There is no denying the excitement of travelling abroad. Whether you’re hopping on a quick flight or heading much further afield, it’s always something to look forward to. However, for a lot of people, the flight itself can be uncomfortable and boring. It’s easy to see why, as you are simply sitting still – in an often small and uncomfortable seat – for hours at a time. Travelling by air has become a very common mode of transportation in recent times, and with the advent of low cost carriers, more and more people can afford to fly. But, this hasn’t led to the improvement of comfort in the skies.
For some, travelling in economy class can be a bit of a hassle, and they would prefer to fly in the more comfortable and luxurious business or first class cabins. While it may seem like an unattainable goal, getting a flight upgrade is not as difficult as it may seem. In this article, we will discuss some tips and tricks to help you boost your chances of getting a flight upgrade for your next holiday.
Tips for Getting a Flight Upgrade
It doesn’t matter if you are heading to the Algarve or somewhere else, getting a flight upgrade is an exciting treat. Here are some of our top tips for increasing the chances of it happening to you.
Join a Frequent Flyer Program – Joining a frequent flyer program is one of the easiest ways to increase your chances of getting a flight upgrade. Airlines often prioritise their loyal customers, and frequent flyers who accumulate points or miles can use them to upgrade their seats. Not only that, but frequent flyers often get other perks, such as priority check-in and boarding, and access to airport lounges.
Dress to Impress – Believe it or not, the way you dress can have an impact on your chances of getting an upgrade. Airlines often upgrade passengers who look smart and well dressed, so make sure to dress appropriately for the cabin you are hoping to upgrade to. This doesn’t mean you have to wear a suit or a ball gown, but avoid wearing shorts or flip flops, and opt for smart casual attire instead.
Be Polite and Friendly – The way you interact with airline staff can also have an impact on your chances of getting an upgrade. Be polite and friendly when checking in, and try to strike up a conversation with the staff. If you are pleasant to be around, they may be more likely to consider upgrading you.
Arrive Early – Arriving early at the airport can also increase your chances of getting a flight upgrade. Airlines often upgrade passengers who arrive early, as they can then fill any empty seats in the higher cabins. Additionally, if you arrive early, you may have more time to speak with the airline staff and make a good impression.
Volunteer to Give Up Your Seat – If your flight is overbooked, volunteering to give up your seat can sometimes lead to a flight upgrade. Airlines will often offer incentives, such as a voucher or an upgrade, to passengers who are willing to give up their seat and take a later flight. If you are flexible with your travel plans, this could be a great way to score an upgrade.
Use Your Connections – If you know someone who works for the airline, or if you have a friend who has successfully received a flight upgrade in the past, don’t be afraid to ask for their advice. They may have insider knowledge or tips that can help you increase your chances of getting an upgrade.
Choose Your Flight Wisely – Choosing your flight wisely can also increase your chances of getting an upgrade. If you are flying on a busy route or during peak travel season, the chances of getting an upgrade may be lower. On the other hand, if you are flying during a less busy time, such as midweek or during off peak season, there may be more opportunities for upgrades.
Be Flexible – Being flexible with your travel plans can also increase your chances of getting an upgrade. If you are willing to fly at a different time, on a different day, or to a different destination, the airline may be more willing to offer you an upgrade. Additionally, if you are flexible with your seating preferences, such as aisle or window, this could also increase your chances of getting an upgrade.
Use Your Credit Card – Some credit cards offer perks such as airport lounge access, priority boarding, and even flight upgrades. If you have a credit card that offers these benefits, make sure to take advantage of them as much as you can. You don’t want to miss out on a flight upgrade just because you didn’t read the small print.
There are a lot of ways to boost your chances of getting a flight upgrade, and they are worth doing. Though you might not get an upgrade every time, it’s always worth a shot. After all, wouldn’t you want to be in with a chance of flying in style and comfort? One of the good things about flying to the Algarve is that the flight is relatively short, especially if you are heading there from the UK or mainland Europe, and so not being upgraded isn’t the end of the world.