How to get free upgrades for hotels and flights

Have you ever dreamed of flying first class or staying in a hotel's presidential suite? We have good news for you, we have found the keys that will make your wishes come true.

In this article, we talk about upgrades, those unexpected promotions that can turn an ordinary trip into a luxury experience.

But what exactly is an upgrade? It is when you can access a higher category than the one you booked without having to invest your life savings in it. Imagine, it can be anything from having a better seat on the plane, access to the VIP lounge at the airport or a room with a sea view. You may be wondering, how is it possible to do this? Although it may seem like it, it is not magic, there are tricks you can use that increase your chances of getting it.

If you want to know how to access a higher level on your trips, keep reading!

Travel by plane with all the luxuries

• Being a “frequent traveller” has its advantages: We'll tell you a secret: most of the time there are free seats in first class. On these occasions, airlines usually favour their frequent travellers, those who have accumulated the most flights, by changing their seat even if they don't ask for it. So if you take flights regularly, we recommend becoming a frequent traveller, it won't take you any time and in exchange you can get the great advantage of travelling more comfortably.
• Take advantage of overbooked flights: Everyone knows that airlines sell more tickets than are available, but how can you take advantage of overbooking? In the event of overbooking on a flight, airlines will try to compensate those affected in some way, and most likely with an upgrade. As we have previously recommended, you will have more points if you are a frequent traveller, but if the situation is extreme, you may also be the lucky one. An important recommendation: on occasions like this, your image can help, so go well-dressed just in case.
• Are you on your honeymoon? Start your trip off on a high note: If you're married and on your honeymoon, or if it's your birthday or another special occasion, let it slip quietly at the check-in counter. Airlines are also excited about these kinds of celebrations and sometimes want to help out with an upgrade. Just try and see what happen!
• Last-minute deals: Sometimes waiting until the last minute can be effective. When business class seats are available, airlines put them on sale at a lower price so more people can try out this service. It's an inexpensive way to upgrade. So keep an eye on your email and phone, because these are the ways they use to communicate this.

Secrets to getting the best hotel room

• Join the hotel loyalty program: Just like on aeroplanes, hotels, especially big hotel groups, also have their own loyalty program. Their way of appreciating repeat customers can be anything from free upgrades, early check-in or breakfasts at no extra cost. Being a loyal customer can receive many benefits and the best thing is that doing so will not take you any time or money.
• Book a mid-range room: It is clear that if you book the cheapest room it will be unlikely that you will be upgraded to a suite. However, by booking a mid-range room the chances increase. In case they have free rooms or the reception staff is having a good day, you can go from the ordinary to a luxury experience.
• Take advantage of days with less occupancy: From Monday to Thursday hotels usually have fewer guests, so it is more likely that if you ask for a better room, they will give it to you. Be friendly, wear a smile and ask politely for an upgrade, it is possible!
• Look for newly opened hotels: The big hotel chains eat up the market, which is why new additions have a hard time starting to receive clients. New hotels are your trump card for obtaining an upgrade; they will be willing to offer it to you in order to gain your trust and ensure future reservations or recommendations from you.

Don't wait to be a millionaire to feel like one. Take advantage of these tricks, be polite, have a positive attitude, and you'll be closer to getting an upgrade!

You may also need some luck...just in case, here it is. Good luck and keep dreaming big!