Ever wondered how to get a free upgrade to Business Class or First Class on your flight? Sipping champagne in business or first class without emptying your pockets is definitely possible. From our personal experience, we’ll show you all the secrets to elevating your flying experience. After flying in first class, you will not want to book anymore a flight in Economy 😁
Pssst..! We also wrote from our own experience a guide showing you the best tips to book cheap flights (international and domestic).
So here we go, the best tips on how to get upgraded to Business or First class:
1 – Dress the Part – Appearances Matter!
Believe it or not, your appearance can play a significant role in scoring an upgrade to business or first class. Dressing smartly and professionally can catch the eye of airline staff and increase your chances of being considered for an upgrade. Opt for business casual attire that will make you smell sophistication and class. Avoid looking messy or untidy, as this may give the impression that you won’t appreciate the luxury of an upgraded seat. Remember, first impressions matter, so dress to impress and you might just find yourself upgraded to a better seat at the front of the plane.
2 – Book Overbooked Flights or Peak Travel Periods
Booking flights during peak travel periods or on routes known to be frequently overbooked can increase your chances of snagging an upgrade. When economy class is full, airlines may need to bump passengers up to business or first class to make room for additional passengers. By strategically booking your flights during busy times or on popular routes, you put yourself in a prime position to benefit from potential overbooking situations. Keep an eye out for flights scheduled during holidays, weekends, or peak vacation seasons, and you may just find yourself enjoying an unexpected upgrade to a more luxurious seat.
Travel Guides Genius Insiders Tips: If you want to increase your chances of being upgraded on overbooked flights, make sure to belong to the airline alliance (or frequent flyer program). The higher status your have, the higher the chances you get to obtain an upgrade, as the cabin crew or ground staff will always prioritize this category of flyers.
3 – Use Points or Miles to Bid for Upgrades
Many airlines offer the option to bid for upgrades using points or miles through their frequent flyer programs (we got several times in Business class for less than a $80 bid with Etihad, Latam, Avianca, Qantas or even Singapore Airlines). If you have some points or miles saved up, consider using them to bid (instead of a cash bid) for an upgrade to business class or first class. Airlines typically open up bidding a few days before the flight, allowing passengers to submit their bids for a chance to upgrade their seats. While there’s no guarantee of success, bidding for upgrades can be a savvy way to secure a more comfortable flying experience. As we explained, using miles instead of cash will make it a free bid (and thus free upgrade if your bid is approved). Simply choose your desired upgrade level, submit your bid, and cross your fingers for a successful answer.
4 – Join the Airline’s Loyalty Program
As explained right above, if you’re a frequent flyer, joining the airline’s loyalty program is a must-do Loyalty programs often offer perks such as priority boarding, complimentary upgrades, and bonus miles for future travels. By accumulating points or miles through your loyalty program membership, you increase your chances of being upgraded to business or first class. You can check here for a more in-depth guide about airlines frequent flyers programs. Make sure to actively participate in the program by flying with the airline regularly and taking advantage of any special promotions or offers. The more loyal you are to the airline, the more likely you are to be rewarded with an upgraded seat.
5 – Travel Solo
Solo travelers have a higher likelihood of being upgraded compared to those traveling in groups or with companions. Airlines often have more flexibility when it comes to upgrading individual passengers, as it’s easier to accommodate a single traveler in a premium cabin than an entire group. If you’re flying solo, be sure to mention it politely to airline staff during check-in or at the gate. Emphasize your flexibility and willingness to accept an upgrade if available. By flying solo, you increase your chances of being selected for an upgrade and enjoying the perks of business or first class.
6 – Volunteer to Give Up Your Seat
Sometimes, getting upgraded to business or first class is as simple as being in the right place at the right time. If the flight is oversold or there are seating issues, volunteering to give up your seat in exchange for a later flight can work in your favor. Airlines often offer compensation, such as travel vouchers or upgrades, to passengers willing to be flexible with their travel plans. By volunteering to give up your seat, you may find yourself being upgraded to a higher class of service as a gesture of appreciation for your cooperation. It’s a win-win situation for everyone involved.
7 – Arrive Early at the Airport
Arriving early at the airport can give you an advantage when it comes to securing an upgrade. Airlines often allocate upgrades based on availability, and being one of the first passengers to check in increases your chances of being considered. Additionally, arriving early allows you to interact with airline staff and express your interest in an upgrade politely. By demonstrating your enthusiasm and flexibility, you may catch the attention of staff who are looking to fill empty seats in premium cabins. Give yourself plenty of time at the airport, and you might just find yourself enjoying an upgraded flying experience.
🎁 Bonus – Be Polite & Friendly
Last but not least, it’s true what they say — manners cost nothing, but they can earn you everything. When it comes to getting upgraded on a flight, a little kindness can go a long way. Be polite and friendly to airline staff from the moment you check in to the moment you board the plane. A warm smile, a friendly greeting, and a respectful attitude can make all the difference in how you’re perceived by airline’s staff. While there are no guarantees, being courteous and respectful may just play in your favor when it comes to getting an upgrade.
Here’s a little recap about how to get free upgrades on flights:
1 – Dress the Part – Appearances Matter!
2 – Book Overbooked Flights or Peak Travel Periods
3 – Use Points or Miles to Bid for Upgrades
4 – Join the Airline’s Loyalty Program
5 – Travel Solo
6 – Volunteer to Give Up Your Seat
7 – Arrive Early at the Airport
Extra – Be Polite and Friendly
This guide was updated on March 2024
