I Tried most of them and all of them worked for me. Some more than once, some just once. Auction for Upgrade, overbook upgrades (I also offered to stay behind and got once 800 USD as a reward (plus hotel, Plus meal) and got to flight the day after since I had no stress with it.
I got an upgrade once for delta. I went to the gate agent and I said it’s totally okay if not but I was wondering if there were any free upgrades available? And they did it for free!! Made my day.
That used to happen….Delta has gone down hill and you can see it with their gate agents, who barely greet loyal delta fliers with a smile, never mind the thank you they used to give. Perhaps AI will be friendlier 😂
- Set alarm for earliest check in - Row 13 - Middle seat for solo traveler - Window & aisle seats for couple - Loyalty to 1 airline leads to free upgrade and other perks - Use expert flyer - Ask for an upgrade; get there earlier, dress nicer - Claim ur spot - Bid on business or first class seat - Ask for bulkhead seat - Seat guru - Early morning & overnight flights - Middle of the plane if u dont like turbulane - Special meal; vegan, gluten free, etc - Travel rewards credit cards
Being a girl too. 😂 Whenenever I have a middle seat , (domestic flight ) I always get an aile or window from the staff end. Always! That too without paying an extra amount. 😂 Idk how it happens.
This may or may not be a hack!- Funny thing is, I didn’t know I was getting first class when I did it. The boarding crew called for 3 people to give up their seats 💺 in exchange for a voucher. Me my mom and sister waited until the voucher was at a decent price before we went over to the desk to volunteer. We walked up and stated we were interested in the offer and we agreed to give up our seats and get on the next plane that was leaving in about 5 hours. Well, we were given our new boarding passes and I noticed the seats were all low numbers. I got excited and said to my sister are we in first class now?? She investigated the boarding pass and sure enough we were!!! We thanked the ticket agent!! And he said because we were the only ppl to volunteer we helped a family stay together so they could 🧳 travel. You can use this trick if your flexible with your traveling like we were and negotiate for first class. We didn’t even ask for it and was given it out of the kindness of the booking agents heart at the gate 😊
Five of my colleagues were on a 13 hrs flight. Three of them were lucky to be given first class passes instead of economy. They were told the reason was because only few seated were taken in 1st class.
Thank you. These principles are not just for air travel, but for life’s journey. 😀 Upgrades do happen. Never say never. Just be joyful, nicely dressed, look professional. Be kind, respectfully ask, and the universe (not just the gate agents) will give you, nay reward you with better options. Peace. 🙏🙏
The overnight flight discount does not exist for Trans-Atlantic. Those flights to Europe are the usual price because that's just how trans-Atlantic is. The majority of those flights leave in the evening (Depending on the route and if there are layovers). The earliest I can ever recall was like 5:00pm the latest was around 11:00pm. Plus, status and original ticket purchased get considered first over a random person showing up to the check-in desk and just asking.
If the flight is overbooked, some airlines hesitate to upgrade passengers with a special meal (last minute). They cannot organize a business or a first-class option at short notice and they are unwilling to serve economy meals in business class.
A couple weeks ago I was flying Vancouver BC to Manila. When I was flying EVA Air. When I checked in I was bumped up to Premium Economy without even asking. It was a surprise and turned out to a nice comfortable flight. From now on I will book premium going forward.
I have upgraded to first on a couple airlines when the upgrade fees were fairly cheap to do so. IF they had open seats, then I was upgraded after paying the fee (this was before business classes, there was just first and economy then).
@@hopscotchtheglobe well this was years ago, the 90s, and the fees for Alaska were I believe $25 one way, and for Hawaiian it was $125 one way to upgrade if they had seats available in first. I can imagine it is MUCH more expensive today. I just asked when checking in if any upgrades were available.
Thank you for sharing! I found your video very informative and practically doable. I have a few flights coming up. I will try some of the hacks you shared.
do you need a diagnosis because its literal pain for me to not be able to reposition my leg (i always sleep on my side with one leg up for this reason)
Leg pain can be a sign of lymphodema or lipoedema. Besides, not moving your legs for long periods can cause thrombosis, so we should all be moving, not just those with RLS.
When I flew from Manila to Kuwait I was informed at the gate that my Economy seat had been changed to Business Class. I had signed to the Airlines Frequent Flyer program and also my flight was at 11.05am.
@@hopscotchtheglobehappened to me last week on my flight back to San Diego from Manila with Emirates. It was high season, so booked economy (2100 usd!) Heard good things about Emirates and wanted to try this airline. Glad I booked with them because I was upgraded to premium on the long Dubai to Houston flight. It was a nice, comfortable experience albeit long. Thank you, Emirates!
Thank you so much for this comment. It's definitely not easy to put so much work and effort into our content and not get the views I'd hope for. Would love and appreciate any feedback or suggestions on what YOU think would make them better. Are they too long? Not entertaining enough? I'd love to know so we can make them even better. I appreciate you being here :)
@@hopscotchtheglobe it’s just long enough. I had a channel analysis from my partner manager in YT earlier so I learn a lot from her and maybe it’s the title and thumbnail! I really hope u become big like nate and kara
Tried to bid a business class seat when I flew to New Zealand this February. Yes, the airline (Fiji) did send out a notice about the bidding but it has a floor (minimum bid) so you can just say let me try to upgrade for a few hundred dollars. Since the flight has two legs with a layover in Fiji, I would have to bid for each leg. I added up the minimum bid required and it cost more had I booked the business class in the first place. At least in this incident, this does not work at all.
