The airport check-in trick that could get you an upgrade
Some people go their whole lives without ever getting upgraded on a flight, while others seem to get lucky nearly every time they fly.
There are actually a few things you can do to increase your odds of being upgraded next time you're taking a flight, travel experts say.
And the easiest way to do it? Arrive at the airport early.
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You can bid for a business class upgrade. Getty
Ruchi Harnal, founder of Harnal Travel, shared her insider secrets with Travel + Leisure.
She explained that you can try to "arrive right when the check-in window opens, as airlines sometimes offer upgrades at the counter for far less than the original fare."
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Another expert told the publication that he had "personally scored international business class seats for as little as $US200 ($305) extra using this strategy."
The one thing is that you must always be polite. The second you act entitled or demand an upgrade, there's zero chance the airline staff will want to help you out.
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Arrive to check in early. Getty
Dedicated travellers have a few other options when trying to snag that elusive upgrade, too.
Pay for an upgrade
Yes, working your way up the tiers of your favourite airline's status tiers can help you secure an upgrade.
But this is becoming increasingly harder to do.
Joe Cronin, president of International Citizens Insurance, told Travel + Leisure that for an average traveller, buying one-off upgrades is more beneficial than racking up miles.
"The ideal moment to snag an upgrade is two to three weeks before your flight; that's when airlines sneak out noticeably cheaper premium tickets," he said.
Some people seem to get very lucky with upgrades on planes. Getty Images/iStockphoto
"Do not upgrade immediately after you've booked because fares usually soften in the weeks that follow. When the departure window narrows, log in again within one to two days before departure. Airlines often slash prices a day or two before a flight to fill the remaining spots."
Joe also suggests using the airline's app, rather than their website to look for the "sweeter offers".
Avoid travel in busy periods to get the best upgrade options. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Fly when demand is low
"Some airlines let you bid for upgrades the day before a flight, which can land you a premium seat for a fraction of the normal cost," Jesse Neugarten, founder and CEO of Dollar Flight Club, told the publication.
If you fly during periods when not many other people are travelling - outside of peak seasons and school holidays - you're more likely to be able to get an upgrade for a lower cost.
Go solo
It's sad but true: you have much better chances of getting an upgrade if you're flying alone.
It's unlikely airlines will want to lose out on money to upgrade a large group, so are more likely to offer a free first class ticket to individuals.
Cathay Pacific's Premium Economy is considered one of the best in the world. Cathay Pacific
Buy a premium economy ticket
If you want an upgrade to business, you're more likely to get one if you're already sitting in the premium economy cabin.
And that way, even if you don't get a free upgrade, at least you're a little more comfy.
