Money latest: Seven tips for getting a free upgrade on a plane

It’s not uncommon to feel uncomfortable with flying – but we’d probably all feel a bit better if we were sitting in first class, wouldn’t we? 

The lucky few might be able to pay for themselves, but for the rest of us, frequent flyer experts Flight Hacks have shared their top tips to get a free upgrade (and you can let us know your tips for getting upgrades in the comments box above)…

Stay loyal to one airline

Many airlines have a rewards scheme that offers free upgrades, early check-in and even free flights to loyal customers. 

One research survey found 80% of staff said a customer in the airline’s frequent flier scheme would be more likely to receive a free upgrade.

Plus, getting early check-in could place you first in line to secure a seat in the plane’s front section.

Travel alone or during quieter times

Let’s face it, a single person on an empty flight is much more likely to get an upgrade than a family of six on a booked-out plane. 

Try flying in the middle of the week or at off-peak times to get a quieter plane. 

Dress to impress 

If you’re dressed smartly and look like a frequent flier, this can boost your chances of getting an upgrade. 

Business travellers are an airline’s favourite type of passenger as they fly regularly and are more likely to spend freely on their company cards – so it could be worth dressing in business attire. 

Don’t be afraid to ask

It doesn’t hurt just to enquire, as long as you’re polite. 

Be flexible

Airlines will frequently overbook flights to compensate for no-shows and ensure the planes are full. 

If there aren’t enough seats after everyone checks in, they will often offer incentives to passengers willing to switch to a later flight.

This can mean seat upgrades or cash incentives. 

Take advantage of special occasions

If it’s your birthday, honeymoon or a special anniversary, it could be worth casually dropping this into conversation with the check-in staff. 

Be polite when checking in

Perhaps all of these tips should be caveated with the need to remain polite. 

As there is often no strict criteria on how airline staff may choose to give out free upgrades, the number one tip is to be nice. 

Travel expert Immanuel Debeer, from Flight Hacks, says “being respectful and friendly is by far the best way to increase your chances of an upgrade”. 

“There are plenty of simple tricks to increase your chances of getting an upgrade, but the most important thing to remember is that airline staff are human.”