Top 5 Effective Tips to get a Free Flight Upgrade
Josh okungbaiye
Here are our top 5 tips to getting a free upgrade from economy class to first class or business class. One thing I must say is that there is no point in trying to upgrade on short-haul flights. You will have a much better chance of scoring a free upgrade on long-haul flights and it will be a longer lasting experience. Give these tips a go on your next trip. Hope they work out for you as they have worked for us. :-) Enjoy!
1. Be prepared to be bumped off a flight
If a flight is full and the airline has oversold on tickets. The airline staff will look to bump people off the flight and put them onto the next flight. We would suggest that you should definitely volunteer yourself to be bumped off a flight. This is a great strategy as airlines offer incentives, compensation and upgrades to those willing to be bumped off a flight.
To ensure you come first to be bumped off a flight. Make sure that when you are checking-in, you simply inform the check-in assistant and make them aware that you are willing to be bumped off a flight in return for a free upgrade if the situation arises.
2. Express concern if your airline has inconvenienced you
If you have been inconvenienced by an airline, do not hesitate to ask for a free upgrade. If your flight is late or you are not happy with the overall customer service. You can express your concerns and the airline may offer you an upgrade in order to maintain goodwill. This strategy is even more effective if you are a loyal customer with a particular airline.
3. If you are celebrating a special occasion. Let them know.
If it is your birthday or you are travelling on a honeymoon (make sure you show your wedding documents as proof). Let the airline staff or travel agent know. You may get a free upgrade or get some extra perks added to your flight experience. Even if they say ‘no’ when you request a free upgrade, they may still give you a huge discount on a first class or business class upgrade, which will be a lot cheaper than the original price.
4. Travel Solo
If you ask for a free upgrade as a solo traveller you are more than likely to be accommodated. This is due to the fact that there is a higher likelihood that one seat in business class or first class will be available. Getting free upgrades for more than one person is a lot harder and less likely.
5. Dress to Impress
First impressions are lasting impressions, so dress the part and simply ask for a free upgrade with a smile and you may just get lucky.
