programs, booking directly, traveling during off-peak times, checking in strategically, being courteous, leveraging credit card benefits, taking advantage of special occasions, considering paid upgrades, and participating in upgrade auctions, you can increase your chances of enjoying a more luxurious travel experience.