Swap the smooth clink of champagne glasses for the sounds of sobbing babies
Flying first class conjures us images of relaxation, privacy, and magnificent legroom. Unfortunately, the average passenger's price range includes wailing kids rather than the quiet clink of champagne glasses.
Flyers with elite airline status or airline-specific credit cards can easily upgrade to first class. However, what about the rest of us? Even if you buy an economy ticket, there are several practical ways to get a first-class upgrade without paying full price. Here are the greatest strategies for increasing your chances of upgrading to first class for the price of an economy ticket.
Book economy flight first, then upgrade
Our number one piece of advice is to start low and work your way up. Don't buy your first-class ticket in advance. It is more cost-effective to purchase an economy ticket first and then upgrade. You may do it right now, or you can risk missing out on cheaper upgrade alternatives at the last minute (more on that below).
Redeeming miles and points is the cheapest option to get an upgrade, but you must have already accumulated all of those miles and points. We'll go through the benefits of airline loyalty again later, but for now, let's suppose you haven't yet acquired those benefits.
Risk a last-minute upgrade
Surprise: Airlines strive to make as much money as they can. If they have available first-class tickets, they'll try to offer you an upgrade—likely at a lower price than what you would have paid when you purchased your seat in the first place.
The danger of waiting for a last-minute deal is that there may be no upgrades available. However, if you're ready to accept the risk of remaining in economy class, the last-minute upgrade will be the cheapest option. Big gain, high risk.
Bidding is something you should try your hand at
While not accessible on all major airlines, some do provide a bidding mechanism for first-class upgrades. This bidding is similar to a blind auction in that you set your price for an upgrade and then hope that it is the best offer among your fellow passengers. Of course, if you win, you must be willing to pay the price. Check out the Points Guy's guide on bidding for a flight upgrade if your next flight includes a bidding option.
Be adaptable in your vacation arrangements
My travels are regularly disrupted, whether due to bad weather, technological difficulties, or airlines overbooking their flights. Airlines frequently offer upgrades for flights departing at various times or going to different locations to please passengers (or encourage them to give up seats). Take advantage of their offer and seek a reduced or free upgrade on the new flight if you can afford to change your schedule. Make it obvious that you (respectfully) anticipate an upgrade when you do so. You may say something like, "I can afford to give up my ticket on this flight if I can get a first-class seat on [the following] aircraft."
Study several flying routes
Don't expect your airline to overbook your flight. Consider flying in and out of different airports at different times during your first booking. Flying off-season or mid-week at smaller airports may result in lower fares. Furthermore, the fewer tickets booked on the aircraft, the better your chances of receiving an upgrade (especially one of those last-minute ones).
Begin earning points right away
If you truly want to acquire premium tickets at the greatest costs, you should choose a favorite airline and join their rewards program. Miles, points, and elite rank will all contribute to preferential treatment in the future. For example, American AAdvantage Executive Platinum members get free domestic upgrades, while all Delta Medallion elite members get free upgrades (granted in order of elite status level). Sign up now to invest in those benefits.
Scams should be avoided
Setting up ticket alerts is a real method to save money, but be aware of any third-party mileage brokers that offer to purchase and sell your points. If you wish to buy points, it's best to do so straight from the airline.
Last-minute reminders to improve your chances
If you match the following criteria, you are more likely to receive an upgrade:
- Fly by yourself. It is more easier to improve one individual than it is to manage a family. If you are going with a group, be sure you book separately so that you have a higher chance of receiving an upgrade. Everyone is out for himself.
- Plan flights with fewer passengers. When purchasing a ticket, you can see how full it is, and the more seats that remain vacant in first class, the stronger the upgrade incentives as the airline seeks to fill them.
- Be among the first to arrive. Checking in as soon as possible (usually 24 hours before departure) increases your chances of securing whatever first class tickets are available that the airline wishes to sell immediately before your journey.
- Alternatively, be the absolute last person standing. As previously said, arriving late allows you to take advantage of last-minute upgrades that the airline is trying to sell. Again, this is a hazardous strategy, and you would be better off obtaining your economy seat first and then asking at the gate if any upgrades are available. That being said...
- Make a polite request. It may seem obvious, but a little human compassion may go a long way.
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