Life hacks when travelling on a plane, How to get free upgrades on flights?

by Brett Gevers March 11, 2023, 6:35 pm 1.7k Views 85 Comments

shallow focus photography of people inside of passenger plane

Identifying Airlines That Offer Free Upgrades

Many airlines around the world offer free upgrades to their customers. Depending on the airline, these upgrades may include extra legroom, priority boarding, free in-flight meals and drinks, free checked baggage, and other perks. Below is a list of some of the more popular airlines that offer free upgrades.

Southwest Airlines: Southwest Airlines offers frequent flyer points that customers can use to upgrade their seats to Business Select or higher seating.
American Airlines: American Airlines offers frequent flyer miles that can be used to upgrade to a premium seat.
Delta Airlines: Delta Airlines offers free upgrades to their SkyMiles members.
United Airlines: United Airlines offers free upgrades to their MileagePlus members.
JetBlue Airways: JetBlue Airways offers free upgrades to their TrueBlue members.
Alaska Airlines: Alaska Airlines offers free upgrades to their Mileage Plan members.
Virgin Atlantic: Virgin Atlantic offers free upgrades to their Flying Club members.

These airlines offer free upgrades to their customers, but it is important to note that the availability of these upgrades can vary based on the specific flight, seat availability, and other factors. It is always best to check with the airline directly about their upgrade policies to ensure that you can get the best possible experience.

How to Get the Most Out of Airline Loyalty Programs

Airline loyalty programs provide customers with a wide array of benefits that can help make flying more enjoyable and cost-effective. To get the most out of these programs, it is important to understand how they work and what benefits they offer.

First, it is important to sign up for a loyalty program. Joining is free, and it is easy to do online or at the airport. Once you have signed up, you will be able to collect and redeem points or miles for flights, upgrades, and other rewards.

Second, join the airline’s email list. Doing so will ensure that you receive all of the latest updates and offers. This will help you to take advantage of bonus opportunities and discounts.

Third, take advantage of special deals and offers. Many airlines offer special deals to loyalty members. This could include bonus points for signing up for credit cards, discounts on flights, and more.

Fourth, consider signing up for an airline credit card. This can help you accumulate points or miles more quickly and also provide additional perks such as free checked bags and priority boarding.

Finally, make sure to keep your loyalty program profile up to date. This will help the airline better understand your travel needs and preferences so they can offer you special deals and discounts.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your airline loyalty program and reap the rewards of being a loyal customer.

Utilizing Social Media to Get Free Flight Upgrades

The way airlines use social media has changed significantly over the years. From sharing new promotions and special offers, to offering customers unique experiences, airlines are now leveraging the power of social media to deliver a more personalized customer experience. One of the most popular ways airlines are utilizing social media is to provide their customers with free flight upgrades.

For customers looking to get a free upgrade on their next flight, the first step is to follow their favorite airline on social media. This will ensure that customers are at the top of the list for any new offers or special promotions that the airline may be offering. Additionally, customers should pay close attention to the content the airline is posting, as they may highlight certain customers who have received free upgrades in the past.

The next step is to engage with the airline on social media. This could include liking and sharing posts from the airline, as well as responding to questions or comments. By actively engaging with the airline, customers are showing their loyalty and enthusiasm for the brand and are more likely to be considered for a free upgrade.

The final step is to use the airline’s hashtag when posting about travel experiences. For example, if a customer posts a picture of their seat on the plane, they could use the hashtag #MyDreamFlightUpgrade. This hashtag is a great way to attract the attention of the airline and show them that the customer is interested in receiving a free upgrade.

By utilizing these social media tactics, customers can increase their chances of getting a free upgrade on their next flight. With a bit of patience and a lot of enthusiasm, customers can take their travel experience to the next level with a free upgrade.

Strategies for Increasing Your Chances of Getting a Free Upgrade

1. Join an Airline’s Loyalty Program: Joining an airline’s frequent flyer program or loyalty program is the first step to increasing the likelihood of getting a free upgrade. Many airlines offer incentives to their most loyal customers such as free upgrades and priority boarding.

Dress the Part: Many airlines have dress codes for passengers who sit in first class cabins, so dressing appropriately is a good way to increase your chances of getting an upgrade. Avoid wearing clothing that looks too casual, such as t-shirts, shorts, and flip-flops.
Be Flexible With Your Flight Time: Being available to fly at any time of the day or night increases your chances of getting a free upgrade. Airlines often give out upgrades to those who can be flexible with their schedules.
Check-In Early: Checking in for your flight early is another way to increase your chances of getting a free upgrade. Airlines often give out upgrades to those who check-in first.
Be Polite: Airlines often give out upgrades to those who are friendly and polite to the crew. So don’t forget to be courteous and respectful!
Be Loyal: If you fly frequently with the same airline, make sure to let the crew know. Being a loyal customer increases your chances of getting a free upgrade.
Ask for an Upgrade: If you feel you deserve an upgrade or you meet the criteria for an upgrade, don’t be afraid to ask for one. You never know, the crew may be able to accommodate your request.Tips for Last Minute Free Flight Upgrades1. Check your airline’s frequent flyer program: Many airlines offer frequent flyer programs, which can give you access to exclusive benefits such as complimentary upgrades. Make sure you check with your airline to see what types of benefits you can receive for being a member.
Arrive early: Arriving at the airport early is one of the easiest ways to increase your chances of getting a free flight upgrade. When you arrive early, you can check-in with the counter agent and let them know that you would like to be considered for an upgrade.
Be polite: Being polite and courteous to the counter agents and flight attendants can make a big difference when it comes to receiving a free flight upgrade. Make sure you thank them for their help and be sure to ask politely.
Dress the part: Many airlines are more likely to upgrade passengers that are dressed in a professional manner. Making sure you look your best when you check-in can help you stand out from the crowd and increase your chances of getting a free flight upgrade.
Be flexible: Airlines are more likely to upgrade passengers who are flexible with their travel plans. If you’re willing to take a different flight or be more flexible with your schedule, you might be able to get a free flight upgrade.
Travel during off-peak times: Airlines are more likely to offer upgrades when there are available seats that need to be filled. If possible, try to travel during off-peak times to increase your chances of getting a free flight upgrade.