It really depends on the airline and the route for sure. It's not always the best option but sometimes it is. I bidded on a flight that was 5 hours and it cost me $100 extra and I got it. In this case, it was definitely cheaper to go this way... BUT not guaranteed...more luck of the draw
I hold a platinum status with American Airlines, usually every year because of regular travel for work. I can tell you that your trick to upgrade to business class or first class will NEVER happen, no matter how nice you dress up or how irresistible you make yourself to the agents, specially for busy routes where a lot of business travelers frequent. I am always on the list for an upgrade because of my status. And usually, even if I'm # 1, 2 or 3 on the list, I still don't get upgraded because there are always many more members that have a higher status than me. These business travelers spend lots of $$$$ week after week to fly to work. There is just absolutely no way a gate agent would bump someone with a high elite status just because a person who bought an economy ticket went up to ask for an upgrade, dressed nicely, spoke so eloquently and winked at the agent. Not going to happen!
I included this because it's happened to me twice. I also know other people who it worked for. So it can happen. It also depends on the airline and how full the flight is.
should I avoid flying basic economy to gain PQP with United? I just opened a United credit card and the fare difference between basic and regular economy is large
Thank you for sharing these tips! We're flying with a baby and toddler from YOW to SFO next week and have been using your videos as "study material" to prepare. You're reducing my stress quite a bit! I've been following for years, and always appreciate your content.
there are no free lunches. I travel ALOT and every flight I've been on is FULL. Especially business class. All those old stories about dressing nice and being a frequent flier getting you an upgrade are bs.
Yeah, things have changed after covid, sadly for worse. It's more expensive than ever for the exact same thing. I hope things chałkę for better and cheaper soon cause flying is miserable right now.
Trick for getting the best fare. I go to a third-party booking engine ghat shows all the airlines rates. Then I go to the airline I selected and look at their rates. Often they are not the same, plus airlines block seats and won't allow you to pick them is you booked through third-party sites. Also, grab the seat you want when you book. You can always change it when you check in but you don't risk getting a bad seat by waiting.
Also if you check in early you will be less likely to be asked to give up your seat for compensation for a crew member ( deadhead ) going to another station for work . And most flight attendants will NOT allow you to change seats unless your name is added in the manifest to your changed seat assignment in case of an emergency.
Really excellent video however if your Airline belongs to the three major alliances it's usually reserved for the upper tier members unless a lower tier alliance ffq option allows you to do that
I actually got a free upgrade at the security gate with Singapore Airlines from Econ to Business class. I was the last man to cross the security check, when I handed my boarding pass to them, they scanned it and issued me a new boarding pass with business class, without even asking for it. Mention not, Im their Krisflyer Club member and it was my 4th trip with them. I wasn’t even dressed super nicely or exchanged some sweet words, except thanking them.
True, but you can pay more if you want to have the A seating priority or be sure to check in immediately when it opens to have a better chance. BUT you get 2 checked in bags for free!
Several problems that I see in this at the moment. I just booked seats for October and even though it said they were not basic economy but were higher and I could choose our seats it says that the seats will be chosen when boarding.
These are all great tips! Do you think it's still possible to get an upgrade if you booked through a third party, such as Travelocity? Thanks in advance!
It depends on how many points you have. If you don't have enough for a specific flight then it will allow you to use what you have and pay the difference. Also, you still need to pay the taxes on the flight which you cant pay with points. The best card depends where you're from. I'm Canadian and use the American Express Platiumum. The US has MUCH better travel rewards cards thought. Like the Chase Saphire for example.
@SoapBoxMediaTV Well, you might as well throw them away because I can't see ANY of these "hacks" working. If you fly all the time, you KNOW that it's extremely rare to get upgraded. My husband has Executive Platinum on AA, and flies business class 90% of the time. Even HE doesn't get upgrades to first sometimes.
This is such an incredibly informative video! I have most tried of the hacks mentioned ! But man middle seat is always booked at the last minute and we end up sitting apart from each other which is nice by the way until person sitting in the middle realizes he / she might have make a mistake choosing this seat 😆
I have been traveling internationally for 35 years Maybe these tricks worked once upon a time. Hardly does these days. Flights are full. Also, I hate it if passengers ask me to move to another seat or if they go the crew with their soppy stories and the crew ask me to change seats . So I would not ask another passenger to move for me. Have used all these tricks long before u tube ever existed , they certainly don’t work in 2023 .
I've used several of them recently and they have worked for us. Also there are other people commenting that they are working for them too. It's not 100% so I say it's always good to try because you never know.
Definitely. We did this with Avianca not too long ago. The business class seats included 2 checked pieces of luggage, 100% refundable up to 24 hours before flight and cost $100 more. It was such a great deal.
My dad has a credit card that you are rewarded with miles in American Airlines, I’m from Latinoamérica and literally all my flights to the USA in the last 5 years have been literally free, I only pay the taxes of airports, me and my family flight in that way. I recommend that
a lot of airlines/websites/apps now block you from doing the "couple books isle and window seat", unless you actually book the tickets totally separately
I had a points card for a particular airline we used exclusively for over 10 years. When I had enough points for a free flight and tried to redeem the points, $350 of the points went to service fees and processing, I basically only got about $350 off a $700 flight . Never again will I waist my time on points card or loyalty.
