THE only thing that’s better than flying in first or business class is perhaps getting to do it for free.
But while getting an upgrade without paying more might be nearly impossible to come by, there are some ways you can wrangle some freebies.
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A former airline worker has revealed why pretending you’re on honeymoon and dressing to impress might not secure you that upgrade.
Ben Payne, former airline worker and Comparetravelinsurance.com.au’s travel expert said: “You’re really unlikely to get an upgrade unless you’re a frequent flyer or pay a premium for your seat.
“That doesn’t stop people trying though.
“Honeymoons, engagements, birthdays or injuries are probably the most common stories we hear.
“I’ve also had influencers try to use their status in exchange for an upgrade. These types of requests are rarely accommodated.”
However, Ben revealed that asking the right person could just secure that free upgrade.
And even if you couldn’t get an upgrade, there are some ways you can get freebies from airlines.
Here are his top tips to use for your next flight:
Ask the right person
If you’re going to ask about an upgrade anyway, you may as well do it well.
Ben said busy travel seasons might actually work in a traveller’s favour.
He explained: “Once you’ve checked in, it’s virtually impossible to get an upgrade due to security purposes.
“When asking for an upgrade, make sure you approach the service desk first, where staff are authorised to make seat changes.
“During peak travel seasons, gate staff may also be authorised to upgrade you.”
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Be polite
This goes a long way in the tough airline industry.
Ben said: “Airline customer service can be stressful so when passengers ignore instructions or just behave poorly it makes the job a lot harder.
“Out of common courtesy, always use basic etiquette and treat staff with decency.
“As a bonus, if a flight is overbooked or oversold, a particularly polite customer may be chosen for an upgrade. It never hurts to be nice.”
Mention your special occasion
It probably won’t get you an upgrade but casually dropping that it’s your birthday/honeymoon/anniversary might score you some kind of freebie.
Ben said: “If you’re on your honeymoon or celebrating a birthday, cabin crew are often happy to oblige with a glass of champagne or an extra perk.
“Just make sure you mention your special occasion once you’re up in the air and not in a crowded queue.”
Request an extra seat
Upgrades may be rare but sometimes flights aren’t full, which means there could be a better seat for you somewhere on-board, even in economy.
Ben explained: “Booking systems literally won’t let ground staff upgrade a passenger so asking for one is usually pointless.
“But there’s nothing to prevent you from being giving an extra seat or two if the flight isn’t full.
“This is especially useful when you’re on a long-haul flight and want to stretch out and get some good quality sleep.”
Request a special meal
Ben revealed a compelling insider’s secret about the meals.
He said: “It’s a little-known secret that vegetarian, vegan, religious and other special meals are usually fresher and better quality than the standard meals.
“You also get served first, which is handy when you’re tired and hungry and don’t want to run the risk of the airline running out of your meal preference.”
It’s important to note, however, that if you’re upgraded, you may not be given your special meal due to time constraints.
Aim for a skybed
Not that many of us would know from experience, but first and business class seats aren’t always the most comfortable seats in the house.
Ben said: “While not all airlines carry them, a skycouch or sleeper seat, which basically converts into a bed, is a game-changer.
“For a few extra hundred dollars, you get a row of three seats to yourself or for your travel party. These couches are so comfortable, business-class passengers will often downgrade so they can recline back fully and get some decent rest.”
Sun Online Travel previously revealed why cruise upgrades might not be as good as you think.
There are also ways you can get freebies on your car hire.
But be careful what you ask for as one influencer ended up being banned from an airline for life after asking for a business class upgrade.
