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Many people always ask me how to get a free upgrade on flights, tips on looking great after getting off a flight, things you should avoid eating, what are the best meals to eat or order, etc, etc, etc.

I'll try and answer as many questions as I can.

This week, I'll let you in on some tips for a free upgrade. Quite often this does not happen, but sometimes it does. 

1.  Sign up for airlines’ frequent flyer program. 

     You may not have enough points or miles for a free upgrades, but you're on a priority list when it comes to upgrades. This is one way airlines like to "reward" their loyal customers.

2.  2.  Travel Alone

While this is not always possible, your chances of getting an upgrade are much higher if you are travelling alone. If you are travelling in a group, even if its just a small family, the airline is not likely to upgrade you because it mean upgrading everyone.

3.  3.  Book yourself on a Full Flight

If you can, try to book yourself on to a flight that is going to have a very full economy section.
You can figure out the numbers by going through a false booking on the airline’s website, or simply calling the airline to ask.

Many airlines over book their flights, meaning selling more seats that what is actually available. 
This happens alot for economy class. Therefore, the airline has to upgrade some economy passengers to business class.

If you are a frequent flyer travelling alone, your chances for an upgrade is rather high

4.  4.  Check in last min

I know in general, most of us check in about 2 hours before the flight departure time. Some of us check in online to get an aisle or window seat. However, if you would like to try your luck (especially on a full flight). Check in about 1 hour before the departure time. Most airline, closes the counter about 40mins to 1 hour before the flight scheduled departure time. 
Twice, I was the last to check in for the flight, and there was no more seats left in economy. I had a free upgrade to business class :)

1.  5.  Dress the Part

Being comfortable on flight is important, I’m not saying you should go onboard wearing a suit and tie or gown. But dress like you’re a first class passenger, smart causal and clean shaven. Do not wear tattered jeans, dirty shoes, slippers or an old t-shirt. You’ll more likely get chosen for an upgrade. 

1. 6.  Take Advantage of Special Occasions

     If you’re on your honeymoon or celebrating your wedding anniversary or birthday, be sure to tell the airline staff. They may be willing to upgrade you to make your event more special. Even if you don’t get an upgrade, you’ll most likely get a glass of champagne or better service. 

1. 7.  Be Polite

     Be very polite to all of the staff you’re dealing with at the airline. Quite often the decision about upgrades lies with the check in staff. If they don’t like you, you won’t get upgraded. Smile when talking to the staff but don’t be overly friendly or pushy.

8.  Avoid Business Hours

Try to fly outside of business hours as the first and business class cabin are likely to be full on these flights. Try flying at odd hours of the day and on  the weekends. Fly during summer holidays or winter holidays. 

1. 9.  Be sneaky

When you are booking your flight through a travel agent, be extremely friendly to them. If they like you, they may be willing to make you as a CIP (Commerically Important Passenger) or SFU(Suitable for Upgrade). 

A lot of people tell you not to do this, for a various reasons, but in my own experience, this does work. Ask the airline if they need volunteers for an upgrade. If you have followed the above 9 tips, you have a very high chance of getting the upgrade if there are seats available. 

The more effort you put to getting your upgrade, the greater your chance. 

In some cases, when the flight is full. They might offer travel at a later date with an upgrade, duty-free shopping vouchers or an overnight stay in a nice hotel including airport transfer for free. The more flexible you are, the better. 


However, if you don't get one..... don’t blame me :p

If you have any tips or upgrade experience of you own, be sure to tell me via all the comments.