Which card was it? That seems odd. It might be because the card you have isn't great. There are several I'd recommend depending on where you are in the world
Yes! That's the best one all of my full time travel friends use. They often have sign up deals where you can double or triple the points. So I'd wait for that to come around.
If your card has the option for a statement credit, just use that (unless you get more from each for travel purchases). I just book an $800 flight, then redeem $800 in statement credit. No service or processing fees that way.
At least here in Europe, fee for extra leg space seat is usually not much, usually something like $25. Instead of setting up alarm 2 days before departure, it's worth paying it if you're tall or have knee or feet problems.
There is no way to be upgraded to first class if you didn't book business, or to business if you didn't book premium economy. So if you have the cheap economy ticket, no free upgrades. Plus biding for upgrade, yes, you can bid anything you feel comfortable, but, at least for international flights, you should bid at least $600 to have a chance. In some cases (including domestic flights) it's almost paying double money for your ticket (if you booked early and got a good price in economy) Regarding meals, you are right, special meals are getting served first, not always the best meal. Some airlines do not give you a choice for regular meal, so it doesn't matter if you are first or last. And talking about meals, this is only on international flights (if you fly from US to Canada it is considered domestic flight)
@@saranyawongchai I have received emails in the past from Emirates and Qatar and my husband from Lufthansa. I started flying Delta recently so I don't know what is their policy
@1:57 has this ever happened to you people intentionally choose the window or the aisle no one's switching with you if you ask them. Although you're cute and you're young so maybe it works
been upgraded once to business class at the gate on an overbooked LH flight while having ordered a special meal! They did ask me if I’d accept the upgrade with a normal meal, of course I said yes! So perhaps it depends on the particular airline and their policy, I think LH handled this well
No. Nowadays ask people to switch seat can make them angry. Everyone pays extra to get a seat they want, including myself. That's rude asking. The best bet is speaking to airlines staff not the traveller. I heard that some people asking a switch so their group can sit together close. What kind of people like that. Just pay your preferred seat or go to cry with the flight attendant for luck, but do not ask any of your fellow travelers.
I used to get bumped up to business class all the time on KLM due to my loyalty status when planes weren't full all the time as they are now. It's still happens from time to time, but it's rare compared to 7+ years ago
I've found that business class tends to be full most of the time now, compared to before when it was almost never full. I'm talking about long haul flights, not short hops in Europe
@@hopscotchtheglobe I believe it's because planes are more crowded now, so people pay extra for peace and comfort. I've paid for some business class tickets myself from UK to South Africa, because in the past I could always find two or three seat free next to each other to stretch out on, but not anymore so it's not fun being in economy for a 12 hour flight anymore
The upgrade advice does not work. You even admit it happened 2 times in 10 years! Post Covid, flights are over sold and the waiting list for legit upgrades to first class are always in double digits. You are better off buying early if you can and secure a decent price for first class.
I and my husband once got an upgrade. It was interesting, we were flying with a short flight before layover and then long, from Europe to Asia. We were told to get new boarding pass at a transfer desk and when we did guy said to my husband "are you traveling in business today? " we didn't get it and he replied "no, just vacation". Then we moved on and later found out our new boarding passes were business class. It was ethiad, perhaps?I don't remember. It was very nice experience and a complete surprise
Unless you a frequent flyer and pay with miles or pay the offer to purchase an upgrade before a flight on Qatar, there’s no chance of a free upgrade, they are extremely stingy.
Happened to me once on British Airways when I was traveling solo and the people next to me where taking up a lot of space and where very rude. The male flight attendant came and said hurry come with me grab your things and he took me to business class it was very nice and quite and almost empty.
I would say don't get a special meal unless you really want/need it. I used to be vegetarian and the vegetarian meal would be not only veggie but gluten free, vegan, etc... They often make one meal to cover all intolerances. So not only do you get a vegan main course, but you'll get a fruit cup instead of a brownie. Like, I still like brownies, I just didn't want the chicken.
flew an evening flight once, and after boarding, the pilot came on and said, "this is as many people as we have on board, so if anyone wants to change seats, do it, now."
Sorry to see all the rude comments here. I’m sure it’s difficult to get free upgrades but these are just tips. Thanks for sharing all this great info. I’m a shy person and it would never occur to me to just politely ask the staff if a free upgrade was available. 😊 I’m not excepting the request to yield a conversion but why not at least take a chance! Thanks once again ❤
i personally hate when people ask if i can switch the seats with them cuz they have kids, they want to sit together and etc. if you want the desired seat - pay for it, like many people do and then you do not have to worry about it.
Fine Things, I don’t think people should get nickel and dimmed. It can be expensive to have to pay for all the kid and then pay for the seats. I am not giving up my aisle seat but I would switch my middle seat. Nothing wrong with asking so people can ask and you can say no
Not only is flying more expensive when you are buying multiple tickets for kids, therefore paying for sll those seats does make it even more so... I did all that and a flight change still shuffled around our seating and we ended up not being seated together. I had to ask people if they'd be willing to switch. I really appreciate the nonjudgemental people who don't mind switching so a family can be together... especially with kids.
@@lililululalabooboo asking is fine, I guess as long as people to not act like they are entitled for others to agree to switch . I’ve encountered some looking genuinely offended when you say no .
