Top 5 Effective Tips to get a Free Flight Upgrade

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.

TOP 5 MONEY SAVING TRAVEL HACKS

(1) MONEY EXCHANGE

Never exchange your money in the airport. The rates are usually not great and you could end up paying more than you bargained for. It is best to do it in advance so you have time to compare the rates. Also, keep an eye on the exchange rate.

(2) KEEPING IN CONTACT

If you want to stay in touch with family and friends through making calls. It is strongly advised that you used the Whatsapp telephone feature. It uses a VOIp system so through the use of the Internet your calls will be completely free.

Whenever you wish to make a call, find a place with WiFi to avoid running up a huge bill. Also, don’t forget to turn off roaming on your phone. This is another cause of high phone bills when travelling.

(3) AIRPORT TAXIS

Airport taxis can be very expensive because the taxi drivers usually inflate the price. Before your trip, research the best ways to use public transport to get to your hotel. It is also an opportunity to hit the ground running when experiencing a new country. If you do insist on using a taxi from the airport make sure to negotiate on the price before entering the taxi. This is to ensure that you avoid getting an unexpected price that you did not budget for when you reach your destination.

 (4) SAVE MONEY ON FLIGHT TICKETS

Book your flights during the weekdays because it is a lot cheaper. Also, try not to book your flights during the weekends or public holidays, as the price will increase.

Sometimes airlines also do discount codes on their flights, so be on the lookout and search the Internet there are loads.

 (5) AVOID TOURIST TRAPS

Tourist traps are usually overhyped places where tourists go to eat and be entertained. Those places are usually really expensive. To avoid being ripped off check out the local things to see and do. Remember to do your research.

To truly enjoy the culture of the country or city that you are visiting eat the local food. It’s going to be much more affordable and will further add to the experience.

When you arrive at your destination. Go to the information centre or check with your hotel and they will usually have coupons and discount codes for different restaurants, theatres and tourist attractions.