How to Get Free Upgrades
Posted June 28, 2009 – 4:04 pm in: AirlinesFor most airline passengers, spending $5000 or more for a business class ticket in order to better enjoy the flight simply isn’t an option. But, what very few people realize is that most airlines will sometimes upgrade passengers from economy class for free - if they meet certain criteria.
In this article, I will pass on some of the things that the gate attendants look for and require so that you can take advantage of the opportunities to get your upgrade for free. These five top tips come direct from the check in staff of some of the best-known airlines, and are considered by many regular travellers to be the holy grail of getting upgraded for free.
Tip Number 1:
Look the part.
Make sure that you are well dressed when you travel. There is almost no chance of getting upgraded if you are wearing shorts and a scruffy t-shirt, so at the very least, check in wearing a shirt and pants. There is no need to overdo it and wear a suit - unless you really want to. The key is to look sharp, but not overdoing it.
Tip Number 2:
Turn up early.
The check-in staff already know how many passengers are travelling on a particular flight well in advance, so if there are extra seats in first class, they will know right away.
Tip Number 3:
Be Polite.
What if you were the ticket agent. Would you reward a person who gives causes you grief, or someone who is well mannered and pleasant. There may be 250 people in the line behind you, make yourself stand out in a good way. Flirt, smile, use their name, be nice, and you may well win the upgrade contest.
Tip Number 4:
Be a Frequent Flier.
If you join an airline’s frequent flier program, you have a much better chance to be rewarded with an upgrade because the airline will want to reward you for your loyalty. Even if you do not fly regularly, go to the airline’s website and sign up for their program online. It will only take a minute or two and is well worth the effort.
Tip Number 5:
Ask.
As they say that if you don’t ask for something, you won’t get it, so make sure you ask - but do it at the appropriate time. If the ticket agents are very busy, and no amount of charm has elicited a smile, don’t ask them for an upgrade, wait until you get to the gate. If the gate attendants are impressed with your demeanor, when they ask you if you want a particular seat number, be cheeky and say “Business Class” to them. It could be your lucky day!
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Tags: business class ticket, business class travel, saving money on upgrades