The row 13 thing is interesting. Lol one time I was at a red sox game on friday the 13th. I didnt plan this, but I was in section 13, row 13, seat 13. One of the lens popped out of the glasses in the 9th inning lol. Coincidence?
I am going to fly with my 3 years old girl next month in economy, and i have a big stress because that is a 20 hours flight including 2 hours stay . Its pretty long flight , I don’t know how i am going to manage this 😢
I agree that most airline food sucks. BUT I do think all the vegan meals I've gotten have been way better and some airlines have pretty good food...just not many.
I have seen Cathy Pacific intentionally not upgrade any economy passengers to premium economy, while it has at least 5 or 6 empty seats on international long haul flight. Maybe they don’t want to upset any passengers paying full price for the expensive seat ( at least $1,000 more)?
I got an upgrade to business, together with my son und husband, because I was broke my ankle in my Egypt vacation. 🙈 We flew with Turkish from Sharm to Istanbul. But my plaster cast was checked several times for drugs. 🤷🏻♀️
Have you tried any of these hacks to upgrade your flying experience?
I have tired the first to check-in and gotten free upgrades a few times, that one does work.
You didn't mention simply not booking and paying for a seat for your confirmed reservation. I think that you would be given a seat at no charge.
@@tamaratravels44 was that online or in person
It’s bullshit.
I Tried most of them and all of them worked for me. Some more than once, some just once. Auction for Upgrade, overbook upgrades (I also offered to stay behind and got once 800 USD as a reward (plus hotel, Plus meal) and got to flight the day after since I had no stress with it.
I got an upgrade once for delta. I went to the gate agent and I said it’s totally okay if not but I was wondering if there were any free upgrades available? And they did it for free!! Made my day.
Amazing! Many people think this will never happen but when it does it feels like winning the jackpot haha
That used to happen….Delta has gone down hill and you can see it with their gate agents, who barely greet loyal delta fliers with a smile, never mind the thank you they used to give. Perhaps AI will be friendlier 😂
Omgoodness!!!!
- Set alarm for earliest check in
- Row 13
- Middle seat for solo traveler
- Window & aisle seats for couple
- Loyalty to 1 airline leads to free upgrade and other perks
- Use expert flyer
- Ask for an upgrade; get there earlier, dress nicer
- Claim ur spot
- Bid on business or first class seat
- Ask for bulkhead seat
- Seat guru
- Early morning & overnight flights
- Middle of the plane if u dont like turbulane
- Special meal; vegan, gluten free, etc
- Travel rewards credit cards
Quite the summary, well done 🎉🎉
@@arnoldlatsha5532 5 months later reading my comment myself, Im amazed too! 😂 I must have been so bored! Lol 😆
Ty!!!!@@artsyhyd
Being a girl too. 😂 Whenenever I have a middle seat , (domestic flight ) I always get an aile or window from the staff end. Always! That too without paying an extra amount. 😂 Idk how it happens.
the hero we needed
The actual tip in here for a free upgrade to business is basically a miracle.
Clickbait...
This may or may not be a hack!- Funny thing is, I didn’t know I was getting first class when I did it. The boarding crew called for 3 people to give up their seats 💺 in exchange for a voucher. Me my mom and sister waited until the voucher was at a decent price before we went over to the desk to volunteer. We walked up and stated we were interested in the offer and we agreed to give up our seats and get on the next plane that was leaving in about 5 hours. Well, we were given our new boarding passes and I noticed the seats were all low numbers. I got excited and said to my sister are we in first class now?? She investigated the boarding pass and sure enough we were!!! We thanked the ticket agent!! And he said because we were the only ppl to volunteer we helped a family stay together so they could 🧳 travel. You can use this trick if your flexible with your traveling like we were and negotiate for first class. We didn’t even ask for it and was given it out of the kindness of the booking agents heart at the gate 😊
I love this story so much! Thanks for sharing
You deserved it ...... Kindness is king!
Five of my colleagues were on a 13 hrs flight. Three of them were lucky to be given first class passes instead of economy. They were told the reason was because only few seated were taken in 1st class.
I@@Ahmed-dx9in
Absolutely fantastic!
Thank you. These principles are not just for air travel, but for life’s journey. 😀
Upgrades do happen. Never say never. Just be joyful, nicely dressed, look professional. Be kind, respectfully ask, and the universe (not just the gate agents) will give you, nay reward you with better options.
Peace. 🙏🙏
Couldn't agree more!
The overnight flight discount does not exist for Trans-Atlantic. Those flights to Europe are the usual price because that's just how trans-Atlantic is. The majority of those flights leave in the evening (Depending on the route and if there are layovers). The earliest I can ever recall was like 5:00pm the latest was around 11:00pm. Plus, status and original ticket purchased get considered first over a random person showing up to the check-in desk and just asking.
If the flight is overbooked, some airlines hesitate to upgrade passengers with a special meal (last minute). They cannot organize a business or a first-class option at short notice and they are unwilling to serve economy meals in business class.
It's actually detrimental to getting an upgrade.
They have better meal options in Business class
A couple weeks ago I was flying Vancouver BC to Manila. When I was flying EVA Air. When I checked in I was bumped up to Premium Economy without even asking. It was a surprise and turned out to a nice comfortable flight. From now on I will book premium going forward.
