How to get an upgrade on a flight: 11 free and paid upgrades

• Join airline loyalty programs to boost your upgrade chances
• Look for discounted business class fares or bid on upgrades through airline apps and websites
• Dress well, be polite, and travel at off-peak times to maximize your chances of a free upgrade

Dreaming of an upgrade on a flight without breaking your budget? While complimentary upgrades aren't as common as they once were, there are still ways to improve your chances of flying in greater comfort. From loyalty program strategies to last-minute opportunities, here's how to increase your odds of moving up the cabin on your next trip.

Free flight upgrades

While free upgrades have become more rare, they aren’t impossible to score. Here are some strategies that might help you get upgraded to first class without paying extra.

Join an airline's frequent flyer program

Loyalty is your strongest currency when it comes to getting upgraded to first class. Airlines usually prioritize frequent flyers for complimentary upgrades, especially those with elite status. Even if you're just starting out, being part of the program puts you ahead of non-members.

• Sign up for the loyalty program of the airlines you fly with regularly
• Focus on one alliance rather than spreading your miles across multiple programs
• Maintain status by meeting the minimum requirements each year

Even a modest status level can significantly improve your chances of being upgraded when flights are overbooked in economy.

Try asking at the check-in counter

Sometimes, the simplest approach works best. When checking in, politely ask if any upgrades are available. The key is to be courteous and choose your timing wisely – a busy counter with a long line behind you isn't ideal.

Use phrases like "I was wondering if there are any upgrade opportunities available today?" rather than directly asking for a free upgrade. Check-in staff appreciate good manners and might be more inclined to help if they can.

Check upgrade offers on the app

Many airlines now offer last-minute upgrade opportunities through their mobile apps or at check-in kiosks. These are typically paid upgrades, but often at significantly reduced rates compared to booking business class to begin with.

Before your flight, check the airline's app regularly for notifications about upgrade opportunities. Some airlines send upgrade offers via email in the days leading up to departure, so keep an eye on your inbox as well.

Be early for your flight

Arriving early for your flight can sometimes increase your chances of getting an upgrade. Airlines often process complimentary upgrades well before boarding begins.

If you're at the gate early and the flight is overbooked in economy, you might be one of the first to be considered for an upgrade.

Check-in later

This might seem contradictory to the previous tip, but some frequent travelers swear by checking in later. The strategy here is that if the economy section is overbooked and all other passengers have already checked in, the airline might need to bump someone up – and you could be that person.

This approach is more risky, so it's best to use it when you're not in a rush and on routes that are frequently overbooked.

Ask the flight attendants

If you've boarded the plane and notice empty seats in premium cabins, it doesn't hurt to politely ask a flight attendant if an upgrade might be possible. This rarely works because most upgrades are processed before boarding, but occasionally there might be last-minute changes.

Be extremely polite and understanding if the answer is no. Flight attendants deal with this request often and appreciate passengers who don't make demands.

Travel at quiet times

Flying during less busy periods can improve your upgrade chances. Business travel tends to slow down during weekends, holidays, and summer months, which might mean more premium seats available for upgrades.

Mid-week flights to business destinations often have fewer business class passengers, potentially leaving more space for upgrades from economy.

Paid flight upgrades

When free upgrades aren't an option, there are still ways to fly in premium cabins without paying full fare. Here are your best options for upgrading to business class at a reduced cost.

Bid for an upgrade

Many airlines now offer upgrade auctions where passengers can bid for available premium seats. Typically, you'll receive an email before your flight inviting you to place a bid.

• Research what others have successfully bid for similar routes
• Bid more than the minimum but don't overpay
• Include odd amounts (like $351 instead of $350) to beat identical bids

This system allows you to name your price and potentially secure a business class seat for much less than the standard fare difference.

Use your points or miles

Some airlines allow you to use your airline points or credit card miles to upgrade an existing ticket rather than booking a reward flight from scratch.

Check your airline's policy on upgrade awards – some allow upgrades on any ticket, while others restrict upgrades to higher fare classes. Upgrading with points typically offers better value per point than many other redemption options.

Look for premium economy offers

If business class seems out of reach, premium economy can offer significant comfort improvements over standard economy at a more accessible price point. These cabins typically provide more legroom, wider seats, enhanced meal service, and priority boarding.

Many airlines offer reasonably priced upgrades to premium economy at check-in, which can be a good middle-ground solution.

Follow airlines on social media

Airlines occasionally announce flash sales or special upgrade offers through their social media channels. Following your favorite carriers on platforms like X, Instagram, or Facebook can alert you to these limited-time opportunities.

Some airlines also offer exclusive upgrade promotions to their social media followers, so it's worth staying connected with them online.

Ready to put these strategies into practice? Start by checking out flights for your next trip and consider which of these techniques might work best for your travel style and budget. Remember, even if you don't score that coveted upgrade, smart planning and the right expectations can make any flight more enjoyable.