First class traveling in comfort can be quite costly. While most of us can't
always afford to do so there are definite perks and added comfort for those
who can. There are never any guarantees when it comes to getting a free
upgrade to first class, but there at ten tips that can help strengthen your
chances of getting to upgrade your travel experience.
1. Do not fear asking for the upgrade. Most people just assume that since
they are not able to pay hundreds of dollars for a first class ticket that
they will be stuck in coach. This is not always the case. Many times the
airline will hold back tickets and in an attempt to get rid of them discount
them to the cost of coach or even lower. Ask the agent at the counter if this
is the case with your flight.
2. Use special events to your advantage. Most airlines will do what they can
to celebrate your birthday or anniversary. Make sure that when requesting
first class upgrades, that you have documentation for that special event.
3. Befriend the travel agent. The best thing about travel agents is they have
access to a wonderful thing on a reservation called a comment box and usually
their comments are considered. Ask that the travel agent to note on the
reservation that you are an important figure in a business (it helps to
actually be) or that you are willing to upgrade if the airline needs
volunteers to move from coach to first class.
4. Book the overbooked. This can be risky in a sense that you could lose
access to any reservation. But if you have the option try to reserve a seat
on a plane where the coach section is full. The airline would rather upgrade
you to first class to keep your business. Airlines do not like to send away
customers they think will get satisfaction from a competitor. While you may
not get on the first flight, the airlines will do what is in their power to
make sure you get a great seat on another flight, especially when you're
willing to wait.
5. The bigger the first class sections the better. It doesn't take a genius
to logically determine that the bigger the first class section, the better
chance for a first class upgrade. There are several ways to go about
investigating the size of the first class cabin, the easiest way would be to
just go directly to the airline's website and retrieve the information. Most
airlines will offer that information.
6. Take advantage of family and friends. Most commercial airlines offer
benefits and perks to their employees that can be shared with their family
and friends. Perks may include discounted coach seats or even free/cheap
upgrades to first class.
While nobody can ever predict if their upgrade attempt (s) will go unrewarded,
or pay off entirely, there is no harm in trying. The mere act of putting a
smile on your face and asking for the upgrade could make your flight go from
a snug fit beside a stranger in coach, to a comfortable quiet ride in first
class.
Jonathan Kittley is the airline employee, and wasinterviewed on: http://www.
free-flight-upgrades.com where you can learn all about cheap flights and free
flight upgrades.
Jonathan Kittley is the airline employee, and wasinterviewed on: http://www.free-flight-upgrades.com where you can learn all about cheap flights and free flight upgrades.