Yes! It's awesome what a little upgrade can really do to enhance your whole travel experience.
EVA is known for their premium economy seats.
The planes are always full today, doesn't matter the time of day. Fly all the time.
I have upgraded to first on a couple airlines when the upgrade fees were fairly cheap to do so. IF they had open seats, then I was upgraded after paying the fee (this was before business classes, there was just first and economy then).
What were the fees like? Did you bid or just go to the front desk and ask to pay for the upgrade?
@@hopscotchtheglobe well this was years ago, the 90s, and the fees for Alaska were I believe $25 one way, and for Hawaiian it was $125 one way to upgrade if they had seats available in first. I can imagine it is MUCH more expensive today. I just asked when checking in if any upgrades were available.
Thank you for sharing!
I found your video very informative and practically doable. I have a few flights coming up. I will try some of the hacks you shared.
Great info, especially about the upgrades to 1st and business class. Thanks!
One thing: Restless leg syndrome is not a made-up BS reason folks may need certain seats. It’s a miserable and very real diagnosis.
do you need a diagnosis because its literal pain for me to not be able to reposition my leg (i always sleep on my side with one leg up for this reason)
@@spaceship7011 ask your doctor at your next visit.
did you try sleeping with a bar of soap in your bed??? old wives tales shown to work with 80% of people worked for me.
Leg pain can be a sign of lymphodema or lipoedema.
Besides, not moving your legs for long periods can cause thrombosis, so we should all be moving, not just those with RLS.
Have you considered amputation just in case it spreads?
Overnight flights are no longer cheap or empty, we fly often and the most packed flights are overnight
IKR? The last time I had a row to myself was in the late 90's, flights are always overbooked now.
Which flights are nowadays empty? When a route is not working the airline is adjusting the schedule immediately, otherwise they lose money.
When I flew from Manila to Kuwait I was informed at the gate that my Economy seat had been changed to Business Class. I had signed to the Airlines Frequent Flyer program and also my flight was at 11.05am.
Isn't that one of the best things to hear? It's like a kid opening a present on Christmas morning to find the things they've wanted so badly haha
Sorry my flight was 11.05pm. It was still an experience I will not forget though. 😊
@@hopscotchtheglobehappened to me last week on my flight back to San Diego from Manila with Emirates. It was high season, so booked economy (2100 usd!) Heard good things about Emirates and wanted to try this airline. Glad I booked with them because I was upgraded to premium on the long Dubai to Houston flight. It was a nice, comfortable experience albeit long. Thank you, Emirates!
I love your videos and I've been a silent viewer but I feel sad on how underrated you are! I hope you shine once more!!! thanks for thiese vids!!
Thank you so much for this comment. It's definitely not easy to put so much work and effort into our content and not get the views I'd hope for. Would love and appreciate any feedback or suggestions on what YOU think would make them better. Are they too long? Not entertaining enough? I'd love to know so we can make them even better. I appreciate you being here :)
@@hopscotchtheglobe it’s just long enough. I had a channel analysis from my partner manager in YT earlier so I learn a lot from her and maybe it’s the title and thumbnail! I really hope u become big like nate and kara
Thank you :)
Tried to bid a business class seat when I flew to New Zealand this February. Yes, the airline (Fiji) did send out a notice about the bidding but it has a floor (minimum bid) so you can just say let me try to upgrade for a few hundred dollars. Since the flight has two legs with a layover in Fiji, I would have to bid for each leg. I added up the minimum bid required and it cost more had I booked the business class in the first place. At least in this incident, this does not work at all.
It really depends on the airline and the route for sure. It's not always the best option but sometimes it is. I bidded on a flight that was 5 hours and it cost me $100 extra and I got it. In this case, it was definitely cheaper to go this way... BUT not guaranteed...more luck of the draw
Once i get past check in, i love the travel.
Yesss! Do you ever go to airport lounges?
Some great ideas here, thank you. Unfortunately a lot of upgrades now are based on status with the airline. They still do happen though so go for it.
I hold a platinum status with American Airlines, usually every year because of regular travel for work. I can tell you that your trick to upgrade to business class or first class will NEVER happen, no matter how nice you dress up or how irresistible you make yourself to the agents, specially for busy routes where a lot of business travelers frequent. I am always on the list for an upgrade because of my status. And usually, even if I'm # 1, 2 or 3 on the list, I still don't get upgraded because there are always many more members that have a higher status than me. These business travelers spend lots of $$$$ week after week to fly to work. There is just absolutely no way a gate agent would bump someone with a high elite status just because a person who bought an economy ticket went up to ask for an upgrade, dressed nicely, spoke so eloquently and winked at the agent. Not going to happen!
I included this because it's happened to me twice. I also know other people who it worked for. So it can happen. It also depends on the airline and how full the flight is.
Also as a delta platinum member, to-be-diamond next yr, totally agree with you. Will NEVER happen.
It happened to me twice also. Never say never!
I'm also an AA Platinum member and frequent flyer. I never had a free upgrade request granted and I agree the chance for it to happen is slim to none.
I was able to upgrade to Flagship Business Class last minute using 15,000 American Airlines miles.
Do these hacks work for overseas flights also?
