Flying in economy can be a grind, but scoring an upgrade to business or first class is the dream of many travelers. While upgrades aren’t guaranteed, there are ways to improve your chances. Here are some key strategies to increase the odds of being upgraded when flying.
1. Join a Frequent Flyer Program
Loyalty matters in the airline industry. Enrolling in a frequent flyer program with your preferred airline (or one of its alliance partners) is one of the best ways to get noticed for an upgrade. Airlines prioritise their frequent flyers, so the more you fly with them or one of their partner airlines, the better your chances.
Make sure you add your frequent flyer number to every fbooking to accumulate points consistently.
2. Earn Elite Status
Frequent flyer programs have different tiers, and achieving elite status greatly improves your chances of being upgraded.
Higher-tier members such as Gold and Platinum often receive complimentary upgrades, priority on waitlists, and upgrade vouchers. If you travel often for business or leisure, consider choosing one airline to build your loyalty instead of spreading flights across multiple carriers.
3. Use Airline Credit Cards
Many airlines partner with credit card companies to offer perks like upgrade vouchers, priority boarding, checked bags, waiving of booking fees and extra miles that can be redeemed for upgrades. Holding one of these cards can also boost your status with the airline. Some premium credit cards also provide lounge access, making your wait for an upgrade more comfortable.
Disclaimer: This section is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice or recommendations. Please consult a financial professional before applying for any credit card or finanical service.
4. Fly During Off-Peak Times
Flights during busy travel seasons (holidays, weekends) are usually full, making upgrades less likely. Flying mid-week or at less popular hours (early morning or late night) increases the likelihood of available seats in business or first class. Additionally, flights to less popular destinations tend to have more upgrade opportunities than high-traffic routes.
5. Book Directly with the Airline
When you book through third-party sites like Expedia, your options for upgrades may be limited. Booking directly with the airline ensures that you are eligible for their upgrade programs and promotions. It also makes it easier to manage your reservation, request upgrades, and rebook if needed without additional third-party restrictions.
6. Dress Smartly
While dressing up alone won’t guarantee an upgrade, airlines are more likely to move well-dressed passengers to premium seats than those in casual or scruffy attire. Business casual is usually the best approach—neat, professional, and appropriate for a premium cabin.
7. Travel Solo or in a Pair
Upgrades are easier to secure when you’re traveling alone or with just one companion. Larger groups are harder to accommodate in a limited number of premium seats. If you’re traveling with friends or family, consider booking separately to increase individual chances of an upgrade.
8. Be Flexible and Arrive Early
If a flight is oversold in economy, airlines may look to move passengers to business or first class. Checking in early or volunteering for a later flight can put you in a favorable position for an upgrade. Flexibility with travel plans can sometimes result in a better seat or other compensation benefits.
9. Politely Ask at Check-In or the Gate
Sometimes, simply asking can work. Approach the check-in counter or gate agent politely and inquire if any upgrades are available. Mentioning a special occasion like a honeymoon or anniversary (without being pushy) can sometimes help. Being courteous and friendly to airline staff can go a long way in getting preferential treatment.
10. Bid for an Upgrade
Many airlines now offer upgrade auctions, where passengers can compete and bid for available business or first-class seats at a discount before the flight. Keep an eye on your airline’s website and look for any email offers to see if you’re eligible a few days prior to the flight. If bidding, research past successful bid amounts to increase your chances of securing an upgrade without overpaying.
Even small bids as little as a few dollars can score you an upgrade!
11. Use Miles or Points
If you have accumulated airline miles or credit card points, you can often use them to upgrade to a better seat. Some airlines even allow cash + points upgrades at a lower rate. Keep an eye out for promotions that allow discounted upgrades with miles or elite status perks that increase upgrade availability.
12. Look for Oversold Flights
When economy class is overbooked, airlines sometimes upgrade passengers rather than bumping them. Being a frequent flyer, arriving early, or volunteering to take a later or earlier flight that could work in your favor. If an airline asks for volunteers to switch flights, inquire if an upgrade is possible as part of the compensation.
Final Thoughts
Upgrades aren’t always easy to come by, but by being a loyal customer, dressing appropriately, traveling at the right times, and using airline perks, you can significantly increase your odds. Even if an upgrade doesn’t happen, these strategies will still improve your overall flying experience.
What is your trick for getting upgraded? Share your thoughts in the comments below