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trip expert and CEO at Stasher, Jacob Wedderburn-Day, shared his best tips to be with Express.co.uk upgraded to first class without spending an extra pound, and according to the expert, one of the most effective ways is “just ask for it.”
Jacob explained, “As the saying goes, if you don’t ask, you don’t get it. It may seem obvious, but simply asking is the best first step to getting an upgrade. Often airlines overbook economy seats. to make sure every flight is full and earn money.
“They’re betting that not everyone shows up, but sometimes they’re left with too many travelers for the available seats. When checking in, tell the attendant you’re interested in an upgrade. You can always ask at the gate again or they’ll say that there is no chance. The worst thing they can say is no.”
Passengers should be “polite and humble”, which the expert says is the “key” to bump into.
He said: “You don’t want to appear demanding or entitled. Be kind and let them know you’d appreciate an upgrade, especially if it’s a special occasion. This won’t always result in an upgrade, but you might get one free glass of champagne and special in-flight treatment.”
READ MORE: Passengers must ‘avoid’ certain clothing if they want a free upgrade
The travel expert also advised passengers to “dress the role,” especially if they plan to ask the flight attendant for an upgrade.
Jacob said that “for paying customers in first class, there are certain rules to look presentable,” meaning those who want to be moved to first class must dress as well.
Being well-dressed doesn’t mean travelers should wear a three-piece suit, or a dress suitable for Ascot, according to the expert, but “you should avoid wearing anything too casual, such as sportswear”.
Based on the expert’s experience, sportswear such as loungewear, gym shorts, hoodies or leggings, which are very popular pieces of clothing and which passengers often wear for flying, should be avoided on the plane at all costs. He concluded, “Smart casual will do the trick if you’re looking to increase your chances of an upgrade.”
NOT MISSING
Early check-in at the airport counter is also essential to increase the chance of an upgrade, because if the flight is overbooked, passengers can arrange a first-class seat at the check-in counter.
However, it is important that travelers do not check in online first and before going to the airport they should check the page where they can reserve a seat.
“This allows you to see how full your flight is (and the risk of overbooking), which you can then discuss with the person at the check-in desk,” explains Jacob.
If the flight reaches full capacity once personal check-in has begun, the airline may need to bump someone to first class and will likely pick someone who has already checked in.
READ MORE: Pilot urges elderly passengers to avoid window seats as higher risk
Another tactic for getting bumped into the plane is to always choose the middle seat, which is the worst seat. Flight attendants will likely choose middle seat passengers for an upgrade rather than those in a window seat or in the emergency exit line with extra legroom.
Jacob explained: “If you don’t like the uncertainty of waiting until a few hours before your flight to check in, make sure you choose the middle seat.
“Airlines are more likely to upgrade passengers sitting in the middle seat as it is generally considered the least desirable place to sit. So if you don’t mind being squeezed in between two other people, it could be worth booking those seats.”
Jacob urged passengers not to pre-order a special meal if they want to increase their chances of an upgrade, as planes carry the exact amount of vegetarian, vegan and other special meals on board, so the option chosen by the passengers may not be available in first class.
He stated: “Ordering a special meal on board in advance can destroy your upgrade potential. Flights rarely carry more food than they need, especially for upper class seats where food is more expensive. Consider bringing your own food board to take if you seriously want to be in a better class,” advised the travel expert.
According to Jacob, the travel time of passengers can also affect the chances of an upgrade on the plane, as if the flight is empty, there is no need to offer an upgrade.
He explained: “Airlines are more likely to offer upgrades when the flight is full or nearly full.
“This means you’re more likely to get an upgrade if you’re traveling during peak times, such as school holidays or weekends. You’re also more likely to get an upgrade if you’re flying on a popular route. Be aware that the airlines can also do more during these periods charge for an upgrade.”
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