Of course
This was great! We are going to Europe for the first time so I’ll take any tips and advice!
should I avoid flying basic economy to gain PQP with United? I just opened a United credit card and the fare difference between basic and regular economy is large
Thank you for sharing these tips! We're flying with a baby and toddler from YOW to SFO next week and have been using your videos as "study material" to prepare. You're reducing my stress quite a bit! I've been following for years, and always appreciate your content.
You are so welcome! I'm glad you feel more relaxed about your flight. It will go great! And thank you so much for kind words
I hope to G you are not sitting anywhere near me
there are no free lunches. I travel ALOT and every flight I've been on is FULL. Especially business class. All those old stories about dressing nice and being a frequent flier getting you an upgrade are bs.
Yeah, things have changed after covid, sadly for worse. It's more expensive than ever for the exact same thing. I hope things chałkę for better and cheaper soon cause flying is miserable right now.
Are you booking your tickets directly with the specific airline, or through a "reseller" like Travelocity or something?
Trick for getting the best fare. I go to a third-party booking engine ghat shows all the airlines rates. Then I go to the airline I selected and look at their rates. Often they are not the same, plus airlines block seats and won't allow you to pick them is you booked through third-party sites. Also, grab the seat you want when you book. You can always change it when you check in but you don't risk getting a bad seat by waiting.
Can i try these tips on British airways. Me and my partner are going to travel from London to India.? Is it gonna work on BA.?
Which travel rewards cards do you guys use as Canadians? Unfortunately our options aren't as great as the States!
It's true. I hope one day we can get there haha. We use the American Express Platinum as well as the Cibc Aeroplan
@@hopscotchtheglobe Wicked! We'll be checking those out, thanks so much!!
I have the Scotiabank passport visa and love it, got many flights covered by points.
No prob!
Ooooo I'll have to look into this one
Also if you check in early you will be less likely to be asked to give up your seat for compensation for a crew member ( deadhead ) going to another station for work . And most flight attendants will NOT allow you to change seats unless your name is added in the manifest to your changed seat assignment in case of an emergency.
Wonderful information. Thank you. You are the best.
Glad you enjoyed the video :)
Really excellent video however if your Airline belongs to the three major alliances it's usually reserved for the upper tier members unless a lower tier alliance ffq option allows you to do that
I actually got a free upgrade at the security gate with Singapore Airlines from Econ to Business class. I was the last man to cross the security check, when I handed my boarding pass to them, they scanned it and issued me a new boarding pass with business class, without even asking for it.
Mention not, Im their Krisflyer Club member and it was my 4th trip with them. I wasn’t even dressed super nicely or exchanged some sweet words, except thanking them.
Absolutely fantastic!
Seatguru for swiss air is not up to date because I had difficulty in selecting premium economy seat
Good video, I will tried your suggestion out. Thanks you 😊
Southwest Airlines does not have the option to pick your seat online.
True, but you can pay more if you want to have the A seating priority or be sure to check in immediately when it opens to have a better chance. BUT you get 2 checked in bags for free!
Several problems that I see in this at the moment. I just booked seats for October and even though it said they were not basic economy but were higher and I could choose our seats it says that the seats will be chosen when boarding.
Thanks for the awesome tips-feeling like a pro traveler already!
That’s awesome to hear!
These are all great tips! Do you think it's still possible to get an upgrade if you booked through a third party, such as Travelocity? Thanks in advance!
I've always had to pay extra to use my miles- it was never free- are they better cards?
It depends on how many points you have. If you don't have enough for a specific flight then it will allow you to use what you have and pay the difference. Also, you still need to pay the taxes on the flight which you cant pay with points. The best card depends where you're from. I'm Canadian and use the American Express Platiumum. The US has MUCH better travel rewards cards thought. Like the Chase Saphire for example.
Wow. First UA-cam video I actually had to take notes. Thanks.
You're very welcome! We have many other travel hacks and tips on our channel plus plenty of travel vlogs and videos. Where you traveling to next?
@SoapBoxMediaTV Well, you might as well throw them away because I can't see ANY of these "hacks" working. If you fly all the time, you KNOW that it's extremely rare to get upgraded. My husband has Executive Platinum on AA, and flies business class 90% of the time. Even HE doesn't get upgrades to first sometimes.
This is such an incredibly informative video! I have most tried of the hacks mentioned ! But man middle seat is always booked at the last minute and we end up sitting apart from each other which is nice by the way until person sitting in the middle realizes he / she might have make a mistake choosing this seat 😆
I have been traveling internationally for 35 years Maybe these tricks worked once upon a time. Hardly does these days. Flights are full. Also, I hate it if passengers ask me to move to another seat or if they go the crew with their soppy stories and the crew ask me to change seats . So I would not ask another passenger to move for me. Have used all these tricks long before u tube ever existed , they certainly don’t work in 2023 .
I've used several of them recently and they have worked for us. Also there are other people commenting that they are working for them too. It's not 100% so I say it's always good to try because you never know.
What is the best US Airline for getting upgrades ?
If you have planned ahead to get a specific seat or paid extra for it, I would not relinquish it unless I was being upgraded.
If paying for upgrade is still a good price than paying for that first class seat when booking, I would do that instead of bidding.
Definitely. We did this with Avianca not too long ago. The business class seats included 2 checked pieces of luggage, 100% refundable up to 24 hours before flight and cost $100 more. It was such a great deal.
