Best hacks to upgrade your flight on your next holiday trip

Passengers try all sorts of things to get a flight upgrade — but there’s one specific thing you can do to help increase your chances.

Now that travel is up and running, Aussies are keener than ever to get back to their beachside getaways and backpacking endeavours.

While some are happy to spend a bit extra to make up for lost time after the pandemic, for others, the price of a first class plane ticket is still out of reach with some airlines such as Emirates charging upwards of $16,000 for a round trip.

Travel experts at Forbes Advisor have put together their top tips in increasing your chances of being upgraded on a flight — including one they say many people often don’t consider.

Check in early

When heading to the airport, most people simply try to arrive with enough time to check in bags, clear security and relax before taking off. However, according to the travel experts, many people don’t realise the time you check in can influence your chances of an upgrade.

“If you want to improve your chances of a free first class seat, try checking in either very early — or last minute,” an expert advised.

“If you arrive several hours early for your flight, you’re most likely to beat off any competition for first class or business tickets – and avoid missing out to someone who got there before you. Chances are if the economy cabin has been overbooked, airlines will want to rectify this sooner rather than later to avoid causing delays.

The time you check in can influence your chances of an upgrade. To try get a seat in business class you want to check in super early, or the last minute.

Fly a new route

One tip many people don’t consider, according to the experts, is to opt to fly a new route.

“If you spot an airline is opening a new flight route between two destinations — try to book on. Many of these routes are not yet known about, or popular, meaning there is often spare space in first class. Again, always be polite to staff and try your luck by asking for an upgrade.”

Ask politely

This one has been reported to work many times. US travel influencer Allie Marshell, who is known for her hacks and tips, recently revealed how asking politely worked twice for her.

“I feel so silly to say this as a ‘travel hack’, because really it’s just being a nice person, but this is what you do if you want to be upgraded. It worked for me twice,” Allie said in a TikTok.

Experts agreed that one the best tactics is simply to ask airlines if there is a chance for an upgrade. “This is especially worth trying if you’ve been inconvenienced in any way by the airline; have been delayed, lost your baggage or missed a connection.”

“Politely mention that an upgrade would be appreciated, if possible, and stress your loyalty to the airline.

“Alternatively, if your flight is for a special occasion, why not try your luck by mentioning it? “Many airline staff will help to upgrade you if they can to make occasions such as honeymoons, anniversaries and birthdays more special.”

It also helps to ask politely.

Be flexible

According to the experts, being a helpful and flexible customer often leads to rewards. “It’s not uncommon for some airlines to overbook flights leading to them needing to ‘bump’ passengers to another flight,” they said.

“If the airline is looking for volunteers to take a later flight, take the opportunity as it could lead to a free upgrade for your troubles.”

If a first class ticket isn’t offered and you have been bumped (voluntarily or not), it’s always worth asking if they can upgrade your ticket due to the inconvenience.

“Another common occurrence on flights is to be asked to move to a new seat by the cabin crew,” the experts added.

“While this can be inconvenient, if you’re flexible it could be to your advantage. Say yes to being moved and you could land yourself with a first class seat – if not, again it’s always worth asking for an upgrade for your troubles.”

One woman said asking nicely worked for her twice. Picture: TikTok/alliegoneaway

Fly solo

Due to the premium price of first class seats, it is believed you have much better chances of getting an upgrade if you’re flying alone.

“It’s unlikely airlines will want to lose out on money to upgrade a large group, so are more likely to offer a free first class ticket to individuals.”

The experts say you have a much better chance of getting an upgrade if you fly solo.

Pick your flight time wisely

“There are certain conditions where first class seats are less likely to be fully booked up. For example, if economy class is overbooked you’re much more likely to be offered a free upgrade,” experts revealed.

They said to consider occasions when this might be the case.

“For example, flying during peak times for families such as school holidays – most families won’t shell out to sit in first class and routes will be busy, increasing the likelihood of an overbooked economy cabin.

“Alongside this, there is a higher likelihood you may be asked to move seats to accommodate a family with young children – again providing opportunity to be given or ask for an upgrade.”

It has also been advised to pick your flight time wisely.

Dress smart

There’s always been mixed reviews about this one, but according to the Forbes Advisor travel experts, while dressing in your finest clothes is no guarantee for an upgrade, a smart outfit will certainly enhance your chances of being chosen.

“Top paying customers will often be dressed sharper, and airlines will want to ensure anyone they bump to first class looks the part.”

“Don’t feel the need to dress in anything extravagant. However, just make sure you avoid items that are too casual like flip flops and cargo shorts.”