How to get upgraded on a flight for free « Euro Weekly News

If you’re flying long-haul and fancy a champagne experience on a lemonade budget, you might be in luck with this guide on how to get upgraded on a flight for free.

While flight upgrades might feel like a lottery win, there are some actionable strategies to increase your chances. Here are some top tips to help snag a first-class upgrade for free or at minimal cost.

Try to travel during off-peak times

CNET and Skyscanner agree that quieter travel days, like midweek or during bank holidays, improve your odds of an upgrade. With fewer business travellers in the air, there are more empty seats up front. Red-eye flights are also worth considering, if you can bear the jet lag.

Check-in early, or perhaps slightly late

The timing of your check-in can make all the difference. Skyscanner noted a lucky couple arriving at Glasgow Airport hours before departure and landing first-class seats simply by being early. On the flip side, arriving later (but not too late!) could work if the airline overbooks economy and needs to bump passengers up.

Join loyalty programmes

Frequent flyer memberships are a tried-and-tested way to climb the airline hierarchy. As CNET notes, perks can include ‘free upgrades to first or business class, early boarding, access to exclusive airport lounges and waived baggage fees.’

Be polite and presentable at the airport

It might sound simple, but politely asking the assistant at the check-in desk can work wonders. A couple I know got engaged while on holiday and then got upgraded for free on the way home after she flashed her rock at the desk. If you’ve got a genuine reason for requiring extra comfort such as a health issue, don’t hesitate to mention it. I once had a nasty infected mosquito bite on my leg and got upgraded to extra legroom for free so I could keep my foot elevated.

While there’s no official dress code, looking polished can help. Former flight attendant Celina Bedding told The Express that dressing “smarter” increases your chances as cabin crew favour passengers who won’t disrupt others in the premium seats. The unofficial dress code? Smart casual. Think jeans paired with a blazer or casual business attire. For a summer-friendly option, long dresses can strike the perfect balance. Avoid tracksuits, leggings, flip-flops, and open-toed shoes.

Fly solo for an easier upgrade

Travelling alone? Your odds of being moved to first class are higher. Airlines find it easier to shuffle solo travellers than groups.

If your flight is overbooked and you’ve got flexible plans, volunteer to take a later flight. Airlines often reward this gesture with extra miles, vouchers, or hopefully an upgrade.

Bid for upgraded seats

Some airlines, like Lufthansa and Air Canada, allow passengers to bid on premium seats.

Report any seat issues

If your seatbelt is broken or your screen doesn’t work, let the cabin crew know. CNET reported that airlines sometimes move passengers to premium seats if they can’t resolve the issue quickly.

There’s no guaranteed formula for a first-class upgrade, but these tips could tilt the odds in your favour.

Remember, kindness and politeness often pay off, so smile, be easy-going, and you might just find yourself sipping champagne while up in the clouds.

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