Thank you very much. This is exactly what I needed. ❤❤❤❤
Booking the middle seat rarely works. Booking window and aisle as a couple also rarely works unfortunately
Which number seats are aisles in the plane
been traveling for years. tried all of these and more... got one upgrde on a 2 hour flight in US....
it doesn't sound worth it imo
For first class only way up is points. Or pay for it
My dad has a credit card that you are rewarded with miles in American Airlines, I’m from Latinoamérica and literally all my flights to the USA in the last 5 years have been literally free, I only pay the taxes of airports, me and my family flight in that way. I recommend that
a lot of airlines/websites/apps now block you from doing the "couple books isle and window seat", unless you actually book the tickets totally separately
I had a points card for a particular airline we used exclusively for over 10 years. When I had enough points for a free flight and tried to redeem the points, $350 of the points went to service fees and processing, I basically only got about $350 off a $700 flight . Never again will I waist my time on points card or loyalty.
Which card was it? That seems odd. It might be because the card you have isn't great. There are several I'd recommend depending on where you are in the world
@@hopscotchtheglobe Which card would you recommend for someone in California (USA)? I was considering the Chase Sapphire visa card.
Yes! That's the best one all of my full time travel friends use. They often have sign up deals where you can double or triple the points. So I'd wait for that to come around.
If your card has the option for a statement credit, just use that (unless you get more from each for travel purchases). I just book an $800 flight, then redeem $800 in statement credit. No service or processing fees that way.
I got a free business class ticket LA to Sydney Qantas me and hubby with mine. One world .....I usually fly emerites.
At least here in Europe, fee for extra leg space seat is usually not much, usually something like $25. Instead of setting up alarm 2 days before departure, it's worth paying it if you're tall or have knee or feet problems.
There is no way to be upgraded to first class if you didn't book business, or to business if you didn't book premium economy. So if you have the cheap economy ticket, no free upgrades.
Plus biding for upgrade, yes, you can bid anything you feel comfortable, but, at least for international flights, you should bid at least $600 to have a chance. In some cases (including domestic flights) it's almost paying double money for your ticket (if you booked early and got a good price in economy)
Regarding meals, you are right, special meals are getting served first, not always the best meal. Some airlines do not give you a choice for regular meal, so it doesn't matter if you are first or last. And talking about meals, this is only on international flights (if you fly from US to Canada it is considered domestic flight)
I never receive emails for bidding. We fly delta all the time. Is this just certain airlines?
@@saranyawongchai I have received emails in the past from Emirates and Qatar and my husband from Lufthansa. I started flying Delta recently so I don't know what is their policy
Where to get expertflyer?
@1:57 has this ever happened to you people intentionally choose the window or the aisle no one's switching with you if you ask them. Although you're cute and you're young so maybe it works
Just FYI, working for airlines. If you book a special meal, the change of you being upgraded almost decreases to 0
Really? Very interesting. Why is that?
been upgraded once to business class at the gate on an overbooked LH flight while having ordered a special meal! They did ask me if I’d accept the upgrade with a normal meal, of course I said yes! So perhaps it depends on the particular airline and their policy, I think LH handled this well
That's so awesome! I'm sure it was a great flight.
I can try to do all of your suggestions, will it work for party of 4 to be bumped from premium economy to business class?😊
No. Nowadays ask people to switch seat can make them angry. Everyone pays extra to get a seat they want, including myself. That's rude asking. The best bet is speaking to airlines staff not the traveller. I heard that some people asking a switch so their group can sit together close. What kind of people like that. Just pay your preferred seat or go to cry with the flight attendant for luck, but do not ask any of your fellow travelers.
Thanks for the video, good tips.
You're very welcome!
Last time I flew, there were indeed seats not yet assigned at check-in time. And their cost was even more than at time of purchase!
Really very useful information... All is well🎉❤
Thanks a lot 😊 Glad you enjoyed the vide. Hope you like our others as well.
I used to get bumped up to business class all the time on KLM due to my loyalty status when planes weren't full all the time as they are now. It's still happens from time to time, but it's rare compared to 7+ years ago
Do you still have status?
Yes, I travel regularly for work
I've found that business class tends to be full most of the time now, compared to before when it was almost never full. I'm talking about long haul flights, not short hops in Europe
I wonder if its because more people are traveling for work and have status too or their business class tickets are more affordable.
@@hopscotchtheglobe I believe it's because planes are more crowded now, so people pay extra for peace and comfort. I've paid for some business class tickets myself from UK to South Africa, because in the past I could always find two or three seat free next to each other to stretch out on, but not anymore so it's not fun being in economy for a 12 hour flight anymore
The upgrade advice does not work. You even admit it happened 2 times in 10 years! Post Covid, flights are over sold and the waiting list for legit upgrades to first class are always in double digits. You are better off buying early if you can and secure a decent price for first class.
I offer 10 different ways to get an upgrade. If one doesn't work you can always try another.
I and my husband once got an upgrade. It was interesting, we were flying with a short flight before layover and then long, from Europe to Asia. We were told to get new boarding pass at a transfer desk and when we did guy said to my husband "are you traveling in business today? " we didn't get it and he replied "no, just vacation". Then we moved on and later found out our new boarding passes were business class. It was ethiad, perhaps?I don't remember. It was very nice experience and a complete surprise
Those are the best surprises! That just happened to me recently too :)
Unless you a frequent flyer and pay with miles or pay the offer to purchase an upgrade before a flight on Qatar, there’s no chance of a free upgrade, they are extremely stingy.
