Three ways you can increase your chances of an upgrade next time you fly

Love to enjoy a more luxurious travel experience, but don’t have the budget? Read on for three ways you can increase your chances of an upgrade next time you fly.

Most of us dream of flying first class – especially when stuck in a cheap economy seat with no legroom. But did you know there might be a way you could experience the luxury of a premium seat without breaking the bank? 

James Smith from Travel Lingual reveals three tips that could significantly increase your chances of scoring a free upgrade on your next flight.

1) Target off-peak hours and days

Skip the Monday morning rush and aim for flights in the middle of the day, especially on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. Airlines are more likely to have empty premium seats during these times, making upgrades more freely available.

Consider flying during business travel lulls, such as mid-week or during major holidays. With fewer business flyers, airlines are more willing to fill those empty premium seats with eager economy passengers.

2) Join the airline loyalty program

Leveraging airline loyalty programs can be a game-changer. By actively engaging with your airline across various platforms, including social media, you can position yourself as a valued customer, increasing your likelihood of being considered for complimentary upgrades.

3) Check-in at the right time – and be friendly!

Being selective about check-in timing, whether checking in early to secure a top spot on the upgrade list or seizing last-minute opportunities, can prove fruitful.

A little kindness goes a long way, too. Strike up friendly conversations with gate agents and check-in staff. Express your interest in an upgrade politely, but genuinely. Remember their names and mention you fly this route often.

Travel Lingual is a website dedicated to making travel easy and accessible. Its meta-search engine allows visitors to find single and multi-day tours and activities worldwide, providing a range of prices and tour options to suit all budgets.