Flying in June will try your tips.
Where are you traveling to?
@@hopscotchtheglobe Travelling to Dubai in June.
Thx a lot for Your tips:). I did subscribe instantly ;).Regards from Europe.
That's so great to hear! Welcome to our awesome travel community:)
Thank you so much!
Happened to me once on British Airways when I was traveling solo and the people next to me where taking up a lot of space and where very rude. The male flight attendant came and said hurry come with me grab your things and he took me to business class it was very nice and quite and almost empty.
Thanks for trick and tips,beautiful video
You're very welcome
Anyone have experience on Norse Atlantic with getting upgrades??
I would say don't get a special meal unless you really want/need it. I used to be vegetarian and the vegetarian meal would be not only veggie but gluten free, vegan, etc... They often make one meal to cover all intolerances. So not only do you get a vegan main course, but you'll get a fruit cup instead of a brownie. Like, I still like brownies, I just didn't want the chicken.
Great hacks! Thank you
You're very welcome :)
After Covid many airlines are not fully functioning and most are actually super full. No chance of any type of upgrade.
We did 13 and window isle brilliant
Thanks for the tips. We always look for ways to get upgrades. None for free yet but 🤞🏽
You're very welcome! It takes that trip to the next level when it starts with a free upgrade that's for sure
flew an evening flight once, and after boarding, the pilot came on and said, "this is as many people as we have on board, so if anyone wants to change seats, do it, now."
Who's seatguru? I mean for seats whom to talk?
I think its a app download to cell phone and then
Sorry to see all the rude comments here. I’m sure it’s difficult to get free upgrades but these are just tips.
Thanks for sharing all this great info. I’m a shy person and it would never occur to me to just politely ask the staff if a free upgrade was available. 😊
I’m not excepting the request to yield a conversion but why not at least take a chance!
Thanks once again ❤
Omg, can’t wait to try these!!
i personally hate when people ask if i can switch the seats with them cuz they have kids, they want to sit together and etc. if you want the desired seat - pay for it, like many people do and then you do not have to worry about it.
Fine Things, I don’t think people should get nickel and dimmed. It can be expensive to have to pay for all the kid and then pay for the seats. I am not giving up my aisle seat but I would switch my middle seat. Nothing wrong with asking so people can ask and you can say no
Not only is flying more expensive when you are buying multiple tickets for kids, therefore paying for sll those seats does make it even more so... I did all that and a flight change still shuffled around our seating and we ended up not being seated together. I had to ask people if they'd be willing to switch. I really appreciate the nonjudgemental people who don't mind switching so a family can be together... especially with kids.
@@lililululalabooboo asking is fine, I guess as long as people to not act like they are entitled for others to agree to switch . I’ve encountered some looking genuinely offended when you say no .
I don’t mind bc then I get to most likely move AWAY from other peoples’ kids that are already seated surrounding me
@@finethings2281 I agree there. No one is entitled to a “yes.”
When is the best time to bid on a bussines class? 24 hours prior to departure?
That’s typically when you get the email from the airline to do so.
another fees? isn’t possible to refunds 5,900 to expensive i need to paid off my debts? 🇺🇸 layover to thai to clark airport philippines december 21.
I did that they said no changing seats - this was with west jet - we were already in the air and there were so many empty seats …I guess there is bias
What if I already picked my seat on the end for my overseas flights
Very beautiful video 😍👏👍
Thanks! Have you tried any of these to upgrade your flying experience?
The row 13 thing is interesting. Lol one time I was at a red sox game on friday the 13th. I didnt plan this, but I was in section 13, row 13, seat 13. One of the lens popped out of the glasses in the 9th inning lol. Coincidence?
Woah! What are the chances?!
@@hopscotchtheglobe lol I had to drive home in the dark wearing my prescription sunglasses, let's just say it was a fun drive home lol
I won't fly on September 11th. 13 doesn't scare me, but maybe it should.
I'm in row 13 which is also by the emergency exit door.. extra leg room for free.
I am going to fly with my 3 years old girl next month in economy, and i have a big stress because that is a 20 hours flight including 2 hours stay . Its pretty long flight , I don’t know how i am going to manage this 😢
Check out this video I've done: ua-cam.com/video/Iqohr8w30Cg/v-deo.htmlsi=GyfcFfd6YYYfi_fj This should definitely help!
Yes, I've _never_ liked the commute, only the *destination!*
The food, especially on American carriers sucks, regardless of what class you are sitting in.
I agree that most airline food sucks. BUT I do think all the vegan meals I've gotten have been way better and some airlines have pretty good food...just not many.
Helpful tips! Can't wait to try them out 🥰🙏
Thank you! ♥️🔥
You're very welcome! Have fun getting upgraded :)
“Call the airline..” good one. 😂
I have seen Cathy Pacific intentionally not upgrade any economy passengers to premium economy, while it has at least 5 or 6 empty seats on international long haul flight. Maybe they don’t want to upset any passengers paying full price for the expensive seat ( at least $1,000 more)?
I got an upgrade to business, together with my son und husband, because I was broke my ankle in my Egypt vacation. 🙈 We flew with Turkish from Sharm to Istanbul.
But my plaster cast was checked several times for drugs. 🤷🏻♀️
Do the airlines owe you anything if they change your seat without telling you ahead of time?